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The stylish equivalent of an snow- cool drink on a hot summer day is a sunshine- available summer dress. The simple one-and-don type answer makes dressing up for any occasion much quicker and simpler, specially for important investment-worthy women’s dress styles that can be worn during work hours to cocktail hours. Surprisingly, the best summer clothes this year are available in a range of cost points and shapes to flatter your figure on any budget.
Consider the variety of sinuous, sleeveless, chic, and even tennis dresses to be staples of the capsule wardrobe this season. Modern brands like Banana Republic, Quince, Free People, and Alo Yoga provide a wealth of summer dress options to suit your style, whether you’re embracing Euro- summer style trends in decorative- printed linens and breath sleeves, or you have an affinity for quick’ 90s minimalism with flat necklines and flowing trapeze skirts.
In the dog days of summer, stylist, who’s dressed A- listers from Lupita Nyong’o to Meryl Streep, recommends shopping for soft, breathable materials for the best summer dresses, like cotton or linen. She says,” Linole can host a wrinkle, so it’s not too precious, and I love that for travel to warm places,” and that’s the beauty of linen. “ You also want to consider more neutral or earthier palettes because it is an organic material, so it’s going to get better with washing and aging, which responds better with more natural dyes”.
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Below, discover the best summer dresses of 2024 from trending brands. Then, keep scrolling for editorial-curated summer dress outfit inspiration and insider advice on what to look for when shopping.
Top Summer Dresses of 2024
Top 3 Summer Dresses of 2024, Editor’s Choice
What’s sunny season without a winning arsenal of feminine summer dresses? These simple pieces come in a variety of silhouettes, from maxi to mini hems to almost everything in between. Since the category covers so much ground, we’ve highlighted our top three summer dress recommendations for the season that hit various style preferences, price points, and are friendly for a range of occasions. We’ve chosen our top picks based on a number of essential factors, including versatility, comfort, style appeal, and durability, so they can be used for a long time to come.
- Skims Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress: This viral sensation is worth every bit of the hype it receives. This ankle-skimming maxi slip dress is incredibly breathable and breathable for high temperatures. It also expertly flatters curves of all sizes and is available in solid colorways for endless styling possibilities. Plus, it easily transitions to cool nights or chilly seasons with a trusty or. This Skims summer dress has a clean neckline for a sexy minimalist look for those looking to embodiee the 90s supermodel style, but for the woman who likes to go glam, it can be seen as a blank canvas to accessorize with chunky earrings, tennis bracelets, statement heels, and so much more. If you’re traveling this summer, do n’t forget to pack this wrinkle- resistant modal summer dress that can be worn as a casual number or a cocktail dress based on how it’s styled, allowing you to save space in your luggage for other wardrobe essentials.
- The Aubree Linen Dress is a staple throughout the sunny season, thanks to one editor. This lightweight and adjustable frock comes in a chic mini, square- neck cut, with a comfortable relaxed fit and cute tie straps. On a vacation, pack the sweet and straightforward statement away, or wear it with a cotton tee for work. The best thing about summer linen dresses is that light wrinkles are expected from the fabric, so you can rest easy knowing this casual summer dress requires little maintenance to look its best. For a more fashion-forward appearance, especially when worn with a silk scarf and for a” Euro Summer” vibe, simply add a classic to your summer adventures. Consider this summer linen dress essential for effortlessly cool style this season.
- This summer dress from Banana Republic is equal parts elegant and contemporary, with airy linen fabrication and lust-worthy functionalities like side pockets. The simple fabrication provides comfort while the cut of the dress packs a punch of quiet luxury style with a deep- plunging neckline. Its versatility for various body types and occasions placed it at the top of our summer wish list, just like other best summer dresses that were highlighted in this shopping guide. Dress it up with statement jewelry for a swanky outdoor summer soirée or pair it with trendy flip- flop sandals for casual summer brunches and daytime excursions. It comes in two popular colors, butter yellow and white, both of which are seasonally trending.
Editor’s Choice
Skims Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress
Size range: XXS to 4XL
Colorways: Onyx, Heather Gray, Bone, Camel, Cherry Blossom, Sugar Plum, and more
Materials: 91% modal, 9% spandex
The Skims Soft Lounge Slip Dress put the shapewear brand’s clothing pieces on the map, and this cool, casual summer dress has received a whopping 109 million views and searches. Its ribbed, modal fabrication is exceptionally soft and breathable for hot weather, while its stretchy, snatching material is renowned for its flattering and transformative fit that even forgoes the need for shapewear. Its maxi hem makes it suitable for more formal occasions, but you can also put it on to run errands or stay cozy while board a plane.
Editor testing and review notes:” I own three Skims slip dresses, and you can find me wearing one of them nearly any day I’m working from home and on the weekends under a lightweight or a leather jacket. They do n’t pill or fade over the course of several wash and dry cycles, and they’re incredibly stretchy and flatteringly form-fitting.
Price upon publish date of this article:$ 80
Editor’s Choice
Reformation Aubree Linen Dress
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Vineyard, Slate Check, Sundried Tomato, Rose Petals, Parmesan, and Black
Materials: 100% linen
Linen is a fantastic summer dress to have on your shopping list, and Reformation’s Aubree style is a sweet and straightforward way to get away from the office to a hot European getaway. Its fits snug at the bust then drapes to a relaxed fit, with the option to adjust the hemline with hand- tied straps you can fasten as bows. You can frolic down the coast or slurp up all the spaghetti on your” Roman holiday” thanks to the comfortable fit of the style and its cling to the torso.
Editor testing and review notes:” I’m officially on my second summer fling with the Aubrey and it remains my favorite sundress in my wardrobe. It is so light, cozy, and simple to style for a variety of occasions, whether it’s an engagement party or a dinner date. The tie straps are adorable and make adjusting the hem a breeze, and its square neckline looks so chic — I find it beautifully flatters the décolletage while providing tasteful coverage”.
Price at the time of publication:$ 98.
Editor’s Choice
Banana Republic Ava Linen Midi Dress
Size range: XXS to XXL
Colorways: Butter Yellow and White
Materials: 100% linen; 100% cotton lining
The trapeze-style European linen dress from Banana Republic has a flowy fit, a tasteful V-neckline, and two handy side pockets. Its” swing fit” hem falls just above the knee, offering a conservative silhouette for the office or formal summer events, while its minimalist feel bodes well for styling with, pumps, or layers upon layers of gleaming jewelry. Whether you opt for the trendy butter yellow hue or the crisp white colorway, the skirt is fully lined with cotton, so you wo n’t feel any sheerness.
Price upon publish date of this article:$ 109.99
Liza Drop-Waist Midi Dress for Free People
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Black, Off White, Pink, Yellow, Green, Blue
Materials: 97% cotton, 3% spandex
Drop waist dresses are all the rage for summer from street style to the runways. This Liza midi dress from Free People has a flattering slim-fit that is ruched down to the waistline and flows out of a trendy bubble skirt that extends to the middle of the calf. It features adjustable tie straps and an overall stretchy feel, so you can rest- assured it’ll fit you like a glove.
What customers ‘ feedback is this:” I adore the drop waist and how the material feels. It’s not a super fancy dres, s but a more so a cute casual vibe. The body is a nice shape because the sizing is fairly accurate and the body fits tighter.
Price upon publish date of this article:$ 78
Abercrombie Tie- Front Textured Maxi Dress
Size range: XXS to XL
Colorways: White, French Blue, Pastel Yellow, and Black
Materials: 97% polyester, 3% elastane
No summer capsule wardrobe is complete without a flouncy white dress. This Abercrombie pick has our hearts in our editors ‘ eyes as it falls at a maxi hem, has puff sleeves, and features seersucker texturing. It also has built- in pockets and waist- cinching smocking that you’ll love from Sunday brunch to happy hour and beyond.
Price at the time of this article’s publication:$ 96.
Quince 100 % Washable Silk Slip Dress
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Moss Green, Grey Lilac, Ethereal Blue, Ruby Noir, Champagne, Black, and more
Materials: 100% mulberry silk
Although silky slip dresses are inexpensive, they can be found in a lot of stores. This luxuriously smooth and shiny frock from Quince rings in below$ 80, which is a true steal considering that it’s made with high- quality mulberry silk. With an easy midi hem, a slight V-neckline, and a shiny satin finish, it can be found in over a dozen color combinations to go with your summer wardrobe. Team it with pumps and a shawl, and this easy piece transforms into a great
Editor testing and review notes:” Practically speaking, I live in slip dresses in the summer, so I’m always looking for affordable options when I do n’t want to worry about staining my more expensive options.” Here’s the thing about Quince’s slip dress: It feels as luxurious as slip dresses in my closet that cost triple the price. I have no complaints besides snipping a few loose threads after wearing it a dozen times. It’s chic, simple, and has a flattering fit”.
Price at the time this article was published:$ 79.90.
Zimmermann Lightburst Puff Midi Dress
Size range: 4 to 12
Colorways: Red Floral
Materials: 100% cotton
This Nordstrom- exclusive number exemplifies everything you need in a standout summer dress: Free- flowing comfort, cotton breathability, and a sweet feminine floral print we’ve seen trending from to. Due to its gathered bodice and slim strapping, its voluminous fit wo n’t make you feel sluggish. We rate it as a, but it’s equally cool under a denim jacket for a day at the vineyard.
Price at the time of publication:$ 795
Alo Yoga Alosoft Courtside Tennis Dress
Size range: XXS to L
Colorways: Navy, Botanical Green, Lilac Blue, Black, and White
Materials: 87% polyester, 13% elastane
Alo Yoga’s bestselling tennis dress will keep you looking and feeling cool on and off the court. For added comfort and security, this stretchy, soft dress has a snug bodice, an A-line skirt, and a built-in shelf bra and shorts. Its sweetheart neckline brings a subtle dose of feminine flair, while the simple silhouette acts as a blank canvas for all kinds of tenniscore- inspired styling.
Editor’s note:” I ordered this dress for a pickleball party two summers ago, thinking I’d wear it once in a blue moon when I need athletic gear that does n’t read overly sporty. In the time since, I’ve found myself gravitating towards it as a cute base for weekend outfits — it has the look of a miniskirt when I layer an oversized button down or sweater on top. The thin straps and unbelievably soft fabric give it a feminine feel.
Price upon publish date of this article:$ 118
Madewell Mini Shirt Dress in Denim
Size range: 00 to 16
Colorways: Palermo Wash
Materials: 76% cotton, 21% hemp, 3% elastane.
Madewell’s on-trend wo n’t weigh you down in the sweltering heat. Its stretchy cotton fabrication keeps it from feeling stiff, while short sleeves and functional buttons avoid stuffy discomfort. Although it’s described as a mini shirtdress, the hem just above the knee, making it look good at work as well.
What testers say:” I ca n’t believe how many compliments I got when I wore this dress! It looks great with cute espadrille sandals, flats, or sneakers. It’s so comfy and has a bit of stretch so it fits perfectly”.
Price upon publish date of this article:$ 118
Banana Republic Odile One-Shark Knit Dress
Size range: XXS to XXL
Colorways: White, Navy Blue, and Black
Materials: 100% cotton
Look to Banana Republic’s Odile One- Shoulder Knit Dress for a dress that reads formal but is secretly super comfy. This elegant and clean- cut number flashes a bare shoulder in breezy jersey fabric that’s ideal for cool summer date nights or dressy occasions. It has a sweeping trapeze cut that extends below the knees and a hidden cotton poplin hem that adds weight to its swinging shape.
Price upon publish date of this article:$ 180
What to Look For When Shopping for a Summer Dress
- Material:” Natural fabrics are best for the warmer weather”, explains, founders of the Australian label Sir. ” For instance, linen and cotton are ideal for layering with swimwear because they have open weaves that keep you cool and dry,” says one expert. Silk is another summer- friendly fabric because it feels cool to the touch, can help regulate your body temperature, and even has moisture- wicking properties.
- Silhouette and cut: When deciding what kind of summer dress you want, take into account the occasion to which you’ll be wore it. For example, midi and maxi dresses are usually more appropriate for formal occasions, though they can also play quite casual for a summery date night depending on the styling. For day-to-night off-duty activities, short hems and mini summer dresses are the best options. Once you’ve decided on the cut, find a silhouette that suits your taste. For instance, if you’re a maximalist dresser, try out fun puff sleeves or halter necks to give a classic summer dress some flair. Strategically placed cutouts are also great design elements to seek since they will enhance your figure and add breathability to your outfit.
- Versatility: Depending on how you style it, you’ll want to invest in a style that can be worn for a daytime beach trip or a more extravagant occasion. ” We always have in mind the versatility of a piece so that the dress alone can work both ways”, says, the designer of Sea New York. The right jewelry and shoe pairing can transform the look into either day or night. For the minidress, I like a barely- there shoe such as a thin strap sandal so it’s like you’re running around barefoot”.
- Color: When buying a new summer dress, pay attention to the muted hues that can serve as a neutral. Organic fabrications like linen tend to come in beachy neutrals that pair beautifully with tonal or, while crisp whites not only look fresh and feminine, but also lend themselves to all the colorful accessories you’ve been stocking up for the summer season. Trending colors like butter yellow, sage green, and sky blue can all be used as soft backdrops for classic, juicy summer colors like cherry red and sunset orange.
Cute Summer Dress Trends for 2024
If you’re looking for the ideal summer silhouette to embrace, look to this season’s runway trends for inspiration.
- Denim summer dresses: Denim summer dresses are popular right now, as seen on recent street fashion looks from celebrities like Kelly Rowland, Rita Ora, and Jennifer Garner. Denim dresses are functional since they come in all types of silhouettes, from mini shirt dresses to floor- skimming smocked styles. Additionally, they can be dressed up or down in any way. When layered over a crisp blouse or shirt, a denim dress is just the thing to slot into your rotation of office attire. Go with a denim bustier dress and for the weekend.
- : The classic’ 90s slip dress silhouette is always in style for summer, as it serves as a nearly- naked fabrication that’s cool to the touch and bodes well for layering well into the fall. Glossy silk sheaths, which loom right into the upcoming season, were seen on the runways at and, and sheer lace paneling dominated the spring collections at and.
- Drop waist dresses: Flattering and chic, drop waist summer dresses are seeing a resurgence across top contemporary labels this season. Designers like and present sweetly sophisticated frocks with waistlines below the belly button, frequently in tight bodices that fan out a full, swinging skirt, on runways.
- : A summer shirt dress is a no- brainer capsule wardrobe staple that can take you from the office to weekend errands and on a vacay in style. The one-and-don silhouette can be worn as a button-down shirt dress or as a comfortable, casual cotton t-shirt dress. Labels like,,, and embraced shirt dress silhouettes in their recent collections.
- Tennis dresses: Whether it be the blockbuster red carpet styling of the” Challengers” movie or the enduring “quiet luxury” and “old money” style trends, tennis dresses have never been more popular. They serve as a functional fashion piece that can quite literally take you from a workout to brunch in serious style, and happen to come with exceptional comfort features like sweat- wicking fabrication and built- in bras.
What are the Best Summer Dresses to Wear?
Summer Dress Outfit for Weddings and Formal Occasions
Skims Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress
Shown by: ($ 398 ), ($ 58.50 ), and ($ 990 ).
Summer Dress Outfit for Beach Days and Casual Brunches
Reformation Aubree Linen Dress
Shown with: ($ 495 ), ($ 2, 500 ), ($ 325 )
Weekend Whimsy
Banana Republic Ava Linen Midi Dress
Shown with: ($ 78 ), ($ 80 ), ($ 725 )
How We Picked the Best Summer Dresses
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as” the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail, and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend reporting continues to be a reliable source for both fashion insiders and consumers. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert- backed product selections.
We spoke with three fashion industry experts to curate this list of the best summer dresses, providing style recommendations, product selections, and key information on dress fabrication, popular summer 2024 trends, and various occasion functionality. We chose the best summer dresses for women that reflect current and emerging trends, fabric and material innovation, durability, convertibility, and traditional design applications. We also compared customer feedback ratings, conducted market research, and analyzed the product testing of our own editor.
Meet the Experts
is a famous fashion stylist with a New York base. Named one of the” Most Powerful Stylists”, by The Hollywood Reporter, her A- list clients include Meryl Streep, Lupita Nyong’o, Common, Diane Kruger, Sigourney Weaver, Lucy Hale, Amanda Hearst, and Shailene Woodley.
are the owners of the Australian label, Sir. They established Sir in 2014 when both were only 24. Since then, their strong of vision has propelled the brand into respect for its singular, unwavering aesthetic. Maintaining an aspirational yet inclusive appeal centered on Australian culture has been paramount to Sir’s development, values that continue to guide its evolution as Campbell and Coote push the brand to new heights. With collections that consistently capture international demand and nimbly balancing a chase for new customers with honoring its expanding, devoted fan base, Sir has cemented their place in the industry by evolving its understated core aesthetic into a louder voice.
is the designer of Sea New York. Monica and her partner Sean joined forces in 2009 to launch Sea New York. Their previous roles include nine years as Design Director at Betsey Johnson and three years as Head Design Assistant at Jill Stuart. The two work together to find the theme of each collection, select fabrics and prints, detail designs, merchandise collections, style look books, manage the sales and brand strategy and oversee the production and delivery.
Meet the Authors
is a writer, editor, and brand consultant who has worked in the fashion industry for over eight years. She was born and raised in Brooklyn, California. When she’s not writing about the latest trends, Aemilia is running in prospect park, testing new recipes on her friends, and trying to keep up with her New Yorker subscription. The original version of this summer dress story for 2022 was written by Madden.
is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes and edits shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Emerson College awarded her bachelor’s degree in journalism, and Cigliano’s work has appeared in publications like CR Fashion Book and Elite Daily. She is currently based in New York City. This summer dress shopping guide for 2024 was updated by Cigliano using new products from retailers, editor’s picks, and fresh summer fashions.