Short Sleeve Dresses

Short sleeve dresses are the easy answer for almost any plan. They cover the top of the arm and still feel light. This edit covers days out, garden parties, weddings and weekend dinners. Most are fitted pencil shapes, many in light Ripple Crepe. Every style is made in England. Choose plain colours, florals or bold prints. Sizes run S to XXL, and most dresses sit on the knee.

Why a short sleeve?

Many women like a little cover on the upper arm. A short sleeve gives that without the warmth of a full sleeve. It looks neat in photos and feels comfortable all day.

It is also a true all-season sleeve. Wear it bare-legged in summer. Add tights and a cardigan in autumn.

Styles to explore

The Donna and Lydia short sleeve pencil dresses are clean and simple. The Camille is a classic short sleeve shape. The Derwent adds side pockets. The Tregony has a soft V-neck. For pattern, try the Memphis or Amorette printed styles.

Love colour and pattern? See our full range of printed dresses.

Not sure about sleeve length? A short sleeve covers part of the upper arm. A cap sleeve sits on the shoulder only. If you want the lightest cover, browse our cap sleeve dresses. Our guide to short sleeve types explains every option.

Styling ideas

  • Weddings: add a fascinator and a matching clutch.
  • Lunch dates: pair with a slingback and a straw bag.
  • Evenings: swap to heels and a bolder lip.
  • Cooler days: add a cropped cardigan and sheer tights.

Shopping for the office? Our short sleeve work dresses are cut for work.

Plain or printed?

Plain short sleeve dresses are easy to dress up or down. Black, blue and pink are popular choices here. Add a bold shoe or bag for a quick change.

Printed styles do more of the work for you. Florals and jacquards feel special for weddings and parties. The Nadia Matilda and Stamford jacquards have a rich, textured look. The Manderley uses a stretch satin print with a soft sheen.

Short sleeve dresses FAQs

Can I return a dress if it does not fit?

Yes. Return it within 14 days in original condition with tags attached.

What fabrics do you use?

Mostly Ripple Crepe, which is light and breathable. Some styles use Ottoman or Bi-Stretch. With Ottoman we suggest one size up, as the rib is firm.

What length are these dresses?

Most sit on the knee. A few sit just below it.

Are short sleeve dresses good for weddings?

Yes. A printed or brightly coloured style works well for daytime weddings. Add a jacket for the church and remove it for the reception.

How quickly will my dress arrive?

Order in-stock items before 1pm for UK express next working day delivery. See shipping and returns for more.

EU Right of Withdrawal

Under EU consumer law, customers may withdraw from their purchase within 14 days of delivery.

When submitting a return request, you may select Other as the return reason.

You do not need to provide a reason when exercising your EU withdrawal rights.

Returns are not available after 14 days from delivery.