Beach Dresses That’ll Make You Want A Holiday Right Now

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Beach dresses are totally underrated in our opinion. What with bikinis, swimsuits, summer sandals and floral dresses, they tend to fall quite low on the holiday wardrobe packing list. Sometimes, they're even completely forgotten.

However, that's a big mistake if you ask us, because they can be big game changers for your beachside style. Pick the right shape and print and it'll elevate your swimsuit in a second.

An simple black kaftan worn over a one-piece is a great minimalist option, and of course you can't ever go wrong with a tropical print on holiday.

This season's styles pack in the details too. From tassels to embroidery and beading, they're anything but boring.

It's also worth considering a style that doubles up as evening wear as well, which saves you nipping back to your room to change for pre-dinner cocktails. Think pleated maxi dresses or off-the-shoulder broderie anglaise frocks.

We're loving the sheer fabrics which mean you can flash your swimwear underneath, but if you prefer a but more coverage, then there are some great options in light cotton too.

In terms of accessories, less is more if you're opting for prints, but if you're colour blocking, a pair of chunky earrings is the way to go.

For daytime, flat sandals with pom poms or espadrilles are the obvious combination, but for evening, swap them for metallic sliders or heels.

So whether you're planning your next beachside holiday or planning on catching a few rays in the garden (hey, it's allowed), flick through our edit of this season's best beach dresses below.

Dorothy Perkins botanical print dress

This style is too pretty to only wear on the beach. Team with wedges or a nude shoe.

Shop now: Botanical print dress for £18 from Dorothy Perkins

Evans Aztec trim kaftan

A kaftan is an easy winner when it comes to covering up on the beach, and we love this simple Aztec print one.

Shop now: Aztec trim kaftan for £28.80 from Evans

White Stuff printed beach dress

This flattering cover-up is perfect for going from beach to bar.

Shop now: Coco printed beach dress for £29.95 from White Stuff

M&S maxi beach dress

Flirty florals for a relaxed beachside look.

Shop now: Maxi beach dress for £29.50 from M&S

French Connection maxi dress

The washed-out colour palette on this dress makes is perfect for summer, and makes elegant enough to wear for dinner al fresco too.

Shop now: Miley beach maxi dress for £29 from French Connection

French Connection wave beach maxi dress

Don’t forego animal print just because you’re on holiday.

Shop now: Wave beach maxi dress for £37 from French Connection

Zara embroidered mini dress

This embroidered mini dress is bang on trend.

Shop now: Embroidered mini dress for £39.99 from Zara

Celuu Cordelia stripe maxi dress

Bold stripes are a key trend this season, and this maxi dress is the stylish way to do them.

Shop now: Celuu Cordelia stripe maxi dress for £69 from John Lewis

Needle & Thread cross stitch cotton dress

The delicate embroidery on this dress is inspired by traditional Hungarian patterning.

Shop now: Cross stitch cotton dress for £165 from Needle & Thread

Paloma Blue Hawaii dress

The subtle smocked waistband shape makes this dress a little more stylish than your average beach dress.

Shop now: Hawaii dress for £195 from Paloma Blue

Elizabeth and James Ellison dress

This stylish pleated dress will work well with both flat sandals and heels come evening.

Shop now: Elizabeth and James Ellison dress for ££454 from Saks Fifth Avenue

Finisterre Butson tee dress

Wear this with a light chambray shirt for a relaxed summer look.

Shop now: Butson tee dress for £45 from Finisterre

March11 Kilim maxi navy dress

This March 11 dress will make you the talk of the beach - chic and stylish, you are onto a winner.

Shop now: March11 Kilim maxi navy dress for £1,145 from March 11