You don’t need a thousand dresses this summer. You need a handful of easy, wearable ones that work hard, and Farmers has the edit to prove it. From crisp embroidery to a new animal-inspired print, the right pieces are already waiting on the rails.
Here’s what’s on my radar, and how I’d wear them…
Broderie anglaise
It’s always a good idea, and it says summer instantly. Skip the frills and look for crisp cut-work in a clean shape, where the detail is the whole point. White is the go-to for a fresh summer look, but I’m loving this burgundy midi. The tonal floral embroidery runs in a single panel down the front, set off by ladder-trim seams, and the square neckline and wide straps keep it modern. The deep wine shade gives a richness you don’t expect. Flat sandals are all it needs by day, and an easy swap to heels takes it into the evening.
The midi
Anywhere between mid-calf and ankle is the length that never lets you down. In a linen blend, poplin or fluid satin, it makes a summer essential. Proportion can be tricky, so opt for a fitted bodice and fuller skirt, and pair it with a kitten heel or ballet flat. The last touch: drape a cardigan across your shoulders when you head out.
Bambi
Leopard has had its moment. The new animal print is quieter than leopard, tiger or zebra: enter the spotted fawn. In caramel, tan and cream tones, it looks soft from a distance and unexpectedly graphic up close. Choose a slip or a bias cut and don’t over-style it. Add flat sandals and a cream cardigan over the shoulders. Keep accessories purposely simple, because the print speaks loudly enough on its own.
Brown is the new black
I’m a big fan of black, but in summer it can sometimes look quite harsh. That’s why this season I’m leaning into brown. Chocolate, espresso and mocha are the grown-up alternatives: richer on tanned skin, easier next to cream, and unexpectedly perfect with pale blue. A brown dress goes with everything and suits any occasion. It does everything the little black dress does, with more warmth.
