15 Cute Summer Dresses for Your Warm-Weather Rotation
Samantha Peters
Senior Shopping & Fashion Editor
If your wardrobe needs a refresh, consider investing in some cute summer dresses. There are tried and true silhouettes like beachy maxis and floral print midis you can choose, as well as a range of updated looks influenced by the season’s hottest runway trends. Think romantic puff sleeve styles seen on the catwalk of Cecilie Bahnsen and slinky, 90s-esque slip dresses showcased by Calvin Klein and Narciso Rodriguez. And if you loved Greta Gerwig’s Oscar-nominated adaptation of Little Women, you’ll be obsessed with the elegant prairie-inspired frocks which are also having a moment.
Given the unprecedented times we live in, comfort is now a top priority in dressing. As such, try styles with breezy, relaxed fits and soft materials like cotton, silk and linen.
With all this in mind, we rounded up some chic summer dresses worth investing in — many of which are great for going out and comfortable enough for lounging or working from home. They’re also meant to accommodate any budget, starting at just $17.
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Urban Outfitters Whisper Eyelet Babydoll Mini Dress
An all-over lace design and peekaboo front cutout add extra sweet touches to this baby doll dress.
Reformation Britten Dress
Show off some skin with this silky floral midi dress, complete with a thigh-high slit. Pair it with minimalist sandals to make your legs appear miles long.
You’ve Dot to Let It Grow Ruffle Mini Dress
This delicate number promises to be a staple piece through the rest of 2020, as it can easily transition into cooler fall days. Ruffle details and billowing sleeves are offset by a fitted waistline to enhance your figure.
Nasty Gal You've Dot to Let It Grow Dress
Missguided Floral Tie Back Frill Mini Dress
Like puffy sleeves, off-the-shoulder styles are all the rage this summer. Try a cheery yellow option like this version from Missguided to nail the look.
Miss Guided Floral Tie Back Frill Mini Dress
Topshop Rib Knit Tie Waist Maxi Dress
As cozy as your favorite tee (but probably more stylish), this versatile cotton maxi is polished thanks to a ribbed pattern, waist tie and modest side slit. It’s suitable for work Zoom meetings, running errands and more.
Asos Design Broderie Midi Sundress
No summer wardrobe is complete without the perfect white dress, and this one may just fit the bill. The button-front style is made of breezy cotton and features a subtle cutout design to keep you cool on even the hottest days.
Asos Design Broderie Midi Sundress
Mango Striped Shirt Dress
A classic look, this striped button-down dress gives you many styling choices. Dress it up with heels or wear it with sneakers for a more casual ensemble.
Asos Design Broderie Midi Sundress
Shein Plunging Tied Backless Ruffle Trim Floral Print Dress
Fun, flirty and oh-so affordable, Shein’s floral dress offers a plunging neckline, backless detail and oversized ruffles throughout. The red, teal and yellow color scheme is also quite eye-catching.
Shein Ruffle Floral Print Dress
Anthropologie Safa Tiered Shimmer Midi Dress
Carrying over from spring, the tiered dress trend adds volume to your look. Try this bobo-inspired pick offering cant-miss details like embroidery, shoulder ties with tassel embellishments and a hint of shimmer for a dazzling finish.
Lulus Seeking Sunshine Mini Slip Dress
Prints from decades past are making a resurgence, particularly tie dye. This little red dress done in the finish gives off 2000s-era vibes with a cowl neck and fitted bodice.
H&M A-Line Dress
Another great tiered dress, this knee-length option offers a bit more coverage up front with a ruffle-embellished high neckline.
Madewell Wrap-Front Midi Dress
Complete with a cinched waist and calf-grazing hemline, this flattering red wrap dress will complement many body types.
Madewell Wrap-Front Midi Dress
BTFBM Casual Crew Neck Dress
Can’t seem to have enough t-shirt dresses in your closet? Here’s a shorter style that’s just as cozy and versatile for good measure. It offers a fitted silhouette with side ruching and a cross-over hem for an anything-but-basic look.
Free People Do the Twist Seersucker Halter Sundress
For those dreaming of summer picnics, this gingham halter dress is a go-to outfit choice. It also offers a bit of drama with an open back and thick neck ties that can be tied into a large bow.
Willow Rochelle Tie Front Midi Sundress
This airy sundress, featuring a cute keyhole detail, can double as an everyday style or beach cover up.
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