The fashion industry doesn’t take holidays. There’s no Christmas break, no days off to lie in the sun when summer arrives, and no weekend lie-ins. By this point in the year, with more than half of 2023 behind us, the fashion industry has done more than a calendar year’s worth of work, producing look after look — and many of us don’t get the time to enjoy them. As the seasons begin to change, the last of the warm days slip by, and the autumn/winter collections take to the runways, let’s look at some of the most incredible designer dresses of the year so far.
Best Designer Dresses of 2023
River Island
River Island is no new kid on the block. This label has been around since 1948 and continues to offer up dress after designer dress that tops the charts. Here are our picks for 2023.
Midi Dress in Silver — Plus Size
Did somebody say disco? This mid-length dress is Studio 54 perfect and ready to commit murder on the dance floor. This metallic satin number falls and flows across the skin, accentuating the waist and clavicles. The cowl-neck front and bow detailing on the back add extra drama to your night out. Choose this dress if you’re looking to be the centre of attention.
Midi Dress Tiger Print
This kimono-style dress is cut to mid-calf. The dark-hued tiger print manages to remain neutral, meaning that many handbag and shoe combinations will pair well with this piece. The print isn’t too busy to be formal and not too over the top to be casual, meaning this versatile outfit will work hard in your wardrobe. Cinch your waist in with the front tie and be the life of the party wherever you wear this dress.
ASOS Edition
ASOS is a giant in the fashion industry, and they’re known particularly well as a brand that never fails to include women of all sizes.
Eva Embellished Cami Dress in White — Plus Size
Though this dress is listed online as a wedding dress, the Eva is so much more than one thing. Fit for a queen’s wedding day — if that’s your path — the Eva will wake you from promises to the afterparty. We don’t recommend donning the Eva for a wedding if you aren’t the blushing bride, but this dress will work for several other occasions, too. Since the dress is embellished all over, we recommend a simple shoe and minimal jewellery to complete the look.
Sequin Cutwork Mini Dress With Faux Feather Trim in Pink/Silver
This is a true statement piece, so be prepared to get admiring glances wherever you go. The body of the dress screams Art Nouveau with its snaking cutout patterns and boat neckline. The silver sequins add interest without overpowering the look. The skirt is a baby pink faux ostrich feather and chic enough to make Carrie Bradshaw jealous.
Topshop
Topshop is a high-street brand that offers a wide range of options, from jeans to the perfect date-night dress.
Open Back Gathered Waist Tie Dye Midi Dress in Black — Plus Size
At first glance, this chic bohemian number presents as a little bit conservative. A lantern sleeve and high neckline mean that this dress works for those who don’t like to display a lot of arm or cleavage, but the cutout at the back means that there’s a little surprise waiting for onlookers when you do a twirl. A cinched waist adds a little drama and shows off your gorgeous figure.
Lace Trim Deep V Midi Dress in Mustard
Live your bumblebee dreams, but in a rockstar way, in this exciting, slinky little dress. The black lace shoulders and insert offer an anchor for the dress and allow you to make the look a little grungy with a combat boot. The slinky, crinkled skirt leans towards a 90s cut and hugs your body in all the right ways. If you feel like dressing the dress up a little, ditch the boots and add a strappy black kitten heel instead.
Goddiva
Goddiva is here to deliver the glam for your nights out. This is the brand to turn to if you aren’t afraid of embracing your feminine charms.
Wrap Front Maxi Dress With Flutter Sleeves in Black — Plus Size
Flatter a full figure and generous bust in this sweeping, Scarlet O’Hara-worthy formal dress. A v-neckline and ruched fabric over the bust offer a figure-hugging shape while keeping enough covered to hang onto the mystery. The waist is fitted with a faux wrap for cinching purposes — don’t be afraid of an hourglass figure!
Embroidered Mesh Midi Dress in Black/Silver
Go dark and ethereal in this full-skirted fairytale dress. Embrace your inner villain with a black and silver number worthy of the Black Swan and swish your way through any formal event. This dress is made with stunning silver embroidery. The organic shapes snake up the dress from mid-skirt to mid-bodice, adding interest and eye-catching design.
Wrap Up
Choose from these incredible designer brands and their designer dress offering when you step out on the town, head to a wedding, or on a special date this year. We can’t wait to see what’s on offer for the rest of 2023.