While the lingering chill in the air may still be trying to convince us otherwise, summer is very much on the horizon. Soon, sandals will replace loafers, linen will take over from denim and dresses will once again become the backbone of our wardrobes.

As a shopping editor, I’m constantly asked where to find elegant, affordable dresses that actually look expensive—and while I hate sounding repetitive, I always come back to the same three brands: Zara, COS and Mango. Between them, they’ve quietly mastered summer dressing, each offering something slightly different, but equally essential.