The 7 best high street summer dresses under £30 including a wedding guest dress winner and holiday hot pick
AS prices rise, finding the perfect summer dress on a budget can be tricky.
So Deputy Fashion Editor Abby McHale scours the high street for the best ones for under £30.
Best for… versatility
I CONSTANTLY talk about how much I love throwing on a midi dress – as you don’t have to think too much about your outfit, they go with multiple different accessories in your wardrobe and they can be dressed up or down, so they’ll always come in handy.
That’s exactly what this Nutmeg at Morrisons dress does. You can wear it on holiday, to the office, on a weekend . . .
There are so many options.
Plus, it’s a steal.
Best for… comfort
NEXT has some really great dresses for summer and this one is no exception.
The first thing I noticed was how comfortable it was.
The stretchy top half felt so soft against my skin.
The elastic waistband wasn’t too tight, while the flowing bottom half will keep me feeling breezy when the mercury rises.
It also has pockets – which are a great addition – and I’m obsessed with the bright green hue, too.
It just feels so summery.
Best for… style
THIS floral minidress from Very positively screams summer.
It has an exaggerated sleeve for an added detail, as well as a flattering V-neckline.
And it cinches you in at the waist, which gives a great shape.
It’s one of those dresses that will attract all the compliments thanks to its vibrant print and flattering silhouette.
Pair with gold chunky shoes for a stylish finish.
A definite winner.
Best for… glam
THE majority of under-£30 dresses tend to be casual rather than glamorous, so finding something for an evening out can be very tricky.
H&M, however, has plenty of good options.
Paired with statement jewellery and heels, this long-sleeve mini ribbed dress is ideal for heading out on the town.
It also comes in a cream and black colourway if you want a monochrome look
Best for… budget
IF you’re on the hunt for a dress that will set you back less than £15, your choices can be pretty limited, but Pep&Co – Poundland’s fashion line – delivers just that.
Considering the khaki number costs just £12, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality.
There are added details, such as buttons (which often don’t bode well for a bigger bust, but in this case were fine) and a tie-waist.
Best for… occasionwear
WHEN I put this dress on, I could not believe that it was under £30.
The fabric felt premium, the lining underneath the bust and down the middle was luxe, and I love the floral-print detail.
With a whopping seven weddings in 2024, I’m now a master at occasionwear dressing, and this dress is just the ticket.
It’s super flattering – the A-line style gives a great shape to your body.
Best for… holidays
ONLINE searches for sundresses are up 140 per cent as people prepare to jet off, but finding the perfect holiday frock is no mean feat.
This one from Primark ticks all the boxes.
Coming in at £25, it has a shirred top half, great for all bust sizes.
The flowy bottom half still keeps your shape, and cute details on the shoulders protect them from the sun.
Perfect with a pair of wedges. All I’m missing is a plane ticket to somewhere hot.