29 Summer Mini Dresses We Love

Hemlines are on the rise this season, as the mini dress makes a return for summer 2025. If you’re in the market for something short and sweet, scroll our edit of summer mini dresses that embrace a whole host of trends, from the enduring leopard print obsession to dazzling summer sequins (yes, even in summer and very much ready for festival season), pretty pastels to vibrant rainbow shades.
Long live the midi and maxi, but let’s be honest: summer is the time to show a little leg. This season’s short hemlines offer an incredible array of choices.
Top of our list from the high street is Nobody’s Child’s chocolate brown polka dot bubble-hem frock. This dress proves you can nail multiple trends in one go, and we’re picturing it with tie-ankle sandals for a chic European city escape.
For another take on polka dots, look to Damson Madder’s Lilo mini. In another huge colour trend – buttermilk yellow – it features a babydoll silhouette and is made from 100% organic cotton (perfect for temperatures that soar about 30 degrees) and boasts the brand’s iconic shirred and bow details. It’s a true wardrobe chameleon, working equally well as a summer dress or pulled down as a skirt. Genius. Try styling it with chunky loafers and socks for an edgy twist.
If you’re looking to spend a little more, Free People has so many excellent mid-range options, we could have run a whole story on just their minis. From For Love & Lemons’ romantic, nightgown-esque Breeze dress to Colmar’s edgy, asymmetric draped body-con (hello, Y2K vibes), there’s a style for every taste.
But for a piece that promises to be a perennial summer favourite, our top pick is If Only If’s charming puff-sleeved chocolate gingham smock dress. It’s quite simply the only thing we’ll want to reach for during the next London heatwave.
Kitri’s iconic cheongsam-inspired mini now comes in a summer-friendly lemon rose print. Perfect for balmy nights dancing barefoot in the sand.
Annie’s Ibiza is the brand to know if you’re after short hemlines and hedonistic embellishment.

A pretty white sundress is what we want to wear 99% of the time on summer holidays.
White smock minis are the perfect choice for hot city days, summer festivals or sightseeing in warmer climes.
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