The Best Summer Dresses
When the sun wakes from its months of slumber and rises into full force, you don't want to be strolling around in thick jeans and a sweater. Whether you're planning a holiday at home or abroad or just looking for a comfortable outfit to while away lazy afternoons in the heat, these summer dresses could be just what your wardrobe needs. We've gathered a bright and brilliant selection of the most colorful and comfortable dresses we could find. So take your pick and you'll be ready to enjoy the hottest months of the year in no time.
What to Look For
To bring you the very best dresses we could find, we had three questions in mind during our search: Is the fabric soft and breathable? Is there a range of vibrant colors to choose between? Is it easy to take off and put on at the beach? We really love Elescat’s dresses, especially because they’re offered in such a wide range of bold colors. Thanks to that, we’re sure you’ll have no trouble choosing your favorite. The dresses are easy to slip into thanks to the lack of buckles or ties, but if you’re looking for something that clings more to your figure, take a look at the dress from DB Moon. It comes in a variety of bright floral patterns that are sure to dazzle in the sun. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
Elescat Summer Dresses For Women
Bring on the color
When the sun comes out, it’s time to cast aside your autumnal hues and embrace a world of color. These boldly patterned dresses are sure to signal that you’re ready for the heat. There are so many options to choose from, with hippie tie-dye patterns, rich paisley designs, and unique floral prints. If you feel like treating yourself, you might even be tempted to buy more than one.
Pros:
- The 65% cotton-blended fabric is breathable and soft. Thanks to that, it’s a great option for those with sensitive skin.
- The sleeveless design will let you maximize your tan as you lounge under the sun.
- This dress is easy to put on and take off because it has no ties or buckles. This makes it a great choice for the beach.
Cons:
- These dresses don’t come in standard sizing, so be sure to check the chart provided before you order.
Merokeety Summer Striped T-Shirt Dress
White stripes
Stripes are a must-have for any wardrobe as they can highlight natural curves on all figures. This casual T-shirt dress works wonders with its free-flowing form. Its understated design and simple crewneck opening make it a natural choice for lounging in the sun or partying the night away. And thanks to the slim belt at the waist, it will sit delicately above your hips to subtlely articulate your figure.
Pros:
- The 65% rayon and 35% polyester blend gives this fabric a soft, stretchy feel.
- If you’re not a fan of stripes, there are also several gorgeous monochrome options available.
- The dress has a front-tie belt, so you won’t need a helping hand to get it fastened.
Cons:
- This short dress might not be long enough for those over six feet tall.
DB Moon Summer Casual Short Sleeved Dress
Blossom into life
When the sun comes out, the natural world blooms into action. What better way to embrace and celebrate the season of life than with these gorgeous floral summer dresses? The selection of prints offers a rainbow of botanical hues, from dazzling golden sunflowers to delicate lilies and roses. With these blossoming petals flowing around your figure, you’re sure to look ready for summer.
Pros:
- The two hidden pockets are perfect for storing valuables on the go. Plus, they’re stitched into the seams, so they won’t bulge when empty.
- The high elastic waist offers a flattering fit and holds the dress comfortably in place during wear.
- We love that this blended synthetic fabric is machine-washable.
Cons:
- Be mindful of your choice of underwear, as this thin fabric can be revealing.
Anrabess Casual Loose Sundress
As long as you like
A maxi dress could be just what the sun called for. Thanks to their free-flowing fabric, they let your body breathe to keep you cool as temperatures rise. These stately dresses come in a range of color options, so you can take your pick between subtle single hues, bold floral prints, and quirky logo designs. The spacious crew neck is supremely comfortable and lets you rock your favorite necklace underneath. All in all, this is a natural choice for lounging in the heat.
Pros:
- This maxi dress has two splits at the sides, making it easier than some to move around in.
- If you love pockets on your dresses, you’ll be impressed by the capacity of these two deep side pockets.
Cons:
- The length doesn’t scale with sizes, meaning it might run a little short for some.
Amazon Essentials Twill Tiered Midi Summer Dress
The price is right
Decking out your wardrobe for the summer months doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and these great value dresses from Amazon Essentials are a must for fashionistas who love a bargain. The loose casual fit is aided by two horizontal seams below the chest and above the knees, helping this dress subtly cling to your body as you move. With a range of delicate pastel hues to choose from, it’s a natural winner in the sun.
Pros:
- The side zipper closure is easy to reach and fasten, so you won’t need help to hand.
- We appreciate that this viscose fabric is machine-washable, as it makes it much easier to clean and care for.
Cons:
- The bust size is larger than usual, so it may not be a good fit for some.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I machine-wash my summer dress?
Whether you’re lounging by the beach or strolling through sunny boulevards, your clothes will need to be washed more often than usual during hot weather. Most of the dresses we reviewed are machine-washable, but always read the label to check the manufacturer’s instructions. To avoid shrinkage, we suggest air drying your dresses after they’ve been washed.
How can I find out how long a dress is?
While sizing at the waist and bust is usually clearly displayed on the product listing, it’s not always immediately obvious how long a dress might be. Most of the dresses we reviewed detail their total length in a measurement chart provided. Not all of them scale the length by size, so be sure to check before you buy to avoid disappointment.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.