The condensation drips from your Negroni Sbagliato, your sunglasses have permanently imprinted on the bridge of your nose and there’s a constant warmth to your skin. Ah, summer.

As the temperatures rise and everything in your wardrobe starts to feel a bit hot and heavy, turn to a summer dress. And no one does them like Australian and New Zealand labels – Alemais, Matteau, Marle, Maggie Marilyn and Sir spring to mind immediately.

This year is all about bold colours and vibrant prints. It’s the age of dopamine dressing. Cut-outs continue to trend, as do sheer styles (yes, the naked dress is back again) and maxi hems. But there’s plenty of room for the classics too: gingham, ditsy florals and stripes never fail.

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The best summer styles can be dressed up or down, depending on where you’re wearing them. And remember to pay attention to the fibres listed on the tag. Cotton, linen and silk will keep you cool, plus they’re better for the world and your wardrobe’s longevity.

Colours
When it comes to colour, cobalt blue is having a moment. Sir makes a case for the hue with its abstract-printed pieces, as do Faithful the Brand with the Bellavista Midi and Mina with its Moa dress. And Incu Collection has put much-maligned violet into the race. On the opposite side of the spectrum, orange gets a look in. For a subtle sunset take, try Camilla & Marc’s aptly named Clementine dress or Lover’s Marigold One-Shoulder style for a little extra zing. Barbiecore has well and truly staked its claim and pink continues to reign supreme. See Matteau, Maggie Marilyn and Joslin Studio for proof.

Prints
You can also check gingham off your print list with Maggie Marilyn’s You Win Again dress, The Creatures of Love dress from fellow Kiwi label Daylight Moon Studio and the Tully dress by Assembly Label. Or if stripes are more your speed, Lee Mathews, Venroy and Jac + Jack have you covered.

Florals
If you fancy florals, Alemais is leading the way with its Daisy Spliced design, while Marle’s Franca dress is updated in a subtle red print this season. Peony Swimwear’s Floret One-Shoulder Maxi arrives awash in yellow and Oroton’s Posie Print speaks the language of garden-party chic fluently.

Cut-outs
Strategic cut-outs create eye-catching silhouettes – Shona Joy, Roame, Matteau, Acler and Alemais make the case. And if you truly dare to bare, take things a step further with trending semi-sheer and woven styles. Wynn Hamlyn, Bassike and Maison Essentiele want you to show off your best briefs, although these pieces work equally well with a silk slip or swimwear layered beneath.

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