Summer is heating up and that means one thing—it’s officially dress season. I find that easy, breezy dresses take the guesswork out of the somewhat impossible task of trying to look cool and chic in blistering temperatures. Suffice to say, I live in dresses in the summertime—whether it be for a sticky commute, a destination vacation, or a night out. Choosing ones that are unfussy is key for me, since when I am comfortable, I feel my best, and I encourage you to do the same.
Below, find all my favorites that have that "I just threw this on" quality to them, no extra styling required, say for a few accessories. My picks are heavy on the breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen (a must in my book), but the sky's the limit when it comes to silhouettes and styles. Right now, I am gravitating towards longer styles, like maxi and midi shapes that are full of volume (with a nipped-in waist here and there) and slinky tank dresses that are as airy and light as a summer breeze. Go ahead, grab more than one to keep cool all summer long.
Shop Chic, Throw-On Dresses
The smocked bodice and strappy back make this one oh-so-airy.
You can find me wearing this with Birkenstocks and sunnies all summer long.
The subtle floral print gives this simple slip dress a fresh feel.
Subtle crochet on the bodice gives texture to this extremely gauzy pick.
Puffed sleeve poplin is going into my weekly office look rotation stat.
I am leaning into chocolate brown to mix into my normal palette of black and white all summer long.
I will be channeling a Mediterranean summer all season with this breezy, linen midi.
Polka dots (the classic, summertime print) get a cool makeover with this very modern silhouette.
Drop-waist dresses are not to be slept on this summer. Free People's version is high on my must list.
You can't go wrong with a puff-sleeved frock. This cornflower blue is giving me life.
The buttery feel of Éterne's jersey is the most comfortable out there, in my opinion.
A linen mini dress is a must for a hot night out. Add a strappy sandal for instant pizzazz.
Pair this effortless maxi with knitted accessories for a very seasonal styling spin.
Don't let the long sleeve and hemline fool you. This one has long skirt slits giving it the airiest feel.
Show a little décolletage with this spaghetti strapped, V-neck option.
The corset detailing and lace trim are as pretty as can be.
Puffed sleeves and a full skirt give provide maximum volume to keep you cool all day.
A linen shirt dress is a no-brainer. Wear to work or style casually on the weekends over a swimsuit.
The square-cut neckline is super flattering on all figures.
Conjure an East Coast summer feel with preppy-inspired stripes.
You will be surprised at how often you reach for this one. It's just that good.
I plan to belt this and wear with lace-up sandals for a Grecian vibe.
I can't believe this striped mini is under $100. You will find me styling it with ballerina flats and a straw bag all season.
Every summer closet needs a perfect slip dress to wear over and over.
Define the waistline with this zip-front take on a sundress.
Flirty and fun, it's everything a summer dress should be.
You can't get wrong with a delicate floral to break up the black.
Sweaty days don't stand a chance with this breezy, poplin take.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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