Tired of wearing floral midi dresses all summer long? While we've always got space in our hearts (and wardrobes) for another, I'm in dire need of a summer dress that can work for all occasions - think European summer, to stuffy days spent in the office. Essentially a dress that can work the room, and I think I may have just found it. Introducing the viral M&S Pure Cotton Bubble Hem Midaxi Dress, £49.50, which I've currently crowned as the best high-street dress for summer 2025.
If you hadn't already heard, M&S fashion is having a moment right now, especially after its recent SS25 drop. Part of M&S' new-in range, this black dress seems to have stolen not only my heart, but the rest of the fashion pack's too. Embracing the new bubble skirt trend in all of its glory, this timeless black dress goes beyond TikTok-fuelled trends, and has a longer shelf life than most trend's usual sell-by date.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
This pure cotton dress isn't just any other black dress. Complete with a trendy bubble hem finish, this chic midaxi dress includes intricate detailing including a drop waist, cut-out back, pockets and more.
Complete with a subtle bubble hem finish, this isn't the only flattering feature the dress possesses, its gathered skirt, sleeveless bodice, drop waist, and cut-out back are just some of the other details that makes this black dress not like any other little black dress. Even better, it has pockets too, making it a pretty and practical choice this season.
Closer online's fashion writer Samantha Price also noted on how she loved how the dress is available in petite, regular and tall. She said: "I tried this dress in a size UK 14 and was delighted to be able to find it in a petite fit. I instantly fell in love with it as soon as I slipped it on, and could clearly see how it could be flattering across all body types. I even posted a picture of me wearing it on my story and people have already been parading me with compliments on it. This dress is a must!"
To style, take the minimalistic approach and team with laid-back accessories when somewhere hot, such as a gorgeous raffia clutch, gold hoops and a pair of sophisticated black slip-on sandals. Or if heading somewhere fancy, or out on girls night, add some pops of red throughout the look to elevate the dress for any evening soiree.
Alternatively, if you're anything like me and love to feel polished in the office, layer up the outfit by pairing with a red or neutral cardigan or even a cropped denim jacket, and a pair of textured ballet flats (I particularly love the dark red M&S Woven Ballet Pumps). At just under £50, we suggest shopping this dress while you still can...
Main image credit: @marksandspencer_emmas, @marksandspencer_anneka and @zarahhameed/ Instagram
Christina Geggus is a Commercial Content Writer at Closer. She covers fashion, beauty, homes and anything trending. When not writing, she can be found at her favourite Blaze gym class or on long walks with her loved ones with an overpriced coffee.