Created with Cotton
Jul 20, 2020

I Can't Stop Wearing Cotton Dresses—These 25 Are My Favorites

by Michaela Bushkin

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one Who What Wear team member or friend of the brand will share the top 25 finds on their current wish list.

I seriously live in dresses between May and August. As in, you'll rarely find me in anything else. For one, I get a little lazy in the summer and don't want to spend the time or energy styling more than one piece with my favorite sandals or sneakers. And then there's the fact that when it's really hot, like over 90° hot, nothing else sounds appealing. But it's not just any dress that I'll throw on during the summer—I specifically rely on those made from as close to 100% cotton as possible.

My reasoning is simple really: Cotton is lightweight and breathable, so I don't have to stress about how long I can be outside before getting unbearably sticky. The fabric also doesn't crease easily and is machine washable. The list goes on and on, but I know you're really here to shop the cotton dresses, not learn about them, so I'll leave you with these 25 superb options starting at just $35.

UO Wonderland Tie-Back Babydoll Dress

UO Wonderland Tie-Back Babydoll Dress ($79)

The front is cute, but the back is better.

Everlane The Smock Dress

Everlane The Smock Dress ($88)

I can't get over the cinched bodice of this oatmeal-colored maxi dress. So comfy, yet so chic.

Ganni Printed Cotton Poplin Mini Dress

Ganni Printed Cotton Poplin Mini Dress ($245)

Ganni always comes through with the best prints.

Zimmermann Bellitude Polka-Dot Cotton-Gauze Dress

Zimmermann Bellitude Polka-Dot Cotton-Gauze Dress ($640)

My inner child is smiling just thinking about this polka-dot dress.

H&M Puff-Sleeved Cotton Dress

H&M Puff-Sleeved Cotton Dress ($35)

This one gives me Little House on the Prairie vibes in the best way.

Ética Alyssa Pinstripe Denim Minidress

Ética Alyssa Pinstripe Denim Minidress ($145)

I always prefer the feel of denim made from 100% cotton. This one comes with a belt too, which is always a plus.

9 Seed Tulum Core Cotton Maxi Dress

9 Seed Tulum Core Cotton Maxi Dress ($260)

This dress would make a very chic swimsuit cover-up.

Georgia Alice Milan Cotton Cut-Out Dress

Georgia Alice Milan Cotton Cut-Out Dress ~~( $460)~~ $319

These modern cutouts feel cool and elevated at the same time.

UO Pixie Milkmaid Dress

UO Pixie Milkmaid Dress ($69)

I love a puffy sleeve on a dress. This one is exactly why.

H&M Cotton Poplin Dress

H&M Cotton Poplin Dress ($60)

I, too, cannot believe this dress is only $60.

For Love & Lemons Wild Cherry Mini Dress

For Love & Lemons Wild Cherry Mini Dress ($251)

This neckline is perfect for showing off your favorite chain necklaces.

Sir Sabine Belted Cotton Mini Shirt Dress

Sir Sabine Belted Cotton Mini Shirt Dress ($268)

Something tailored and modern if frilly and romantic isn't your thing.

Emilio Pucci Geometric Print Cotton-Gauze Mini Dress

Emilio Pucci Geometric Print Cotton-Gauze Mini Dress ($855)

What I would do to have an excuse to wear this dress out right now. (Not that I need one.)

Mango Checked Cotton Dress

Mango Checked Cotton Dress ~~( $80)~~ $60

I'm not saying you should buy this dress solely for your next picnic, but I'm not saying you shouldn't.

Free People Destination Midi Dress

Free People Destination Midi Dress ($60)

But this one is a close second. I love the ankle-grazing length.

Lemlem Bahiri Deep V Maxi Dress

Lemlem Bahiri Deep V Maxi Dress ($375)

Something nautical for an evening boat cruise or, more realistically, a walk around your neighborhood.

Self Portrait Shirred Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

Self Portrait Shirred Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress ($390)

This color combo feels pleasantly unexpected.

Superdown Flynn Ruched Sleeve Dress

Superdown Flynn Ruched Sleeve Dress ($74)

When you want to dress up but still be comfortable.

Staud Elio Off-The-Shoulder Cotton Dress

Staud Elio Off-The-Shoulder Cotton Dress ($285)

Just add square-toe slides for an easy on-trend outfit.

Charo Ruiz Kim Dress

Charo Ruiz Kim Dress ($350)

The floral embroidery here is simply dreamy.

Honorine Giselle Tiered Crinkled Tie-Dyed Cotton Dress

Honorine Giselle Tiered Crinkled Tie-Dyed Cotton Dress ($400)

I couldn't leave you without a tie-dye dress now could I?