The itchy bug bites on my arm and the freckles appearing on my nose indicate that summer is back in full swing. In the city, that means we’re wearing as little as possible—but just how little is little? Enter the mini dress: the unlikely summer hero we’ll be reaching for all season. On the spring 2025 runways, the staple returned with a new attitude—sexy (but not too sexy) and super chic.

Vogue’s Favorite Mini Dresses:

• The Airy Cotton Mini: Matteau Cami cotton-poplin mini dress, $320
• The Elegant Shift: Posse Rio linen mini dress, $270
• The Easy Linen: Banana Republic linen tie-front mini dress, $120
• The Crochet Trim: Dôen Almadia crochet-trimmed ramie mini dress, $250
• The Tank Dress: Éterne Carrie dress, $290
• The Pleated Mini: Sandy Liang Millie dress, $425
• The Sporty Fit: Lululemon Align Nulu mini dress, $148
• The Lace Slip: Massimo Dutti mini dress, $180
• The Destination Dress: Missoni one-shoulder crochet-knit mini dress, $1,060

With the right shape and styling, the mini dress takes on countless personalities. At Chloé, bohemian minis, paired with wrap sandals and jewelry, felt easy and free; at Alaïa, a head-to-toe white look put the “mini” in minimalist. It’s a versatile option for whatever summer has in store—vacations, parties, even the office (with the right shoes and accessories, of course). Shop our edit of the best mini dresses and six ways to wear them, right here.

Ultra-Minimalist

As evidenced by the Alaïa runway, head-to-toe white is the simplest way to make a bold statement. Shield sunglasses and a sleek bag add extra impact.

Destination Calling!

A playful mini dress tops our packing list for every summer getaway, and this Missoni style will move seamlessly from beach to dinner. Just add two more seasonal essentials—jelly shoes and a mesh tote.

Modern Boho

Channel bohemian, but avoid going full-on festival by pairing Chloé’s floaty dress with modern accessories such as Sophie Buhai’s silver and onyx chandelier earrings and Massimo Dutti’s woven shopper.

Carrie-Coded

We’d be remiss not to mention the ultimate mini dress icon: Carrie Bradshaw. Éterne’s “Carrie” dress comes close to her famous tank dress look. Style it with micro heels and a classic Gucci bag for 2025. Don’t forget the aviators!

A Touch of Prep

Preppy style is sticking around. A pleated mini dress and studded boat shoes are a chic way in. Finish off with a satin headband and Jil Sander’s Cannolo shoulder bag in wine red.

Sporty-Chic

A workout dress polished enough to wear beyond the gym? Look no further than Lululemon’s black mini dress—made from the same buttery-soft fabric as its bestselling leggings. Pair it with sneakers and ankle socks for a cute errands look.

The Off-Duty Set

For a laid-back weekend look that’s equal parts sweet and chic, try Coucou Intimates’s dress-sweater set with The Row’s elevated pool slides. Kallmeyer’s oversized tote makes for a perfect travel extra.

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