Milkmaid dresses are the universally-flattering fashion trend that keeps on giving

When it comes to dresses, there are those of us who absolutely live in them and others who just can't seem to make them work. Milkmaid dresses, on the other hand, are the universally-flattering fashion trend that just keeps on giving.

They became the silhouette of 2021, loved for their throw-on-and-go ease after everyone forgot how to dress post-lockdown, and haven't really left our wardrobe rotations since.

Need proof? Ashley Park of Emily in Paris fame recently posted a pic of her almost sold-out Reformation frock on Instagram just the other day. The brand's Balia Linen Dress comes in seven different colours, and her's (slate check) is flying off the shelves.

ashleyparklady / Instagram

Balia Linen Dress

£298

Reformation

Elsewhere, Sleeper's iconic milkmaid dress the Atlanta remains one of Net-A-Porter's bestsellers, while House of CB's corseted offerings have become the talk of TikTok – especially when it comes to wedding guest dresses.

So, while you may not have always known that that's what this style is called, you're no doubt familiar with the shape; if not from your own wardrobe then certainly from your social feeds.

Traditionally complete with puffed-sleeves, square – or sweetheart – neckline and usually mid-length (although the minis are also super cute), the milkmaid dress has been the unofficial sponsor of summer dressing for the last couple of years, but did you also know that it's a great transitional piece as we move into autumn?

While you may know it best worn with a pair of sandals and SPF, this style dress is also incredibly chic when paired with a boot – particularly a cowboy boot – and a trench coat.

For more from Glamour UK's Fashion Editor Charlie Teather, follow her on Instagram @charlieteather. For more from Glamour UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.

Scroll down for the best milkmaid dresses 2024, including miss Park's.