White summer dresses are still the easiest way to look fresh in hot weather, and in 2026 the best versions are slip dresses, maxi dresses and ruffled Spanish-style pieces, styled with neutral accessories and one pop of colour. Here is how to choose and wear one.
We first wrote this guide in 2013, when petal skirts and peplums were the thing. The styling rules have aged well. The shapes have changed, so we updated them using the Spring/Summer 2026 collections.
White summer dresses: what to buy and how to wear it
| Style | Best for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Slip dress | Evenings, going out | A bolero or light jacket, metallic jewellery |
| Maxi dress | Beach and city days | Flat sandals, a straw or leather tote |
| Ruffled or polka-dot dress | Daytime, brunch | Neutral shoes, a statement earring |
| Strapless dress | Warm evenings | Neutral accessories |
| Casual cotton dress | Everyday | Sneakers or sandals |
Which white dress styles are in for summer 2026?
Slip dresses and lingerie-inspired pieces
Lingerie and loungewear worn as daywear was one of the trends of the Spring/Summer 2026 runways, covering slip dresses, bralettes and satin pyjama sets. A white slip dress is the easy way in: wear it with a light jacket by day and heels by night.
Spanish-style ruffles and polka dots
Designers showed flounces, ruffles, peplums, see-through skirts, polka dots and rose motifs. In white, these read romantic and not costumey. Our 2013 guide featured peplum dresses with metallic heels and delicate jewellery, and that pairing still works.
Maxi dresses
The maxi dress was already “an important summer wardrobe item” in our 2013 guide and it remains the most comfortable option for hot days. Wear it belted at the waist or loose.
Beach dresses and everyday dresses
A beach dress goes over a swimsuit and doubles as a city dress. A plain cotton day dress works for weekends and shopping trips, and dresses are no longer reserved for formal occasions.
How to accessorize a white dress
You can change the whole mood of an all-white outfit by switching accessories.
- Neutrals for polish: match a white dress with neutral-colored accessories for a sophisticated look.
- Belt it: add a belt at the waist, neutral brown sandals and a large brown beach tote.
- Black accents: for something more classy, pair white with a black belt, black clutch and black pumps.
- A pop of colour: a brightly coloured blazer, handbag or pair of shoes draws attention.
- Metallic shine: a bold metallic necklace or cuff bracelets add impact.
- Headbands, sun hats and sunglasses: a headband adds pattern and colour, and a sun hat protects your face and neck.
- Customize it: sew small embellishments on the neckline or under the bust.
- Going out: a bolero or shrug adds coverage on a summer night.
P.S. Wear white or nude underwear, and be careful when eating or drinking, because any little stain will show. xoxo
Keep reading
- Summer fashion trends 2013: the earlier season in full
- Top 10 best hair accessories: finishing touches for a white outfit
- Summer dresses fashion trends 2014: more dress ideas from the archive
FAQ
What shoes go with a white summer dress?
Neutral brown or tan sandals work for a relaxed look, and black pumps suit a more sophisticated outfit.
How do I accessorize an all-white dress?
Use neutral accessories for polish, a belt at the waist, or add one pop of colour in a blazer, bag or shoes. A metallic necklace or cuffs add shine.
Are white slip dresses in style for 2026?
Yes. Lingerie and loungewear worn as daywear, including slip dresses, was one of the trends of the Spring/Summer 2026 runways.
What should I wear under a white dress?
Wear white or nude underwear so nothing shows through the fabric.
How do I stop a white dress from staining?
Be careful when eating and drinking, because any small stain shows on white fabric.
Last updated: October 2026.
Liked the article? Make sure you also read: [button color=”purple ” size=”small” link=”https://www.alux.com/top-10-best-hair-accessories/” target=”blank” ]Top 10 Best Hair Accessories 2013 | Trends[/button]
This article was originally written in 2013 by Andreea. You can visit her blog here: [button color=”orange” size=”small” link=”http://andreeamaier.tumblr.com” target=”blank” ]Andreea’s blog[/button]
