This season, summer dresses adopt a minimalist guise. Presented in a stripped-back palette of perennial black and white, the key styles of Summer 2024 spotlight subtle details and striking silhouettes, bringing creative elements to the fore. Whether packing for a warm-weather escape or dressing for an event, the monochrome dress brings a new sense of ease and simplicity to the summer wardrobe. Discover the key styles of the season below. 

THE SHIRT DRESS 

A COS signature and timeless holiday staple, the shirt dress is the answer to effortless sophistication through the warmer months – a true hero piece that seamlessly transitions from humid city days to sun-drenched getaways. A softly structured cotton-poplin style is a fail-safe option for every day, while a fluid silk version serves as the key black summer dress of the season. A heeled sandal and metallic necklace will elevate the look for evening.  

THE WHITE DRESS  

Less is more: the undeniable ease of white brings new clarity to the summer dress, putting an emphasis on clean lines and studied silhouettes. A mini dress in a TENCEL™ Lyocell and linen blend offers a simple foundation for warm-weather dressing, its pristine white hue acting as a blank canvas for endless styling possibilities. The key white summer dresses of the moment are also the most pared back, proving the power of simplicity.  

THE BLACK SUMMER DRESS 

Heightened through texture and lighter seasonal fabrics, head-to-toe black feels fresh for summer. There are endless ways to wear the versatile hue in warm weather, from flowing dresses in airy fabrics to the ultimate holiday staple, the linen maxi dress. An open back and slim halterneck straps make it ideal for balmy evenings away; wear it back in the city with buckled ballet flats.  

THE MIDI DRESS 

This season’s summer midi dresses champion clean lines and considered details, emphasised through a simple monochromatic palette. Asymmetric hems and thoughtful gathering transform a simple white cotton dress into a statement piece – one that will easily translate from seaside to city surroundings. Worn over wide-leg trousers with oversized sunglasses, a midi-length style channels ‘90s minimalism with a modern refinement. Alternatively, striking earrings and a sculptural heel will lend a sense of occasion.