British designer, one of the first professional industrial designers and a leader in the late 19th-century vogue for Japanese-influenced design.

Dresser studied at the School of Design at Somerset House in London (1847–54) and went on to teach botany. After publication of his Unity in Variety (1859), he became a fellow of the Linnean Society. His Art of Decorative Design (1862) appeared just before he began work as a designer. At the International Exhibition of 1862 in London, Dresser was impressed with the Japanese collections on display. This interest was furthered by his visit to Japan as a representative of the British government in 1876; thereafter he adapted Japanese motifs and design principles for his own uses.

Dresser's work was strongly influenced by his scientific outlook, which some authorities claim reduced the aesthetic interest of his designs. His work, however, showed a genuine understanding of materials, especially metal and glass.

Other works by Dresser include The Development of Ornamental Art in the International Exhibition (1862) and Japan, Its Architecture, Art and Art Manufactures (1882).