On Trend: The Sustainable Summer White Dress 7 Ways

Loup Charmant Scallop Dress SS13

ColumnWhite is synonymous with a lightness and ease associated with summer; it is flattering with every silhouette, looks fresh against sun kissed skin and never goes out of style. Wear a summer white dress casual or dressy–it’s always a blank slate to accessorize. On Trend this summer, here are seven of our favorite white dresses.

David Peck Ingalls Dress SS13

1. Ingalls Dress by David Peck

Houston-based designer David Peck is a champion of impeccably tailored feminine garments, with the ease of American practicality.  This dress’ inward-collar neckline extenuates the shoulders for a subtle sexy touch.  Made from the light and luxurious 100 percent Raw Silk Noil. Socially responsible manufacturing add to the strength of this summer white dress.

$395, David Peck

Carrie Parry Sheer Layered Shirt Dress SS13

2. Sheer Layered Shirt Dress by Carrie Parry

This dress is fashion forward, and the epitome of a simple staple garment you’ll want to keep forever (and even wear past summer). Made of 100 percent Bemberg Cupro and 100 percent handwoven Silk Georgette Overay, the dress is produced in New York City.  For every garment purchased a tree is planted through the non-profit Trees for the Future.

$385, Carrie Parry

Rae Francis Dickson Dress SS13

3. Dickson Dress by Rae Francis

Designed and produced in New York City, this light summer white dress is effortlessly chic and fun for any occassion.  It’s made from 100 percent cotton and lined with white silk. Ariel Lilly and Christina Coniglio of Rae Francis describe their collections as ‘Desk to Dinner,’ classic and elegant for an easy going boho-lifestyle summer trend.

$281, Rae Francis

Loup Charmant Scallop Dress SS13

4. Scallop Dress by Loup Charmant

As if from a dream, this garment’s delicate and flowing silhouette is light and just right for summer.  Crafted with a deep V-neckline in the front, its structure was inspired by a found Victorian children’s dress.  Made with organic cotton in New York City.

$490, Loup Charmant

Nanette Lapore La Rambla Dress SS13

5. La Rambla Lace Dress by Nanette Lapore

Long time designer and advocate in New York City’s Garment Center, Nanette Lapore, mixes lace fabric with a mod silhouette for this cute summer dress.  The Mondrain-esq, asymmetrical detail adds a sense of fun to the charming lace.  Whether it’s afternoon tea or strolling on a city street, this dress gives a rich dimension of texture to the summer trend.

$378, Bergdorf Goodman

Lavuk Clifton Pleated Dress SS13

6. Clifton Pleated Dress by Lavuk

This dress’ playful drop waist and pleated skirt give a nod to the flapper of the ’20s mixed with the simplicity of modern design. Made with 100 percent cupro, a fabric with a delicate appearance but embodies a durability like cotton, it’s ethically manufactured in Los Angeles. For every Lavuk garment sold a tree is planted through the American Forest Releaf Program.

$260, Modavanti

Rag and Bone Gianna Dress SS13

7. Gianna Dress by Rag and Bone

Made in the US, this dress is a form-fitting take on the classic t-shirt dress.  The fabric is perforated, but it’s fully lined, so no added fuss over what slip to wear underneath. Made with 72 percent viscose, dress is up or down, it’s a sure staple for summer.

$395, Rag and Bone

Images courtesy of the brands featured

Lavuk Clifton Dress photo credit: Urban Outfitters via Wanelo

Nanette Lapore La Ramba Dress photo credit: Bergdorf Goodman

[Editor’s Note: On Trend columnist Johanna Bjork is on vacation and will return later this month. We welcome Juliette in her absence!]

 

Juliette Donatelli

Working in the field of sustainability for over seven years, Juliette is passionate about its intersection within the fashion industry. Juliette began studying ecological conservation, and led consumer awareness campaigns around the world from water usage in southern California, riparian restoration in South Africa, food distribution in Paris and bison habitat in the Great Plains. She has launched her passion--consumerism and sustainability--into a place where it hits home--fashion. Juliette is the founder and editor-in-chief of spadesandsilk.com, Director of Sustainability at Manufacture NY, and loves to read, dance, swim and enjoy the occasional glass of champagne.