The summer season is officially in full swing. With temperatures rising, many fashion folks are reaching for breathable hot-weather finds. Dresses are the perfect one-and-done garment to carry style enthusiasts through the scorching months ahead. As a fashion editor, I'm constantly looking for affordable ways to tap into my favorite trends, and dresses are no exception. On a recent browse of all my favorite retail hot spots, I found so many pretty summer dress options I can't stop thinking about. I decided to compile a list of these great pieces to help you give your wardrobe a much-needed summer refresh.
You can expect dresses of all shapes and colors, from tiered, billowy looks to those with sleek construction. I've identified a variety of frocks that are perfect for the rising temperatures ahead. Keep scrolling to uncover your new favorite dress.
You really can't go wrong with Rails.
Pack this backless beauty for your next tropical vacation.
I'm not usually a huge fan of cutouts, but they look so cute on this dress.
Prepare to be the best dressed wedding guest.
The pieces from the LSpace x Anthropologie collection are so good.
I'm loving the fringe details.
So pretty.
Fashion people have sold this dress out across multiple retailers. Get it while it's still available.
Stunning.
Sometimes, simple is best.
I've never seen such a sophisticated minidress.
Farm Rio dresses are made for summer frolicking.
The embroidery is so beautiful.
Bring on the linen.
For a summer night out, try this beauty.
Pair with simple heels of your choice.
Pilcro strikes again.
This subdued lavender slip dress is so chic.
I can't believe this is less than $70.
Such a cool vibrant green.
Mob wife takes summer.
Yes, please.
The belt is a nice touch.
Gimme puffed sleeves all summer long.
I can't believe how affordable this dress is.
Nordstrom-branded items make up some of the best online shopping deals you can score right now.
An affordable dive into the bubble-hem trend.
It's halterneck season.
For any upcoming wedding events.
Such a lovely shade of blue.
I'm all about this bright raspberry-pink coloring.
Sunshiny.
The perfect LBD for summer.
This halter minidress from Eloquii is now $80.
So gorgeous.
Pair with thong sandals and straw tote for an easy getaway outfit.
Drop-waist everything has been my personal obsession as of late.
Chartreuse dresses always look so good.
Beautiful smocking.
Adding to my cart immediately.
This can double as a great cover-up.
Our editors are loving this Free People frock.
This buttery yellow dress is bound to sell out.
I recently saw Remi Bader wearing this dress online, and I haven't been able to get it out of my head since.
I'm loving this pop of red.
Score some A&F favorites on sale right now.
The handkerchief hem is everything!
This beauty is screaming date night.
Gingham looks best in warmer weather.
A no-fuss dress.
So gorgeous.
Although this beauty is pretty simple, it has an elevated feel.
Summer-weight knits are a must.
Try out this classic shift.
So cute.
This style can be dressed up with heeled sandals or dressed down with cool white sneakers.
Wear as is or throw it on over your favorite jeans or linen pants for a fun, trendy look.
Asymmetrical details are always going to be a favorite of mine.
This festive dress screams OOO.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for SummerShop the highly curated list.
-
These 31 Rich-Looking Nordstrom Finds Are Giving "I Summer in the Hamptons"Minus the trust fund.
-
The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know AboutElite finds.
-
Of Course, 2025's Cali Summer Uniform Involves This Timeless Denim TrendCan you take any guesses?
-
8 Pieces, 15 Outfits: Inside My Anti-Trend Summer Capsule WardrobeOutfit repeating like it's my job.
-
Haven't Been to Madewell Lately? 36 Summer Clothing Styles I'd Snatch Up ASAPHurry—these pieces are bound to sell out.
-
Sorry to Millennials, But Gen Z Has Spoken, and These Are the Only 6 Summer Trends That MatterShop them all here.
-
Everyone With Good Taste Is Already Wearing These 7 Chic Summer PiecesThese instantly elevate any look.
