12 best poplin dresses for women to wear all summer long
From sleek shirt-dress silhouettes to strapless column shapes and sculptural tie details, today’s poplin dresses go far beyond the traditional button-down. Designers are reimagining the classic fabric through a modern lens, playing with proportion, volume, and colour to create pieces that feel both directional and incredibly wearable. Think pleated styles, sculptural minis, and full-skirted midis with figure-skimming drop waists.
Whether it’s styled with leather sandals and a straw tote, or whether it’s your favourite vacation dress paired with slingbacks and a top-handle bag, a poplin dress makes an excellent summer outfit, no matter the occasion. Each one in our edit offers a crisp, modern foundation for summer styling. Ahead, shop the 12 best poplin dresses for women to shop this season.
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Courtesy of Staud
Best vintage-inspired
Dôen Marianne dress
True to the brand’s vintage-inspired codes, this soft poplin midi pairs a smocked bodice with a gently flared skirt for a romantic silhouette that doesn’t feel fussy. Add leather sandals, a crochet bag, and a headscarf and it’s European-summer ready.
Sizes: XXS–XXL
Colours: red, black, green
Best black dress
J.Crew collection Cecily dress
This fitted black poplin midi leans into structure with a corset-inspired bodice and sculptural puff sleeves that bring just the right kind of drama. It’s sleek but not too serious—perfect for rooftop dinners, gallery openings, or any occasion that calls for a little extra.
Sizes: XX-3X
Colours: black
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Best gingham style
Staud Wells cotton mini dress
This gingham poplin mini is proof that short can still feel refined. With a defined waist and subtle pleating, it’s ideal for warm city days when you want to look pulled together without feeling overdressed. Pair it with ballet flats and a structured shoulder bag for a look that moves effortlessly from meetings to dinner.
Sizes: 2-18
Colours: chocolate gingham, pastel pink
Best shirt-dress
Toteme cotton poplin shirt-dress
Why not try a shirtdress in a bright butter yellow for summer instead of the usual black and white? This Toteme pick nails that clean architectural look—perfect for wearing during office hours and off-duty occasions alike. Style it with sleek mules and a cord necklace for a chic minimalist look.
Sizes: 2-16
Colours: butter-yellow
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Best bow dress
Ganni bow-embellished cotton poplin midi dress
Ganni is known for its girlish twists, and this black poplin midi is no exception. The trio of bows in front adds just the right amount of whimsy to balance the relaxed silhouette—equal parts charming and cool.
Sizes: 4-14
Colours: black
Best little white dress
Juliet Dunn embroidered cotton poplin mini dress
The ultimate LWD: short, airy, and cut to pull away from the body on the hottest summer days. Sweet embroidered details along the neckline and hem make it feel special, not boring.
Sizes: 6-14
Colours: white, red, blue mosaic
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Best maxi dress
Proenza Schouler white label Barker cotton poplin dress
A cerulean stunner with throw-on-and-go energy, this bold-hued maxi pairs an airy cut with simple straps for vacation days, rooftop drinks, or casual summer events.
Sizes: 4-16
Colours: blue
Best floral print
Ulla Johnson Paloma printed cotton poplin dress
Purveyor of modern bohemian style Ulla Johnson delivers a printed midi that’s feminine and sophisticated. With puff sleeves, pintucks, and a dreamy floral print, it’s romantic ease in every sense.
Sizes: 2-20
Colours: floral print
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Most comfortable style
Hill House Home Ellie nap dress
The brand’s cult-favourite nap dress is a core summer essential. This crisp cotton-poplin version nails the sweet spot between laid-back and polished, with just enough vintage charm in the ruffled straps and tiered skirt.
Sizes: XXXS–XXXXL
Colours: black, sunset stripe, blue hydrangea print, watercolour gingham, navy mariner’s toile and more
Best bright style
Everlane lace trim caftan dress
This sunny dress is a bolder take on the season’s butter-yellow color trend. The crisp poplin silhouette features a subtle drawstring waist and delicate eyelet detailing, striking that sweet spot between polished and playful.
Sizes: XXS–XXL
Colours: yellow, black, white
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Best mini style
Cos pleated zip-up cotton mini dress
Utilitarian meets breezy in this chocolate-brown mini dress. Clean lines, boxy pleats, and a zip-front neckline give it structure, while the airy shape keeps it easy for all-day summer wear.
Sizes: 2–14
Colours: dark brown, caramel brown, white
Best print style
Agua by Agua Bendita Mati Moriche cotton poplin mini dress
This tropical-print mini checks every box: playful, flattering, and totally versatile. Style it with trainers and a tote for daytime errands, then swap in heels and a mini bag for summer soirées.