It’s my job to find the best fashion picks on the high street – here are nine spring dresses to buy now
With brighter mornings and longer evenings on the way, now is the perfect time to refresh the wardrobe. From throw-on-and-go midis to holiday-ready minis, the high street is brimming with affordable spring fashion buys that look far more expensive than their price tags suggest.
As a fashion writer, it’s my job to hunt down the very best of the new-in styles from the top UK retailers, including Marks and Spencer, Next, New Look and more. The best part? Shoppers don’t have to spend a fortune to tap into this season’s biggest trends – all of my picks come in under £60, with some even starting below the £30 mark.
Whether it’s for garden parties, Easter Bank Holiday gatherings or everyday wear, we’ve found something for every occasion and style. Think puff sleeves, gingham checks, ditsy florals and flattering shirred waists, with colourful and more muted palettes also catered to.
Here are nine of the best spring dresses under £60 from some of the UK’s favourite retailers.
M&S Gingham Puff Sleeve Midi Waisted Dress – £40
Gingham is forever a spring favourite, and this puff-sleeve midi from Marks and Spencer is set to be a hit for 2026. Each year the retailer seems to release a piece that goes wild on social media, and this could just be it. Designed in a regular fit with a flattering smocked bodice, it gently defines the waist before falling into an elegant midi-length skirt. The voluminous short sleeves add a fashion-forward feel, while the keyhole button fastening at the back keeps the finish neat.
Available in sizes six to 24, its stretchy smocked bodice keeps it comfortable for all-day wear. However, while many M&S pieces usually come in three lengths, this is seemingly only available in regular at the moment, so those who are petite or taller might want to check measurements.
River Island Red Linen Blend Shirred Midi Dress – £46
Nothing says warm weather quite like linen, and this red midi delivers in a breathable 55% linen, 45% viscose blend. No doubt one that will see wearers from spring into summer, the fabric composition keeps things light and airy, though it may crease more easily – nothing a good steamer can’t handle, though.
The square neckline and short sleeves give it a modern silhouette, while the shirred back panel offers flexibility and comfort. Available in XS to XL, it’s an easy statement piece thanks to its bold colour, with red as a colour trend going absolutely nowhere.
Nobody’s Child Green Floral Elsie Midi Dress – £59
At the top end of our £60 budget, the Elsie midi from Nobody’s Child is romantic and relaxed. Featuring hand-drawn white florals, a square neckline and flutter sleeves, it’s feminine without feeling overly fussy. The elasticated waist and shirred back offer subtle shaping, while the tie-back detail allows wearers to tweak the fit.
The relaxed skirt keeps it comfortable, with the brand recommending that customers sticking to their usual size. If shoppers prefer a more structured silhouette, however, the softer skirt may feel a little floaty. At £59 it’s pricier than some on this list, but the frock is more sustainable than some, with the ability to track its supply chain and impact through their Digital Product Passport, which eco-conscious shoppers will appreciate.
New Look Blue Square Neck Frilly Trim Midi Dress – £33.99
For under £35, this square-neck midi is one of the most affordable on our list – and it’s giving me major Wuthering Heights vibes. The waisted fit flatters the silhouette, while the frilly trim adds a playful finish. It’s also available in black and khaki for those who prefer a more understated palette.
The simple design makes it an easy everyday option, though the lower price point may mean the fabric feels lighter than premium alternatives. Paired with some chocolate accessories, though, this dress can easily be elevated for day or night styling.
Next Pink Puff Sleeve Midi Dress – £49
Crafted from 100% cotton and fully lined, this puff-sleeve midi is reminiscent of one from Tu Clothing that went viral in 2022 – but more premium and updated. It earned glowing reviews for its quality, with one commenting: “Lovely dress. I particularly like that it is made of cotton and not polyester. It is also fully lined and the style with puff sleeves and scoop neckline is very flattering. Excellent value and quality. I rarely buy clothes from Next but this is an exception.”
Available in regular and tall fits, it caters well to different heights, but one reviewer noted it didn’t suit their figure, adding: “I love colour and material. Good quality but didn’t suit my figure, so I returned it.”
FatFace Grace Multi Confetti Floral Jersey Dress – £49.50
Light and floaty, this jersey mini is perfect for those who favour shorter hemlines. It boasts a flattering V-neckline, flutter sleeves and tiered skirt that lends a boho feel, complete with a vibrant ditsy print. It’s available in both regular and petite lengths, making it a strong contender for shorter shoppers, too.
In a five-star review, one customer wrote: “Lovely summer dress fits well and flattering on. Love this year colours.” For reference, the dress comes in a light pink and darker red hue. While FatFace suggests styling with sandals, I think cowboy boots would work equally well.
Roman Ivory Spot Print Boat Neck Dress – £60
Right at the £60 mark, this spot-print flare dress offers a more polished feel, perhaps even reminiscent of styles worn by Princess of Wales Kate Middleton. The boat neckline lends a classic touch, while the flared silhouette creates a flattering shape.
Available in sizes 10–20, it’s a chic option for work events or smarter occasions, though it’s unusual for there to be an absence of sizes six or eight. The structured shape may feel dressier than everyday buyers need, and at the top of the budget, it’s an investment compared to other picks.
ASOS DESIGN Crinkle Maxi Sundress – £36
I’ve been trying to reduce the number of clothes I buy this year, but I couldn’t resist this olive green crinkle dress from ASOS. The square neckline and sleeveless cut make it ideal for warmer days, while the shirred stretch panel makes it bloat-friendly.
At £36, it’s one of the best-value on this list, with the crinkle material being exceptionally travel friendly. For cooler days, I’ve even styled it under a blouse to give the illusion of a skirt. The dropped waist creates a relaxed silhouette, though it may not define the waist as much as other styles on this list, with some favouring higher-waisted styles to better suit their shape.
Mango Printed Midi Dress – £29.99
If you’re after a bargain, this polka dot midi at under £30 is hard to beat. Designed with a straight silhouette, V-neckline and short sleeves, it offers a simple, fuss-free take on spring dressing. A side zip ensures a cleaner fit, and it’s available in sizes four to 26, including plus.
The minimalist cut makes it easy to dress up or down, though the straighter shape may not offer as much waist definition as smocked or shirred alternatives. Still, for sheer affordability and size inclusivity, it’s one of the standout steals of the season – and polka dots never go out of style, either.
