A perennial flower power

Summer’s most popular print is once again taking over our wardrobes. Grace Cahill explains why a floral dress in summer will NEVER go out of style

THE welcoming side- effect of warmer weather is the cheer it brings, as longer days stretch into balmy evenings and provide endless after-work opportunities.

So, what to wear? Well, a printed trophy dress is a summer staple. Simple and versatile, it still has impact and, depending on footwear, can suit either an elegant or more casual occasion.

The perfect one, remember, transcends trends because of its versatility and wearability.

Some of the dreamiest summer dresses I’ve bought over the years (that I still wear) have come from the High Street, and haven’t demanded a hefty investment.

Lightweight and easy to wear, some are full floral; others have patchwork prints. They may not be instinctively cool or trendy, but they evoke a sense of nostalgia that’s perfect for summer.

Debenhams offers a covetable range of concession designers and John Rocha’s textured floral dresses, in both flowingly long and midi-length options, deliver every season. I particularly love his monochrome large poppy print — a modern take on summer florals. These dresses play with lightness and solidity. They are sweet and feminine with ribbon straps or ruching and yet still structured enough to toughen up.

Marks & Spencer’s spring/ summer edit is a personal favourite, too. These are dresses to dress up and dance in — with espadrilles and a woven bag, or even a pair of Converse.

Monsoon is my mother’s stomping ground for summer dresses (that I usually borrow), which means I’ve always loved the effortless charm of their floaty, bohemian collections. Their delicate printed dresses are gorgeous paired with Chelsea boots.

Lastly, I discovered Irish online store iClothing via Instagram last year and was impressed with its selection of prints and symmetric silhouettes in plenty of colours. They are not the most hard-wearing of clothes, but with so many to choose from, and at such reasonable prices, you can afford to splurge on a couple to pep up your summer wardrobe.

Whatever floral dress you choose this season, just make sure it’s floaty, flattering and feels fabulous, and you’ll cherish it for years to come.