Always a wardrobe reliable, a go-anywhere summer dress is a veritable get-dressed hero. What do you need to consider when buying one? First up, length. Right now maxi and midi styles are very much in vogue for occasion dressing, but that’s not to say this season’s fling with the mini shouldn’t be explored (our styling advice is to go with a lower heel and a long-length sleeve to keep things elegant). Next up: shape. Volume is still a big trend for dresses so consider embracing an outré silhouette. It could be a puff sleeve, or a full-bodied skirt in the vein of Danish designer Cecilie Bahnsen or Irish designer Simone Rocha. When it comes to pattern, a statement print is a stalwart for summer occasion dressing. Florals reign supreme right now – take them as dainty or as oversized as you like. Polka dots are always a good option. And ginghams are popular: just ensure the fabric is formal enough that you avoid looking too beachy. Scroll below for ten do-it-all occasion dresses THE GLOSS are loving right now.

Main image: Instagram @_aje_.

Satin camisole dress, €25.95, at Zara. 

Grace sun dress, €238; www.daydress.co.uk.

Light blue chiffon midi-dress, €415; www.self-portrait.com. 

Raphaela midi-dress, Faithfull The Brand, €209; www.zalando.ie. 

Billie Blue Sky dress, €344; www.queensofarchive.com. 

White Eulalie pleated twill midi dress, Iris & Ink, €313; www.theoutnet.com.

Black cotton voluminous shirt dress, €69; www.stories.com.

Green oversized poplin kaftan dress, €99; www.cos.com.

Blue gathered cotton and silk mini dress, Matteau, €400; www.matchesfashion.com.