Whether you’re on the hunt for a slinky slip dress to wear to your stacked calendar of weddings, a lightweight shirtdress to make work dressing a breeze or a breezy crochet dress to pack alongside your vacation essentials, peak summer dresses are here. The best ones combine the season’s hottest trends and silhouettes, from voluminous sleeves and smocking to eyelet and eye-catching floral prints. They’re offered in short minis, comfortable midis and billowy maxis, as well as flattering options for plus-size curves. And they’re designed to last all summer long, with styles you can layer over jeans or toss on sneakers for errands and brunch.
Invest in a versatile, wear-anywhere style, like this go-with-everything Amazon Essentials dress that’s currently on sale (it comes in women’s sizes S to 3X). The boxy-cut jersey dress is made with ultra-soft fabric for comfort on hot days and boasts a flattering V-neck, swingy fit, and goes-with-everything hues. Reviewers rave about the stretchy material, which is both breathable and soft to the touch, as well as its flattering shape that’s not too tight or clingy.
If you’re craving a bolder look, opt for this Reiss Nina dress, which is made with flowing satin-like fabric that skims the body and a cape-style single shoulder. The asymmetrical neckline and eye-catching white rose appliques create a feminine aesthetic that makes this minidress perfect for summer parties. Add a pair of silver stilettos and pearl earrings to elevate the look for an evening out, or wear with casual sneakers and a denim jacket for daytime shopping and coffee dates.
Another summer-friendly option is this striped cotton dress from Hunter Bell, which is perfect for the coastal aesthetics that are running rampant on TikTok and can easily be worn with sneakers or strappy lace-up heels. It hits just above the ankle for a versatile length, which means it can also be worn as a cover-up at the beach.
A wrap or surplice dress is a classic style that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and features a flattering, hourglass-like nip to the waist for every body type. It’s easy to find in a wide range of summer colors and can be paired with blazers for work or denim jackets when you want to warm up.
Linen dresses are another vacation staple, and the soft and breathable materials are perfect for a day of sightseeing or lounging by the pool. Linen dresses are typically lightweight and come in a variety of sleeve and hem lengths, including this flowy linen midi dress that’s a great option for petites. Linen is wrinkle-resistant, but it does have a tendency to get rumpled on the go — just pack this one with a travel bag filled with a few hairspray cans and you’ll be good to go.
A smocked dress is another go-to for warm weather because it’s relaxed, comfy and easy to dress up or down. The smocking of this cotton-blend dress is subtle but noticeable and adds a beautiful, boho-inspired accent to your outfit. It’s available in a range of summer colors and can be paired easily with sneakers or heels.