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mini dresses
& OTHER STORIES, MASSIMO DUTTI, COS

OK, so minidresses are back. Here’s how we’re going to handle it

Don’t panic. We can get through the return of the minidress with some clever styling

By Lauren Goodwin-Grafton

Yes, the minidress is making its comeback, but before you scroll past thinking this isn’t quite the trend for you, wait, hear us out. The seasons mini’s silhouettes are far from micro, like the ones your teenager might wear, or the leggy Mary Quant styles you rocked in the swinging 60s if you wore them the first time around.

With that said, we can appreciate your apprehension. We’ll admit it, here in the GH office you’ll usually find us in our modest midi lengths, too, most of us not quite brave enough to bare all despite the souring temperatures. But recently something’s changed in us, and we have the high street to thank.

Our edit hopes to convince you of two things. One, it’s time to reconsider tackling this tricky dress length; and two, the minidress isn’t reserved for younger wardrobes – if worn with enough confidence and flair, age truly doesn’t matter. This isn’t about ‘dressing your age’ – it’s about dressing in style.

Let’s talk less about the length and more about the cut, the fabric and the styling technique.

Firstly, A-line is ageless, so choosing a silhouette that flares slightly below the waist is key. We’ve found a classic linen buttoned-up style at Cos, and a trans-seasonal £40 must-have from Uniqlo that will work through into autumn layered with a shirt or polo neck underneath.

Alternatively, opt for a sleek tunic style that falls loosely or belts at the waist. The flattering shape will skim rather than cling, essentially, over tums and hips, allowing for a confidence-boosting fit.

Otherwise, its layering versatility means it’ll double up over trousers or jeans if the leggy look isn’t for you. We recommend M&S’s cotton denim minidress – we’re pairing it with western boots – or Sézane’s simply cut Sole dress if you have a bigger budget to play with.

You’ll notice much of our curated edit boasts long sleeves, which add balance to shorter styles and modesty if baring too much skin is a total turn-off or you don’t like revealing your arms.

Massimo Dutti’s relaxed linen dress is relaxed, effortless and nods to a free-spirited boho aesthetic, while Monsoon’s boxy denim tunic offers structure and shape, leaving you without that exposed feeling.

Styling-wise, the mini, it appears, is a marvellous canvas. Throw in an accessory such as a silky neck scarf, or a long pendant necklace, or add layers for extra modesty or warmth. But, if we’re honest, you don’t really need to show much leg – just pop on a pair of knee high boots, or tights come autumn.

Here’s how to embrace the mini. On your terms only...

1

Amanda Cord Short Dress Navy

Amanda Cord Short Dress Navy
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Amanda Cord Short Dress Navy

Credit: Boden
2

Tan Faux Suede Sleeveless Shift Dress

Tan Faux Suede Sleeveless Shift Dress
2

Tan Faux Suede Sleeveless Shift Dress

Credit: Tu
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3

Pure Cotton Denim V-Neck Mini Waisted Dress

Pure Cotton Denim V-Neck Mini Waisted Dress
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Pure Cotton Denim V-Neck Mini Waisted Dress

Credit: Marks & Spencer
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Sole Dress

Sole Dress
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Sole Dress

Credit: Sézane
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5

Asymmetrical knitted dress with strap

Asymmetrical knitted dress with strap
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Asymmetrical knitted dress with strap

Credit: Mango
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Nara Denim Tunic Shirt Dress Natural

Nara Denim Tunic Shirt Dress Natural
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Nara Denim Tunic Shirt Dress Natural

Now 60% Off
Credit: Monsoon
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7

Double-Faced Mini Dress

Double-Faced Mini Dress
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Double-Faced Mini Dress

Credit: Uniqlo
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Buttoned Linen Mini Dress

Buttoned Linen Mini Dress
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Buttoned Linen Mini Dress

Credit: COS
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9

Utility Mini Shirt Dress

Utility Mini Shirt Dress
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Utility Mini Shirt Dress

Credit: COS
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100% Linen Short Dress

100% Linen Short Dress
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100% Linen Short Dress

Credit: Massimo Dutti
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11

Ellie Mini Pinafore Dress

Ellie Mini Pinafore Dress
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Ellie Mini Pinafore Dress

Credit: Nobody's Child
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Sailor-Collar Mini Dress

Sailor-Collar Mini Dress
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Sailor-Collar Mini Dress

Credit: & Other Stories
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13

Burgundy Short Cord Pocket Dress

Burgundy Short Cord Pocket Dress
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Burgundy Short Cord Pocket Dress

Credit: Albaray
14

Binny Charcoal Grey Tweed Pinny Dress

Binny Charcoal Grey Tweed Pinny Dress
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Binny Charcoal Grey Tweed Pinny Dress

Credit: FatFace
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