While spending more than five weeks in Europe this summer, I haven’t been able to get something out of my head. On the streets of Madrid, Palma, and London, I’ve seen chic European women wearing the same exact outfit to beat the heat. Of course, I’m talking about the timeless. Summer maxi dresses have been the elegant, go-to easy outfit formula for years, but shockingly, I realized I didn’t have a single one by the time. Thankfully, overseas Zara came in clutch.
After strolling through some of Europe’s most stylish cities and spotting white summer dresses everywhere, I decided to buy my own: a simple yet pretty white flowy maxi dress with a lace trim. Since I’m itching to buy several more, I decided to round up all of my favorites for you to see (and shop!) below.
Catch a glimpse of the one anti-trend summer necessity European women reach for when the temperatures reach the high 80s. Trust me, you’ll want to add your own to your closet after seeing these jaw-dropping picks.
Solid & Striped
Robe Mi-Longue Delta
Simply stunning.
Zara
Tiered Poplin Midi Dress
Run, don’t walk— this one is on sale.
Alex Mill
Breanna Dress
Just pair with your favorite sandals for a timeless look.
Reformation
Marella Linen Dress
The puff sleeves on this one are so pretty.
Reformation
Balia Linen Dress
This dress has been sitting pretty at the top of my wish list for months.
H&M
Off-the-Shoulder Cotton Dress
Can you believe this dress is under $75?
Reformation
Percy Linen Dress
This high-neck style is an easy, go-to favorite.
Reformation
Naella Dress
I’ll never say no to a pretty Reformation dress.
Hill House Home
The Jacqueline Dress
H&M
Embroidered-Detail Camisole Dress
The embroidery details on this pick are *chef’s kiss.*
Dissh
Saskia White Linen Strapless Dress
The epitome of South of France chic.
Free People
Feeling Bonita Strappy Back Maxi Dress
Cottagecore vibes, but make it 2024.
Rixo
Patsy Lace-Trimmed Pleated Broderie Anglaise Cotton Midi Dress
This charming British brand has suddenly become one of my favorites for stunning, breezy dresses.
DÔEN
Katherina Shirred Cotton-Voile Midi Dress
Dôen’s cult-like following has convinced me that the brand’s summer dresses are some of the best on the market, and frankly, I’m inclined to agree.
H&M
Smocked-Bodice Dress
Another adorable (and affordable!) find.
Zara
Embroidered Poplin Dress
Okay, I know this dress is almost sold out, but I just had to include it after buying it (and wearing it!) in the photo above.
Vero Moda
Natali Cotton Maxi Slipdress
This dress is quite literally less than a round of post-work rooftop drinks with your friends.
Eloquii
Strapless Denim Maxi Dress
Okay, Eloquii. I see you!
Madewell
Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress
The fluttery shoulders on this one make it universally flattering.
Chelsea28
Jacquard Bow Back Cutout Maxi Dress
Aren’t you glad you kept scrolling?
H&M
Ruffle-Trimmed Cotton Dress
Zara
Frayed Jacquard Dress ZW Collection
Not your favorite simple, sleek white dress.
Mango
Straps Dress With Fringes Detail
This feels incredibly cool and chic.
Faithfull
Antibes Open-Back Linen Midi Dress
If you’re into a sleeker look like the one above, this dress would be perfect for you.
Lovers and Friends
Loretta Maxi
There’s something so timeless about a deep-V white summer dress.
Reformation
Astoria Dress Es
Another Ref find you can’t go wrong with.
Reformation
Sebastien Linen Dress Es
And another!