Casual Summer dresses are a joy to wear in the heat because they’re breezy, feminine, and an easy pull-on-and-go option. Add a bag, pair of shoes, and off you go. No topper required. 

An effective way of refreshing last year’s Summer dress is by wearing it with trendier footwear options. Casual high-heeled strappy wedge sandals and espadrilles are classic, and by no means dated. But flat and lower-heeled shoe options, in closed and open styles, seem more current at the moment. 

Choose neutrals or colours across patterns and solids. Here are the components of the ensemble: 

Dress: Think simple Summer dresses in tailored, flared or sack silhouettes. Silk, linen and cotton fabrications are extra ventilating, but blends work well too. I’ve shown a jersey fit-and-flare, a sleeveless watermelon shift, a waistless shirtdress, a fitted V-neck Grecian style, and a high-low T-shirt dress. High-low maxi dresses and strappy sundresses are other options. Remember to maintain structure by wearing voluminous dresses that do not taper back at the hem above the knee. 

Footwear: This is the crucial part. Think on trend Summer footwear like sneakers, Birkenstocks, pointy toe flats, slipper flats, loafers, ankle strap wedges, dainty thong sandals or gladiators. Sandal booties, ankle strap flats, d’Orsay flats, laceless flat oxfords, and cut-out booties are further options. Choose a colour that works with the dress. 

Accessories: Finish off the outfit with a casual tote, satchel, crossbody or upscale backpack. I chose a cognac tote because it’s extra casual, a nice break from metallic, and quite rich with just about any Summer dress. Add jewellery, watch, eyewear and hat as desired. 

I wore this outfit formula last weekend in gorgeous warm weather and loved it. I combined a boxy dark denim shirtdress sans belt with sporty white loafers and fashionable backpack. I scrunched the sleeves and added sunnies, silver watch and wedding ring. Next time I’ll wear the same look with white sneakers.