What to Wear on Summer Bank Holiday 2025?

It’s almost here—summer bank holiday 2025. The long weekend that everyone in the UK actually looks forward to. Whether you're heading to a garden party, a family BBQ, a beach day with the girls, or that last-minute city break, here're our best dresses that can be worn throughout the seasons.

Let’s get into it.

In this article:

  • For the Garden Party or Outdoor Brunch

☀️ 1. For the Garden Party or Outdoor Brunch

You know the type—fresh-cut flowers, Prosecco in the sun, and the possibility of grass stains (we've all been there).

Style goal: breezy, elegant, and camera-ready.

✅ What Works:

  • Floral midi dresses in breathable fabrics like chiffon or cotton blends.

  • Pastel tones like blush pink, lavender, or lemon yellow (they pop beautifully in natural light).

  • Wrap dresses—ultra flattering and easy to sit/stand in without fuss.

👗 Our Picks:

light blue floral midi
halter floral chiffon midi

🍗 2. For the BBQ Bash

Casual, but not too casual. You still want that one cousin to say, “You always look put together.”

Style goal: comfy-chic with personality.

✅ What Works:

  • Smocked mini dresses—easy to move in and a dream to style up or down.

  • Boho maxi dresses with spaghetti straps and subtle cut-outs.

  • Bold colours like terracotta, coral, or emerald green to stand out (without upstaging the host).

💡 Pro Tip:

Pair your dress with white trainers and a straw bag. It’s 2025’s version of “I just threw this on” but nailed it.

👗 Our Picks:

Black Chili Print Mini Dress
Cap Sleeve Ruched Mini Dress in Brown Gingham

🏖️ 3. For the Beach or Seaside Getaway

If your bank holiday plans include sea breeze and sandy toes, skip the denim shorts and go for effortless glamour.

Style goal: easy to layer, moves with the wind, perfect for golden hour.

✅ What Works:

  • Maxi dresses with high slits or side ties—great over a bikini or with flat sandals.

  • Tie-back halter styles that double as day-to-night wear.

  • White, teal, or ocean blue hues to channel coastal vibes.

💡 Quick Fix:

Bring a linen shirt or cropped denim jacket—British evenings get chilly real quick.

👗 Our Picks:

Kimchi Blue Sienna Maxi Dress
Angel Maxi Dress

🌆 4. For a City Break or Dinner Out

Maybe you're hopping on a train to London, exploring Liverpool’s docks, or just enjoying rooftop cocktails in your own city.

Style goal: urban sophistication meets “I’m on holiday”.

✅ What Works:

  • Satin slip dresses (so hot right now—and always classy).

  • Dark florals or bold solid hues like wine red or navy for evening drama.

  • Asymmetrical hems or one-shoulder styles to elevate the look.

💡 Insider Tip:

A low bun, gold hoops, and strappy sandals = instant city-goddess mode.

👗 Our Picks:

Cream Tie Front Penelope Midi Dress
Satin Drape-Detail Slip Dress in Pink

👯♀️ Bonus: If You're Hosting or Attending a Big Family Do

You need something a little dressier—but still relaxed. Something that lets you mingle, serve drinks, and eat cake without tugging your hemline every five minutes.

✅ What Works:

  • A-line dresses with structured bodices and floaty skirts.

  • Peplum or ruched styles that flatter every body type.

  • Classic jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or ruby.

👗 Our Picks:

pretty FAYE navy
Black Spotted Sweetheart Stretch Midi

You don’t need 10 new outfits to feel stylish this August—just one or two go-to dresses that make you feel confident. 

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