When it comes to dresses, there are those of us who absolutely live in them and others who just can’t seem to make them work. Sure, they’re easy to throw on for a night out or for dinner with friends, but when it comes to a more casual, daytime look a whole new approach is required. Which is why so many find jeans a much easier go-to…
But what if we told you that the world of daywear dresses actually requires the simplest formula of all? Unlike eveningwear – which welcomes everything from minis to maxis, slips to serious gowns, silk to chiffon, cotton to linen – there’s one style of dress that’s not only appropriate for just about every day but *also* universally flattering.
We are, of course, referring to the milkmaid dress.
While you may not have known until 0.5 seconds ago that that’s what this style is called, you’re no doubt familiar with these dresses; if not from your own wardrobe then certainly from your Instagram feed.
Puffed-sleeves, square – or sweetheart – neckline and usually mid-length (although the minis are also super cute), the milkmaid dress has been the unofficial sponsor of summer dressing for the last couple of years, but did you also know that it’s a great transitional piece as we move from summer – if you can call it that? – into autumn.
While you may know it best worn with a pair of sandals and SPF, this dress is also incredibly chic when paired with a boot – particularly a cowboy boot, but we know those can be divisive – and a cropped jacket that finishes right where the usually-shirred waist of the dress does.
Of course, being one of the most popular and flattering styles around, the options are seemingly endless on both the high street and designer ends of the spectrum. Fear not, however, as we’ve done all the whittling down for you, and have come up with our edit of the 28 best milkmaid dresses worth snapping up pronto…
For more from Glamour UK’s Fashion Editor Charlie Teather, follow her on Instagram @charlieteather.