If you’re new here, you may not be aware that the Who What Wear UK team have a thing about dresses. Mini, midi, maxi—we’re big fans. So when a particular brand consistently serves up standout styles that are all over our IG feeds and personal wish lists, we have to share it with you, our dear readers. The brand in question this time? Free People.
Free People’s bohemian yet contemporary aesthetic is what makes its designs so successful. Right now, there are two dresses we’ve spotted that have serious appeal, both on and off-screen. They embrace the ease that we look for when searching for dresses, especially in the summer. Combine that with the on-trend details of each silhouette, and it’s no surprise that these dresses—the Dylan Midi Dress and the Onda Tube Dress, to be specific—are trending.
The Dylan is a shining example of the tank-top dress trend (a simple tank style on top with a flowy skirt on the bottom). But of course, Free People has added a stylish twist with the dropped waist. This waist style has become a key feature of high-end designers in recent seasons, but Free People has curved the design to seamlessly trace over the hips.
The Onda also embraces this dropped-waist design and billowing skirt. But instead of a tank, the Onda takes on the bandeau neckline that has been spotted everywhere this summer. The versatility of this neckline lets it embrace high and low dressing, making it just as appropriate for the beach as it is for a fancy dinner. Another standout feature that the dresses share—and something I’m personally grateful—for is that they both have pockets. Yes, pockets!
And finally, like most Free People styles, they’re offered up in a range of colours, so there’s bound to be a shade that hits for you. Keep scrolling to see how fashion people are styling the Dylan and the Onda, and to shop the trending dresses.
Style Notes: The Dylan looks great with sandals, but can also be paired with trainers, boots, ballet flats and more.
Style Notes: There’s an ease to this style that makes it perfect for summertime.
I’m obsessed with this styling.
Work, drinks, even running errands—you’ll rely on this dress for various occasions.
Celebrate brighter days with this striking pink hue.
The scoop neckline echoes the curved waist.
Style Notes: A2023 LBD update.
Style Notes: Lean into the simplicity of the dress by pairing back your accessories.
The pleating around the waist is truly excellent.
You can’t go wrong with classic black.
This style tends to run large, so size down for a perfect fit.
A subtle way to nod to Barbiecore.
This blue won me over.
Next Up: The It List: Everything Our Editors Are Buying This Month
