20 Cute Summer Dresses for a Comfortably Cool Look
They're the best way to beat the heat.
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When it comes to a warm-weather wardrobe, cute summer dresses are always on the list. Scratch that—they're at the very top of the list, right above jean shorts, lightweight blousy tops, and even flip flops! After all, one of the best things about summer is getting to shed all of those layers for a few months before fall rolls around. Fun in the sun just wouldn't be, well, as much fun without a few affordable dresses.
While floral dresses often embody "spring," summer dresses, too, come in a vast variety of playful designs and styles. You can find bright pops of color, fun prints and patterns, and cute details like ruffles, tie straps, and tiered silhouettes. Of course, you'll find plenty of smocked dresses, too. If you're looking for something more sophisticated, that's doable as well: A crisp white dress paired with comfortable sandals works just as great at a beach party as a casual sundress does.
One of the most iconic summer looks, flowy maxi dresses, are another fun option to keep in mind. Lightweight and breezy, they're all perfect for sultry summer days and nights, while still offering leg coverage. You'll find a few cute options here, along with midi dresses, mini dresses, and knee-length dresses. Afterwards, you can top off your look with a retro-inspired pair of cat-eye sunglasses or a pretty straw hat.
Add to your summer wardrobe with these essentials:
Quince 100% Organic Cotton Poplin Tiered Mini Dress
Fun and flouncy, this mini dress is just what your seasonal closet needs. The silhouette is complete with a tiered skirt, flattering smocked waist, and vibrant color. It even has pockets!
Talk about walking on sunshine! This chic and breezy number would be just the thing to wear to a farmer's market or into town for dinner. It's made of comfy cotton with a stretchy smocked bodice.
With its all-over eyelet detailing topped with dramatic flare sleeves and a tassel neckline, this flowy pick is bound to be an instant favorite for the warm seasons ahead.
Old Navy Short-Sleeve Mini Swing Shirt Dress
Polished yet playful, this shirt dress would look charming with both sneakers and heels. Not to mention, that blue stripe just screams summer!
That bright and bold geometric and fruit pattern is just the beginning of this fabulous find! Other features like a square neckline, tie straps, and belted waist will carry you through the summer in style.
Old Navy Waist-Defined Embroidered Mini Dress
Because you need a little black dress for summer, too! Besides, this one is just plain pretty! That's thanks to the flutter sleeves, cinched waist, and contrast embroidered detailing.
Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress
Get ready to twirl! This pretty, smocked dress would look beautiful at the beach or at a backyard picnic—or basically any other summer event you can think of, too. It's soft, comfortable, and even has pockets!
Old Navy Sleeveless Linen-Blend Mini Shift Dress
Linen is a go-to when the temperatures start to rise. The famously lightweight fabric will keep you feeling cool and looking cooler—especially when paired with that adorable shift dress style with a fun, fruit pattern.
A carefree silhouette and cheerful gingham print make this dress a favorite for picnics, beach trips, and beyond! The tiered maxi skirt is just made for twirling in the sun!
The best part of this pick? You can dress it up or down to fit your every seasonal need. No matter how you wear it, the loose babydoll silhouette with ruffled sleeves and colorful florals will keep you feeling comfortable and looking stylish.
For a style that you can simply slip-on with sneakers or sandals, try this casual t-shirt sundress. From florals and paisley to bandana and geometric, it comes in plenty of lively patterns. Plus, it has pockets!
This beautiful dress will pair just as well with comfortable flip flops as it will fancy heels, making it an instant must-have. It's got a shirred bodice, self-tie sleeves, and a ruffle hem skirt.
Vibrant orange, pink, and blue florals make this dress a winner for the warmer months ahead! Add the ruffled skirt and breathable, breezy fabric for a pick you just can't pass up.
Get a summer camp feel—but for adults—with a fun tie-dye T-shirt dress. This one even has pockets! Major win.
These ruffles are too cute. You can dress this look up with colorful sandals or go more casual with a simple pair of sneakers. It comes in more than 30 fun prints and hues!
The bow and cut out details really elevate this simple white sundress. Pair it with a straw hat for the perfect summer look.
This dress is perfect for those who want a maxi feel without a hem that hits the floor. The tie-waist design gives the dress the perfect shape.
Elastic waistbands for the win! You'll love the breezy chiffon fabric of this understated dress, too.
New summer wardrobe staple alert! This super popular swingy dress features an irresistibly cool pattern and wrap-style closure. It comes in plenty of colors, too.
If you can't get away for a beach vacation this summer, you can bring the vacation to you with this cute maxi dress. Better yet, it comes in a wide range of vibrant colors and sizes!
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.
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