What Is the Dress of Summer? It's Surprisingly Simple

Every summer, without fail, a fan-favorite dress emerges; a dress becomes the dress. During the pandemic, for instance, the strawberry dress went viral—and everyone on your Instagram or TikTok page was wearing it. Last year, sheer naked dresses were all the rage. It's no surprise that statement dresses become popular during the season, as they are the perfect, easy garment to wear during a heat wave. And given we are officially entering the summer season next week, we're currently wondering: What will the breakout summer dress of 2025 be?
According to celebrities, there are already signs of the silhouettes will reign supreme. Over the past few weeks, stars have been debuting their best summer frocks—and the consensus this year is that minimalism is back. (I mean, did it ever leave?). Simple, sleek maxi dresses—from tank dresses to slinky gowns—have been making their rounds both on the streets and on the red carpets. Compared to bold floral dresses (which are often popular this time of year), the new crop of summer sdummer whisper a sense of elegance.
Dakota Johnson
Photo: Splash News
Cardi B
Photo: Backgrid
There have been both day and night approaches to the more streamlined look. In New York City, Dakota Johnson recently stepped out in a white Khaite tank dress that was a perfect choice for elevated day wear. The square neck and calf-length hemline made it feel modern, and it's precisely the kind of timeless design you can sport for many summers to come. Ditto for Cardi B and her beige bodycon halter dress: With no embellishments or bright colors, it put all emphasis on the figure and her killer accessories. (With Cardi, that always includes a staggering heel.)
For a more formal nighttime feel, meanwhile, simple tank or slip dresses have also prevailed. At the Cannes Film Festival last month, Bella Hadid slinked her way onto the red carpet in a draped black Saint Laurent gown. Again, it was all about the open back and high slit—and less about the dress itself being overly complicated or flashy. In New York, Miley Cyrus wore a black sheer sheath dress; what it lacked in ornamentation, it made up for in drama via a totally-transparent fabrication.
Why do such simple looks feel so right for this summer? For starters, they point to the quiet mood of fashion in general right now: Rather than going super experimental, brands like The Row, Lemaire, and Khaite are all zeroing in on classic silhouettes this season. Clearly, the stealthy-chic trend is resonating, and has now ventured into summer dress territory.
Still, that doesn't mean your warm weather wardrobe has to be devoid of personality in the months to come. As these stylish celebrities have proven, add a great shoe and fun jewelry, and your look can still have a major impact. Consider these simple dresses your blank canvas—but how you style them, is when a true style masterpiece happens. Start brainstorming, Picassos.

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