The best cotton summer dresses for over 50s

A midi-style dress is one which all women should have in their summer wardrobes. Not only does it elongate your silhouette by stopping between your knee's and ankles, but the puff sleeves and bow tie at the back make for effortless design details that take this from plain to perfection. The gorgeous bold orange shade is also brilliant to wear to a party or a picnic with the family, or if you're not a colour fan, then it also comes available in black.

Add a belt around the waist to show off your bodies natural curves. This will also make for a smarter look. Customers love the lightness of the fabric and how it makes for a cool and comfortable fit.

Sizes available: 8-20.

The older we get sometimes the more weary we can become of bold styles and bright colours. However, this playful pattered option from River Island has to be our favourite for the summer as not only does the print scream holiday but the addition of the built in waist belt adds more shape for fuller figures, making sure you'll receive plenty of compliments.

Sizes available: 6-18.

If there is one print that is a sure winner for summer it's polka dots. Not only do they immediately add a playful element to your outfit, but it also makes for flattering pattern as it distracts people's eyes as to not draw attention to any area's wearers may not be fond of.

This puff-sleeve style from Peacocks comes with a panel of shirring across the bodice to provide maximum support and comfort as it expands to fit your body without feeling restricted.

Sizes available: 8-24

Give a timeless style of dress a modern and punchy upgrade with this blue patterned shirt dress from Boden. Whether you wear it with a pair of comfortable trainers, classic ballet pumps or a kitten heel for more formal events, this is a dress that can be re-worn countless times so you can get maximum cost-per-wear.

Customers are raving over the print and how soft the fabric feels, making it a sure go-to for the season ahead.

Sizes available: 6-22. Petite and regular.

Looking for something which you can throw on for day-to-day tasks? Then look no further than this simple cotton dress that comes with a summer-inspired floral print. The straight cut of the silhouette makes it brilliant to keep you cool whilst going about your daily life with an added bonus of side seam pockets to store some of your essentials in.

A good shirt dress can be hard to find in terms of the right fit, but customers have said that it fits well and that the addition of the extra internal buttons help to prevent any gaping.

Sizes available: 8-24

A key trend which is taking over the high street is none other than broderie. This is a technique which is a form of embroidery where small holes and cutouts are made in the fabric leaving a delicate decorative finish.

This dress has been created with a gathered bodice to allow maximum stretch and comfort. The puff sleeves work with the length of the dress so that the silhouette's proportions are balanced. If the v-neck isn't to your liking you can wear a lightweight vest underneath to raise the neckline.

Size availability: 6-22

Above-the-knee dresses are more flattering than you think. The scalloped hem gently brushes the top of the knee's to create the illusion of a taller silhouette, perfect for petite bodies. Style this fun dress with a cosy cardigan to layer up in the colder evenings, or pair with some basic flip flop whilst on your holidays.

Size availability: S-XXL (8-24)

Sleeves can sometimes makes us warmer in the sunshine, so opting for a sleeveless option will help beat the heat. Instead of choosing a thin strap style, this option comes with ruffles to act as a small cover up. The sweetheart neckline, along with the flowing skirt and smocked waistband work together to create a feminine aesthetic.

Buyers of this dress have expressed how flattering the bust and waistline is when wearing. Many have also said how much they love the gorgeous shade of blue which is a fantastic shade to show off a summer tan.

Size available: 6-24

Another go-to figure flattering dress style which is brilliant for ladies of any age is a wrap dress. Not only is it super easy to put on but it effortlessly highlights your bodies natural curves, even if you don’t think you have any.

The long sleeves come with an elasticated cuff to give them a balloon-style finish and provides comfort to not put force on the wrists.

Size availability: XS-XXL (6-26)

If there’s any colour that you should invest in it’s a white cotton dress. Yes, it may seem a risky colour, especially with young ones running around, however, they are one of the most stunning styles to have. Not only is white a chic colour, but it allows for huge styling potential. Change up the look by throwing on a coloured cardigan and wedges or add a belt and ankle boots to take it into autumn.

Sizes available: 8-28

In recent years, Marks and Spencer has reviewed and relaunched its clothing brands in a bid to appeal to a broader range of shoppers. The brand says that pieces in the range are now designed to be worn and loved by women of all ages. With more than 200 different dresses available website, there’s something to suit all shapes and tastes. Stocks UK sizes 6-24.

Distinctly Cornish and with a seaside vibe, the Yours team love this brand’s quirky style and pretty prints. Their clothing collection features beautifully flattering dresses and versatile tunics in soft, plain and patterned natural fabrics, all in lovely nautical colours, emphasising blues and reds. Stocks UK sizes 6-20.

If you’re a fan of vibrant colours and pretty patterns in complimentary cuts, look no further than Boden. Whether you're a fan of minis, midis, or maxis, their offering includes so many options that you'll be able to style with flats, white trainers, and heeled sandals alike. Stocks UK sizes 6-22.

You’ve no doubt heard of Joules, but the brand is far more than a good place to buy stylish and comfortable cotton dresses featuring their iconic stripes and floral designs that come in mix-and-match midi and knee-length styles. Stocks UK sizes 6-26.

Nobody's Child has a capsule collection of affordable day dresses and the occasional formalwear that's suitable for all scenarios. There are mini, midi, and maxi dresses galore featuring pretty prints and feminine silhouettes. Stocks UK sizes 8-18.

Wardrobe essentials come in the shape of organic cotton tops, jumpsuits and V-neck dresses from White Stuff. Featuring summer dresses with some of the most unique prints and an inclusive size range. Stocks UK sizes XS - 3XL.

Cotton Traders' story goes all the way back to the 70s… so, it's safe to say, they know their stuff! They have lots of floral maxi dresses that are perfect to pair with a cardigan on a summer evening. Stocks UK sizes 8-22.