Parts of the UK are experiencing another heatwave, the 569th of the summer. Which does beg the question, when does it stop being a heatwave and start just being the new normal? Either way, when I was chatting to my GH colleagues about how we were going to cope in the 36-degree heat once again, the overwhelming response was ‘I'm so over everything in my wardrobe.’
In fairness, most of us have been wearing the same floaty dress or two on repeat for the past two months. So, we thought it was time we did another roundup of the best breezy dresses on the high street. With no end to the hot weather in sight, you'll still get plenty of wear out of them, and they'll make getting ready to go out into the furnace that is outside a little more fun and comfortable.
These are our top heatwave-proof buys under £120.
Hush Linen Blend Remy Pleated Midi Dress
Hush is one of our favourite spots for easy, breezy dresses and it currently has a sale on, which makes this linen blend option (with sleeves) a great buy. Top tip with Hush is to size down (unless you want it super roomy). Just add flip flops.
Alternatively, if you're looking for something that works in and out of the office, I love this elegant shirt dress, which also has pockets and an elasticated waist for comfort and effortless chic.
This gorgeous scoop-neck M&S dress is made for hot days and the chocolate brown colourway taps into one of summer's biggest trends. It has a pretty strappy back and you can dress it up with heels, a belt and a blazer for days in the office.
M&S Pure Cotton Checked V-Neck Midi Waisted Dress
M&S Pure Cotton Checked V-Neck Midi Waisted Dress
This is a dress you can wear now with sandals and into autumn with gorgeous brown leather boots. Floaty, midi and with sleeves, it ticks every box.
Damson Madder is our team's go-to for stylish summer dresses you won't see on everyone. And – I can't stress enough what a difference it makes – this one has pockets. I also love the bold magenta check, flattering square neckline and ruched bodice.
Sainsbury's TU Green Ditsy Floral Tea Dress
Sainsbury's TU Green Ditsy Floral Tea Dress
Don't discount your local supermarket when it comes to heatwave dressing. Sainsbury's TU has some real gems right now, and they punch way above their price tag. It's the lace detail on this ditsy floral midi that really makes it stand out, and you'll be able to wear this one with a knit over the top or a black blazer through autumn (dark florals are going to be big next season).
Nobody's Child Yellow Sleeveless Tiered Charlie Midi Dress
If you're in need of summer dress inspiration. Nobody's Child is another great spot on the high street. It specialises in dresses for every occasion and currently has a sale on. This sleeveless shirred bodice dress comes in a range of patterns and colourways to suit every style. It's also one of the designs the brand brings out every season, making it a timeless buy.
Sezane's T-shirt dresses are a staple in my wardrobe. I have one in black and one in khaki and they come out every year. There are also shorter A-line versions and ones with sleeves if you prefer. Fabiola!
Whistles Red Blurred Floral Crepe Dress
Find a dress with a bold, eye-catching print and you've got a one-and-done showstopping look. This Whistles dress is a huge £120 off in the summer sale and it's all about the flattering detail: the floaty cap sleeves, flared skirt, and gentle ruching across the front. This one will also work in autumn with a YSL-inspired smoking jacket and heels.
This cheery dress with blousy picnic checks is the perfect feel-good piece to help you fall back in love with summer (if this endless heatwave has just turned you into a sweaty mess). Plus, it's currently reduced in the summer sale.
I can never resist a leopard print dress (well, my surname is Lynch) and this is a slightly shorter length that's great for those who are vertically challenged like myself. It's also made from denim, which gives the flared skirt extra structure as well as vintage 50s look.
Nobody's Child Pink and Brown Polka Dot Atlas Midi Dress
And finally, because it wouldn't be summer 2026 without a polka dot, this gently flared midi dresses with puff sleeves is as striking as it is effortless. We're officially heatwave ready. Again.
