The Glossy Dress Trend That Ensures a Classy Silhouette at Every Summer Event

If your summer calendar is brimming with weddings, summer events and gatherings of the elegant ilk, and your trusty linen shorts and cotton shirts just aren’t quite cutting it for the elevated dress codes, I have to put you on to the dress trend I've seen the most stylish people reaching for this season.

Swishy, floor-grazing and rendered in a glossy finish, satin maxi dresses have become my go-to for every elevated summer occasion, and I’m far from the only one defaulting to the trend. Just this week, model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley embraced the silhouette three times over the course of a few days, styling multiple The Own Studio satin dresses for occasions on the Italian coast.

First, she opted for a flowing seafoam green design, complete with a sheer, floor-skimming cape that added extra movement and dimension to her evening-ready ensemble. Later, she switched into a yellow satin gown for a wedding celebration by the water’s edge.

Finally, I spotted the model in a light beige style that skimmed her frame, extending past her ankles. In a soft neutral tone, this dress felt incredibly sophisticated while remaining unfussy and easy to style.

While lightweight cottons and linens tend to dominate in the heat, I’ve found satin to be even more comfortable—equally airy, but with a supple softness and gentle drape that feels indulgent. Add to that its subtle sheen and the floor-sweeping length, and you’ve got a dress trend inherently elevated enough for dressier affairs. That said, I can also picture it paired with flat sandals for less fancy affairs, too.

Polished, uncomplicated and easy, satin maxi dresses are my summer styling secret. Read on to shop my favourite styles below.

Shop Satin Maxi Dresses:

Topshop

Asymmetric One-Shoulder Open-Back Midi Occasion Dress

Add a pop of colour to your summer rotation with this fresh, apple green dress.

Anthropologie

The Lily One-Shoulder Satin Maxi Slip Dress

This also comes in five other shades.

Galvan

Sienna Satin Halterneck Gown

This also comes in a rich copper shade.

This features an elegant open-back design that gives it such a special edge.

Reformation

Anaiis Silk Dress

A glossy satin dress is the easiest way to ensure an elevated ensemble.

Mango

Asymmetrical Satin Dress

The chocolate brown colour trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.

ST. Agni

Gathered Washed Satin-Jacquard Maxi Dress

Style with sandals to dress this down, otherwise pair with a sweeping satin dress.

Reformation

Tyler Satin Dress

I'm banking this for wedding season.