SHONA JOY
I’m A Fashion Editor & These Simply Chic Dresses Are The Best I’ve Ever Seen
As a fashion editor, I’m constantly looking for chic dresses that will elevate my closet. From silky midi silhouettes in timeless neutral hues to monochromatic day dresses. I’m talking about pieces that make you look instantly put together the moment you slip them on. It’s all about combining classic cuts, fabrics, and colorways, and these designers know all about that. So, to make shopping your new season favorites seriously easy, I’ve curated an edit of what I consider to be must-haves for 2024 and beyond. And, thanks to the work of Versace, Self Portrait, Tom Ford, Paco Rabanne, and more, these simple yet undeniably chic dresses will remain a staple section of your closet for countless seasons to come…
Simply Chic Midi & Maxi Dresses In Classic Black & White
When it comes to simply chic dresses with sleek long skirts, you can never go wrong with black or white designs. Firstly, they’re going to go with almost every single pair of shoes and every bag you own. Secondly, they’re easy to dress up or down and will never fall out of style. With that in mind, I highly recommend getting your hands on the Merletto short-sleeved eyelet maxi dress by Petal & Pup. This stunning ankle-length dress will be your go-to spring/summer silhouette. It’s incredibly flattering with a playful cut-out detailing on the waist, statement cape sleeves, and a floaty ankle-length skirt. Additionally, this dress will look just as good with heels as it does with flats. I’ll be styling this dress at home and on vacation with the crystal cote embellished crocheted cotton sandals by Aquazzura, and Mia rattan cross-body bag by Jules Kae.
Additionally, if it’s a sleek black midi you’re after, look no further than the Escapist maxi dress by AJE. Simple, yet with subtle sultry hints, this dress is, in my opinion, a must-have. The classic round neckline and sleeveless bodice go perfectly with the voluminous, tiered tulle skirt. Not to mention, the illusion panel at the bust makes this dress truly unforgettable. Style it with stiletto sandals and a statement clutch for dinner plans, drinks, and even black-tie events. Preferably, the Missy 110mm mesh sandals by Saint Laurent and Avenue crystal-embellished quilted velvet clutch by Jimmy Choo.
Shop more Simply Chic Dresses selected and reviewed by our expert fashion buyers and stylists
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ENGLISH FACTORY Tie Back Knit Maxi Dress
$120 -
JACQUEMUS La Saudade Longue Brodée Maxi Dress
$1,071 -
KHAITE The Bruna Off-shoulder Maxi Dress
$1,980 -
AJE Enigma Hardware Dress
$455 -
AJE Escapist Maxi Dress
$695 -
LUXELY Theo Drape Midi Dress
$188 -
PACO RABANNE Gathered Satin Maxi Dress
$950 -
TULAROSA Asa Mini Dress
$178 -
DVF Gertrude Dress
$358 -
SHONA JOY La Lune High Neck Midi Dress
$320 -
LSPACE Barcelona Dress
$161 -
PETAL & PUP Merletto Short Sleeve Cutout Eyelet Maxi Dress
$109 -
NORMA KAMALI X Revolve V Neck Rectangle Gown
$175 -
TOM FORD Cutout Metallic Stretch-knit Halterneck Gown
$4,290 -
EMILIA WICKSTEAD Pola Strapless Duchesse-satin Midi Dress
$2,650 -
MAX MARA Maremar Sleeveless Jersey Sheath Dress
$525 -
GALVAN LONDON Atalanta Beaded Midi Dress
$1,215 -
MISA LOS ANGELES Rafael Cardigan Dress
$385 -
NORMA KAMALI Sleeveless Pickleball Mini Dress
$145 -
VALENTINO Crepe Mini Dress
$4,500 -
BHLDN Hayden Strapless Stretch Crepe Midi Dress
$198 -
GABRIELA HEARST Amor Ribbed Cashmere-blend Midi Dress
$1,550 -
VERSACE Patch-pocket Double-crepe Mini Shift Dress
$2,450 -
SELF-PORTRAIT Off-the-shoulder Two-tone Crepe Mini Dress
$465
Simply Chic Dresses For Every Occasion
One of the many reasons I love simply chic dresses? They work for every possible plan on your calendar. From romantic dinner dates and drinks with friends to work events and summer garden parties. For dressier events that call for cocktail dresses or something similar, the Enigma hardware dress by AJE is ideal. Especially when styled with the Intriigo strap 105mm sandals by Giuseppe Zanotti and the small Horsebit bag by Gucci.
Finally, I think everyone needs a day dress like the gathered silk maxi dress by Paco Rabbane in their closet. Firstly, it’s simply made to go with designer mules. Secondly, this dress will look flawless with the Planet Queen crystal-embellished mules by Louboutin and Jackie small patent-leather bag by Gucci.