always shopping
By Hanna Flanagan, a Cut Shop editor who covers all the best fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products that are actually worth your money. Before joining the Cut, she wrote for Cosmopolitan and People.
Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Photos: Retailers
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If you see me out and about between Memorial Day and Labor Day, there’s a 97 percent chance I’ll be wearing a light summer sundress. It’s the only article of clothing that won’t have me drenched in sweat the second I step outside, and the convenience of a one-piece outfit is irresistible. And now is the time to stock up on them.
As a seasoned shopping editor who hates feeling sticky in sweat, I’ve tried dozens of minis, midis, and maxis in a wide variety of trends, silhouettes, fabrics, and colors so you don’t have to.
From easy daytime and linen dresses that are essentials on the sweatiest of days to co*cktail dresses you need for wedding season and printed frocks that’ll stand out from the crowd, below, you’ll find the best of the best summer dresses that I want to live in right now.
SO, WHICH summer dress YOU SHOULD ADD TO YOUR CART?
➼ Best linen dresses
➼ Best party dresses
➼ Best daytime dresses
➼ Best printed dresses
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Best Linen Dresses
My mom has ingrained in me that linen is a superior fabric. It’s breezy, it’s comfortable, and it’s the one fabric in which wrinkles are welcome.
Available in sizes XS–XXL.
Available in a variety of neutral colors and checkered prints, this simple linen frock is one you’ll wear for years to come. It features a tie in the back that gives it a bit more shape than traditional A-line dresses.
$228
Available in sizes 0–12.
Another linen minidress you’ll want to wear for brunch, picnics in the park, and other daytime activities is this polka-dot one from Reformation. The Basque waist is beyond flattering.
$375
Available in sizes 0–10.
If you have a vacation coming up, make sure to pack this halter dress that features bead detailing and side cutouts. It’s the only nighttime look you’ll want to wear after hanging by the beach all day.
$150
Available in sizes 2–12.
The relaxed fit makes it ideal for everyday wear, while the asymmetric hem and contrast-top stitching will make it stand out from other white linen dresses in your closet.
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See AlsoLinen maxi dress | BSB Fashion Best Party Dresses
We found a dress for every summer soirée on your calendar. So whether you have a destination wedding or a fancy birthday bash coming up, keep scrolling if you want to dress to impress.
Available in sizes XXS–XL.
Looking for a wedding dress that’s appropriate but not boring? This fringe midi that’s fitted throughout the bodice is a showstopper.
AKNVAS For FWRD Greta Stretch Jersey Dress With Pockets
$695
$695
Available in sizes 0–10.
I can’t stop thinking about this dress — from the drop waist and off-the-shoulder neckline to the ruched bodice and bubble skirt, it’s perfect!
Available in E.U. sizes 32–42.
This option by Acne Studios has everything you want from a summer going-out dress: color, ruffles, lace, and semi-sheer fabric.
$497
Available in sizes XS–XL.
The high-low trend of the 2010s gets a modern update in the form of this festive option from Rococo Sand. With its flouncy and flowy fit, this dress just screams summer.
$317
Available in sizes S–XL.
This maxi will be coming with me on my next tropical vacation, mark my words. From the open back and the side slit to the bright-green color and the subtle metallic sheen, it deserves to be seen on a boat or at a beach club.
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Best Daytime Dresses
The most comfortable, effortlessly cool, and easy-to-wear dresses for brunch, beach days, picnics in the park, and beyond.
$220
Available in sizes XS–L.
Bec + Bridge makes great mid-priced dresses, like this sleeveless mini with buttons down the front. Even though it’s fitted close to the body, the fabric is stretchy and breathable.
Available in sizes XS–XL.
I purchased this dress last summer and have gotten so much wear out of it in the months since. It’s one of the most flattering items in my closet. Plus it’s held up impressively well considering the price point.
$895
$895
Available in sizes XS–L.
An effortlessly cool dress that goes with everything and feels somewhat formal? Yes, please.
$298
$298
Available in sizes XXS–XXL.
Whimsical and vintage-inspired, this cotton-poplin dress is all about the details; it has a scoop neckline, gathered hems, petite ruffles, puff sleeves, and a fitted bodice.
Available in sizes XXS–XL.
If you’re not into the cottagecore look, try a structured white linen dress like this one instead. Style it with moto boots or an oversize belt for an edgy vibe.
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Best Printed Dresses
My style usually consist of neutrals and versatile basics. But in the summer, I love to play with bright colors and bold prints like the ones below.
$50
Available in sizes XS–XL.
This is not your average leopard-print minidress; the high neckline and A-line silhouette give it a cool retro vibe.
$305
Available in sizes 2–22.
If your office building blasts the air-conditioning all summer long, you need to add a lightweight long-sleeve dress to your rotation. You won’t be drenched in sweat the second you walk outside, but you won’t be freezing at your desk all day, either. This one has a relaxed fit and can easily be styled with sneakers, sandals, or pumps.
Available in sizes XXS–XXL.
Whether you’re in a rush or just too hot to put on a full outfit, one-and-done shirtdresses like this one are essential for summer. This one also makes for a chic pool cover-up.
$149
Available in sizes 0–14.
Favorite Daughter is quickly becoming one of my favorite brands for staple pieces that look way more expensive than they are. This printed dress features cute front ruching, an adjustable tie detail, and a smocked back for maximum comfort.
$268
Available in sizes 4–16.
I plan on wearing this to one of the many summer weddings I have looming over my calendar. It’s fun and festive without feeling over the top, plus the midi length works for a wide variety of formalities.
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