White Heat. 21 beautiful, summery dresses

I own 10 white summer dresses - TEN.

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It's an unhealthy obsession, but there are far worse vices. I love a summer dress at the best of times, but there's something particularly enticing about white. It feels like the ultimate sign of summer - fresh, pretty and looks ever so good with a tan.

There are many different routes you can go with a white summer dress - there is the bohemian style christening dress (my style of choice and Alexa Chung pictured), which can be worn with either biker boots for a tougher edge, or sandals when it's too hot to do otherwise; the minimal, futuristic style, which requires long legs and an androgynous physique; the classic Sixties-style lace variety, ideal for anyone who wants to cover their arms; or the Taylor Swift-esque high-waisted, full skirted kind, which look good on pretty much everyone. Wear with white Stan Smiths for a more boyish look, or with towering tan wedges. Steer clear of court shoes because you'll end up looking like a bride. We've even tried to find a similar version of the Calvin Klein white mini dress Cher from Clueless wore, but in a more summer-appropriate crochet variety.

There is much written about how much white attracts dirt. I am messier than a toddler and manage ok. Grass stains from festivals and picnics add character and there aren't many clothes that are the colour of red wine anyway.

We've spent many happy hours scouring the shops to present the 21 greatest white summer dresses, whatever your sensibility:

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