If You've Never Bought These 7 Dress Trends, Now Is the Time to Start

At first, the thought of purchasing a “trendy dress” might sound like an unwise investment. After all, everyone knows it’s generally safest to stick to the classics if you’re looking to buy something for the long haul, and dresses are not something you want to cast aside after just one season.

That being said, the trends I’m about to call out for this summer are likely a far cry from what you probably have in mind when hearing the aforementioned phrase. Yes, they’re trendy, but they’re also not too trendy. As someone who has an admittedly simple style and would rather err on the side of boring than too out-there, you can trust me on this one.

From throwback necklines to flattering textures, the frocks you’re about to see below feel both of the moment and for the future. To see what I mean and, of course, shop all seven of the trending dress styles for yourself, just keep scrolling.

1. Open Back

Summer Dress Trends

Photo:

@smythsisters

If you’re looking to make a statement this summer—at least with your clothing—the open-back dress is the stylish way to go. 

2. Tie-Dye

Integrate this mood-lifting print into your summer wardrobe for a dress that will make you smile time and again. 

3. Ruched Cami

As my colleague Lauren pointed out, cami dresses with a ruched front are suddenly everywhere, and as someone who’s already purchased two of them, I couldn’t speak more highly of the easy little micro-trend. 

4. Halter

Summer Dress Trends

Photo:

@emmanuellek_

That’s right—it’s time to either dig up your old halter from the back of your closet or snag a new one.

5. Smocked

Smocking, which is as flattering as it is cool looking, just so happens to be very on-trend this season, with the “more is more” approach taking the lead. 

6. Puff Sleeves

There’s a puff-sleeve resurgence going on, and the minidress seems to be the fashion set’s favorite way to get the look right now.

7. Pink

Random, I know, but pink (in all forms) has been everywhere, and the shade is especially striking on a dress. 

This post was originally published on an earlier date and has since been updated.

Next: 49 under $49—your ultimate affordable shopping guide for summer.