From a polka dot mini to a gingham midi and a floral maxi, I tested three high street summer dresses from M&S, Next and River Island — and the winner blew me awayEmily Sleight Affiliate Content Editor and Sarah Tulloch Senior Affiliates Writer
11:55, 09 Jun 2026
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
I absolutely loved the Next dress
Searching for the ideal summer dress can feel quite daunting, given the overwhelming number of choices available in countless styles and patterns. M&S, Next and River Island represent three reliable high street alternatives, so I embarked on a mission to uncover three comfortable, airy options that work for both casual and dressy occasions.
Whether you’re seeking a holiday number to pair with some sparkly sandals, or something special for an event like a summer wedding, these three picks immediately grabbed my eye.
I was so taken with one of my high street discoveries that I snapped it up and donned it for an evening wedding celebration. Continue reading to discover my top choice.
M&S Pure Cotton Polka Dot Mini Cami Dress – €34
This dress is absolutely perfect for hot holidays thanks to its remarkably light fabric. It features a breezy design, but I did worry that it wasn’t particularly flattering because of its fit.
If you’re planning to potter about on holiday, tuck into a hearty meal and sip a few cocktails, then this is an ideal choice for dealing with bloated bellies. It’s been flagged as ‘selling fast’ and I’m completely smitten with the on-trend polka dot pattern. On the M&S website, the complete product description states: “Add playfulness to your look with this pure cotton cami dress.
I loved the breezy material
It has a relaxed fit for an easy-breezy feel with frilled shirring on the straps and square neckline. An exaggerated polka dot print and mini hem complete the summery style. M&S Collection offers easy wardrobe staples that blend classic and contemporary design.”
The pure cotton fabric is ideal for balmy conditions, and I’d likely opt for this piece on a summer getaway rather than for a formal event. It’s available in petite, regular and tall fits.
Next Blue Gingham Bandeau Shirred Body Midi Dress – €58
I loved the colour and the fit was flattering
I was so taken with this dress that I had to purchase it. The shade was absolutely gorgeous and I found the silhouette complemented my shape nicely, despite typically avoiding longer styles due to my 5’3 height, I really liked this one.
The brilliant aspect of this dress is how versatile it is – you could pair it with trainers for a relaxed summer outing or a picnic, or elevate it with sandals while away. I chose to accessorise this dress with gold heels and a red lip for an evening wedding reception and received numerous compliments.
It was an ‘alternative’ choice that remained comfortable, which proved a lifesaver after several glasses of wine. I selected the size 12 which I’d describe as spot on, although I did catch myself adjusting the shirred bodice while dancing, which wasn’t a major concern for me. The dress comes with pockets which I’m absolutely loving, but don’t let that relaxed feature deceive you, as I wore this number for a special event and felt incredibly confident.
On the Next website, the complete product description states: “This shirred bandeau dress offers a flattering and flexible fit, making it a versatile choice for warm-weather styling. The inclusion of side pockets adds a practical touch for keeping small essentials close at hand.”
River Island Cream Floral Embellished Maxi Dress – €92
It was flattering on my figure
This dress is the epitome of poolside glamour, boasting lovely glittery embellished detailing and was completely different to the other dresses I sampled. It’s not typically my style, but I was captivated by the distinctive pattern and aesthetic.
Featuring floral embroidery, the dress features a flattering V-neck and is sleeveless. The shirred waistband proved really flattering around my middle and the fabric was light and airy making it perfect for warmer conditions, reports the Liverpool Echo.
My sole gripe with this dress would be that the embellished elements were slightly scratchy on the back. Everything else about this piece was gorgeous, and I think it’s a really vibrant design.