The Return of the Summer of 1940

Source: http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/features/the-ten-best-summer-dresses-1730934.html
Credits: Beth Dadswell
Dated: 2009-07-04

Reiss Reiss
Those of you fortunate enough to be blessed with curves will know how hard it is to find tailored pieces that actually fit in all the right places! This grown-up, belted dress will accentuate your shape, but is still modest enough to wear to the office.
Price: £110
reiss.co.uk
Kew Kew
Forties fashion never really goes out of style, mainly because it is so flattering. This cap-sleeved dress from Kew is particularly Land Girls in mood, and would look brilliant worn with a chunky cardigan and hair pulled up into a loose bun.
Price: £95
kew-online.com
Saltwater Saltwater
If florals aren't your thing, try this dress decorated with a delicate dragon fly print. The simple spaghetti straps and tie detail make it feminine without being too girlie.
Price: £85
saltwater.net
Hussein Chalayan Hussein Chalayan
This cleverly constructed number is far from your average wrap dress, but the effect is the same. It narrows the waist, enhances the bust, and is flattering on the hips. The digital print gives it a kooky, tropical vibe too.
Price: £660
brownsfashion.com
Liberty Liberty
Capitalising on the fabulous prints in its archive, Liberty has invited several labels to use its heritage fabrics. This Cacharel maxi dress has a simple shape, and will see you through a week in Ibiza as well as a picnic in the park.
Price: £200
liberty.co.uk
Jigsaw Jigsaw
Hot climes demand cool clothes, but if the thought of stripping off gives you the fear, invest in a maxi dress. It will keep you cool, while you float around in sandals and big sunglasses.
Price: £139
jigsawonline.com
New Look New Look
This is the perfect holiday sundress ? short, flirty and perfect for showing off a light tan. It's ideal for throwing on over a bikini for a day at the beach: accessorise with a straw hat. Vespa and Latin lover optional.
Price: £25
newlook.co.uk
French Connection French Connection
If you feel the cold, this Bretonstriped dress is the height of fashion, and will keep you and your delicate disposition warm while revealing a bit of tanned ankle.
Price: £80
frenchconnection.com
Cos Cos
If you have a boyish figure, a Fifties-style dress can give you a few curves. This cotton frock is covered in a pretty floral print, making it young and fun. Perfect for a British summer holiday.
Price: £55
cosstores.com
Topshop Topshop
If the credit crunch means you can only treat yourself to one new dress this summer, this pansy print corset-style from Topshop should be it. The corset bodice gives support whilst the skirt gently puffs out into a tulip shape. Wear with a blazer and flats to give it a tougher edge.
Price: £50
topshop.com