Wedding season is fast approaching, and I say that because personally, it's the only time I am actively hunting for a dress to wear. As a former pants only person, my skirt and dress repertoire is quietly growing, and the journey is admittedly quite fun. For those who find dress shopping extremely not fun, we're rounding up where to buy dresses based on your personal needs and our personal opinions. Whether it's a sundress for summer or a formal situation for a formal situation, below, is a round up of the best places to shop for dresses.
For the classics: Net-A-Porter
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For those who are looking for a wide range of classic options, Net-A-Porter is essentially a one-stop-shop for dresses. From bridal gowns to casual mini dresses, their offering ranges from 4XS to 5XL with both luxury and more accessible options, especially during their famous sale season.
For going out: SSENSE
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While SSENSE is known for its expansive range of dresses for all occasions, the e-tailer excels at going-out dresses that have a point of difference, thanks to SSENSE's commitment to celebrating both luxury fashion and emerging independent designers. Once again, don't sleep on the sale section.
For secondhand finds: The RealReal
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Searching for something archival? If The RealReal doesn't have it, it will have the next best thing. With a huge archive of authenticated secondhand designer pieces from 2021 collections to 2001 Gucci by Tom Ford, The RealReal's comprehensive search features mean sifting through pages and pages of designer dresses is no longer a scary and overwhelming activity. Plus, buying secondhand is always a win for the planet.
For the perfect cut: Christopher Esber
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There's a reason why Christopher Esber is the designer everyone flocks to for a new dress to wear to a special occasion, and it's not because he's known for his pants (which are also actually some of the best). For modern options that are cut to fit like a glove, Christopher Esber's dresses have gone viral multiple times because, in short, they make people feel extremely good. Our advice? start with the ribbing and thank us later.
For considered resort wear: MyChameleon
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A local favourite e-tailer is Sydney based online collective, MyChameleon, which is favoured by many for their considered edit of styles from independent brands. From Dion Lee to Jacquemus and Matteau, you're likely to find a range of options here.
For securing first: Moda Operandi
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Moda Operandi, one of the biggest luxury retailers in the world, has a unique function that sets it apart: the Moda Operandi Trunk Show. The retail giants Trunk Show allows shoppers to pre-order collections before they are brought to market to gain access to pieces long before they have a chance to sell out. However, if you're in a position where you can't wait months for a dress, they have a large selection of ready-to-wear pieces available to shop, too.
For sustainable options: Reformation
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For dresses made from low-impact materials, rescued deadstock fabrics, and repurposed vintage clothing, Reformation is a clear choice. With a range of sizes, styles, and categories to shop from, Reformation captures a classic, laid back LA spirit in dresses that reduce planetary harm.
For the bride: MyTheresa
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And the bride wore MyTheresa! For those looking for a special, modern bridal option, online retailer MyTheresa has a sprawling selection from suits to structural dresses to shop. If you're a guest, there are plenty of options to shop, too.
For evening: Khaite
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Because we never met a Khaite dress we didn't like. While day dresses aplenty at Khaite, where their offering truly excels is in the evening department, where fluid chiffons and shirred off the shoulder jersey are available to shop alongside column dresses and ballerina fits. For a chic option that will never get tired, Khaite is one to consider.
For plus size: The Iconic
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While many of the listed retailers carry sizes beyond an XL, no one has an affordable and size expansive range quite like The Iconic. The best part? Once you've found a few options that might work, same day delivery means you can try on promptly from home to help make the decision on the one.
For affordable basics: The Frankie Shop
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European retailer The Frankie Shop is the perfect destination for simple, pared back basic dresses that tick many boxes, including comfortability. Whether its from their in-house brand or a label we love, it's always a safe bet.
