10 best slip dresses for throwing on this summer and beyond

Best: Overall

Rating: 9/10

Owing to intricate lace detailing, silk-covered buttons and its faint floral motif, this delicate dress feels like a vintage gem (but brand new, of course). It’s flatteringly fitted around the waist and hips, though not at all restrictive, while the elegant split hem flits around for added movement (with just enough leg peeking through).

The coral hue was richer than we expected, and we loved the plunging neckline and lace below the bust, which we felt added definition and interest – a nice change from super-simple styles. Strappy heels would be ideal for dressing up the look, such as for a summer wedding, while for festivals and nights out we’d reach for a chunky boot – a perfect contrast to the softness of the dress.

Best: For simplicity

Rating: 8/10

Less is more with this simple slip. Owing to its neutrality and slightly wider straps, we can see this becoming a year-round staple, whether you’re dressing down with layers or vamping up with statement earrings for summer soirées. Perfect with strappy heels, wedges or dad sandals à la lazy summer Sundays, throw an oversized white shirt over the top once the weather cools off, or pair with a fitted polo neck sweater (or loose white Tee) for a slinky casual workwear fit.

A possible gamechanger if you prefer wearing a bra but don’t want it on show, you’ll appreciate the thicker straps here, while the scoop back is high enough to cover the bra strap. Granted, Ghost’s dresses are on the pricier end of the high street but, given its versatility, we think this slip is well worth the investment.

Best: Double-layer slip

Rating: 8/10

This wafty mini boasts a double-layer concept, and we’re obsessed with it. Floating over a slightly sheer black slip into a relaxed fit, the faded green chiffon is crinkled with visible seams for a faintly grunge and utilitarian feel.

The piece de resistance? The Calvin Klein monogram adds interest by the waist, and both the straps are adjustable. A little editorial, a little sporty, both of the layers can be worn separately, but you’ll need to layer with a Tee or long-sleeved polo, given both are pretty sheer. Although obviously, they’re best worn together – as we said: obsessed.

Best: For pearlescent grunge

Rating: 8/10

Famed for gothic prints and moody tones, this silk blend dress is AllSaints’s answer to the slip dress – grunge in a wash of pearlescent pink, purple and peach.

What really struck us was the glossy finish, which is down to the silk and Ecovero viscose blend (a more sustainable viscose alternative), while the lining is made of entirely recycled polyester. It’s worth noting that the AllSaints logo has been incorporated into the print – it’s repeated across the fabric but it’s teeny, and we didn’t mind it.

The dress itself falls in a casual fit, skimming the body while the elegant back dips just below the bra line. For drama, contrast the pearly hues with a black pleather jacket and big ol’ chunky boots.

Best: For glamour

Rating: 9/10

Liquid-smooth in deep navy blue, we felt incredibly luxurious while slinking around in this – red carpet meets cocktail bar, the piece is actually relatively affordable given its high-end look and feel.

Our tester finds that cowl necklines can sometimes fall awkwardly on them – here, though, the fabric falls and folds in perfectly, introducing a little extra movement for enhanced shimmer.

There’s no denying this dress was designed for soirées and showstopping moments, but for officewear, try swamping it in an oversized polo neck jumper and boots to dilute the glamour.

Best: For dopamine dressing

Rating: 7/10

All whimsical silhouettes and Seventies flair – think puff sleeves, florals and oversized collars – this independent women-led label is making an effort to be more sustainable, from working with family-owned factories to planning to move to biodegradable packaging. Everything is vegan, and the brand plants a tree for every order placed.

Flower power meets Y2K, the butterfly print on this slip dress made from silky-smooth polyester felt noticeably lightweight and cool to flutter around in. The tie-cross back adds interest to the already sweet aesthetic, while in terms of pattern, we haven’t seen much else like this one – a real stand-out piece. We can’t wait to pair it with chunky retro platforms.

Best: Little black dress

Rating: 7/10

The classic LBD is a classic for a reason – case in point is this dinky number. Taking inspiration from the seminal Nineties slip, the slightly tailored fit around the waist and upper back feels effortlessly flattering, with the slightly thicker material veering away from super-slinky fabrics for something more substantial.

A little black dress this may be, but if you own a million and one already, it’s also available in a range of hues – from soft sky blue and lilac to navy and olive green – if you fancy a pop of colour.

In terms of styling, think knee-high boots and a statement jacket for festivals and nights out, or team it with chunky boots and a thick, oversized cardigan for warming things up come the winter.

Best: For going casual 

Rating: 9/10

OK, we’ve gone for another Calvin Klein dress, and despite its simplicity and pared-back look, it’s exactly that “I just threw it on” feel that makes this dress stand out. We just couldn’t resist popping its mixture of casual and sporty-chic in our final edit.

The polyester is slightly less glossy than other dresses we’ve tried, which only helps to build that everyday effortlessness – a little less cocktail bar and little more coffee runs and balmy pub gardens. And, to be quite frank, we’re all for it.

Understated and minimal, the V-neck silhouette lends this midi especially well to layering, while the side slit creates easy movement. The slightly relaxed but flattering fit skims the body and brushes mid-way down our calf, and the adjustable straps mean choosing where the dress falls on your body. Elevate the look with a pair of loafers or clogs.

Best: Ruched design

Rating: 8/10

LA-born Reformation once only sold vintage clothing – and its own clothing line is still now intertwined with sustainable practices, including actually presenting its garments’ carbon footprint, while the climate-neutral brand pledges to become climate positive by 2025.

Its entire collection is sublime, but we really love the vintage look of this pearlescent midi. Perfect for a wedding in faded sky blue, there’s no mistaking its quality, with 100 per cent silk that feels lightweight and liquid-smooth.

Cinching in slightly below the bust, it creates definition and shape without being form-fitting, and completely conceals bra straps if that’s something you’re taking into account.

This isn’t a budget buy by any stretch, but it does feel like something you’ll really treasure.

Best: For recycled materials

Rating: 8/10

We love Omnes for its commitment to sustainability, but you’d better believe style and wearability haven’t been left behind. Another little black dress that’s far from ordinary, this mini is made from 100 per cent post-consumer recycled satin polyester (while the labels are from recycled plastic bottles).

Not too dinky for a mini, the hem brushes mid-thigh, while spaghetti straps and a slightly square cowl neckline feels bang on trend. Really, though, it’s the tie-up back that steals the show, and it can be tightened for a more cinched in look that doesn’t feel too tight or restrictive.

For a pop of colour, you can also opt for a punchy fuchsia-pink hue (£49, Omnes.com). Team it with a statement clutch and strappy heels for a strikingly simple going-out ensemble.