Discover the forever dresses on my Harvey Nichols wish-list, ready and raring for your next RSVP
There’s an unspoken code to dressing for a wedding. You want to look fabulous, obviously—but not like you’ve tried too hard. You want your outfit to feel fresh, modern, seasonally appropriate, yet somehow remain timeless. That’s the sweet spot, and in my experience, it’s often designer dresses that manage to land it.
Case in point: the Rixo silk wrap dress I bought for a friend’s Tuscan vineyard wedding a decade ago. It still comes out every summer, still earns compliments. And then there’s my vintage Chloé number - ruffled, floral, deliciously floaty - that I’ve had since my early twenties. Older than some TikTok stars, but still looks better than most of what’s new on the high street.
The truth is, when you find the perfect occasion dress, it doesn’t date. Designer pieces tend to be cut better, wash better, and crucially, make you feel better. Yes, the price tag can sting, but divide it by the number of wears and you’ll soon feel smug. Cost per wear? Practically free. And sometimes - let’s be honest - you just have to have it.
If your summer calendar is looking heavy on celebrations, Harvey Nichols is a wonderland of wish list dresses right now.
It’s packed with wow-styles from labels that know how to make an entrance. Think romantic draping, vivid brights, sculptural florals and slinky silhouettes that will photograph like a dream - and still feel relevant in 2035.
Scroll on to discover my pick of perfect designer dresses for summer 2025 below, each one deserving of your splurge.
Solace London Trinity Crepe Midi Dress - Red
£354.00
This showstopper is a masterclass in modern minimalism - the vibrant cherry hue is bold yet refined, making it perfect for a chic city wedding. With its architectural hemline and clean silhouette, it gives confident, fashion-editor energy without trying too hard. Trust us, this is one you'll wear again and again - and not just throughout the summer either. Switch to black accessories in winter for all year round appeal.
Rixo Hayley Printed Scarf-effect Midi Dress
£182.00
Rixo has cemented its status as the wedding guest MV- thanks to its throwback prints, flattering cuts and that magic mix of fun and polish.The Hayley dress is peak Rixo: vintage-inspired, floaty, and just the right amount of extra. Crafted from silk crepe de chine with a dramatic trailing scarf, it’s perfect for weddings that call for something standout. One of those pieces that’ll feel just as special ten summers from now.
Veronica Beard Yardley Printed Chiffon Maxi Dress
£420.00
Veronica Beard is known for its polished, feminine staples with a modern twist—think classic silhouettes elevated by thoughtful details. The Yardley Printed Chiffon Maxi Dress is a shining example. With its floaty pleats and romantic print, it’s made for countryside weddings or even destination celebrations. Elegant, effortless, and guaranteed to turn heads - a brilliant alternative to traditional florals.
Taller Marmo Kempner Crepe Maxi Dress - Aqua
£387.00
You might know Taller Marmo for its fluffy feather trims, but this fringe style delivers that same drama in the best possible way. With its halter neckline and fringed scarf detail, it brings Studio 54 glamour to modern-day weddings yet the colour is so subtle and elegant. It's truly beautiful - something you'd never regret purchasing (and that makes it worth every penny).
Róhe Silk Slip Dress - Green
£230.00
The Róhe Silk Slip Dress is everything we love about a classic slip -elegant, effortless, endlessly wearable - but elevated. The rich olive green gives it a grown-up edge, while the pure silk finish feels undeniably luxe. It’s the kind of dress that works for any wedding vibe and still looks just as good years down the line.