You’ll Want to Live in These Dresses All Summer Long (2024)

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Summer’s heating up! Well almost. Needless to say, easy, stylish, single-item outfits are more essential than ever, and we’ve handpicked the best summer dresses to wear from now until Labor Day weekend.

We’re most excited by dresses that show a little skin, like a slinky mini or an open-back halter knit. Both will have you more than ready for all your fun summer plans—travel, celebrations, and nights out. And there are a handful of other exciting dress trends to look forward to wearing this season: colorful crocheted knits, printed frocks in standout florals, and eclectic and groovy prints should you want to make a statement. You also need to prepare yourself for beach days, vacation plans, and, of course, wedding season. There are lightweight shirt dresses for the office and beyond, tube tops for sticky days, and minis that will make your heart melt, but keep you cool. All of that and more sweet styles of the best summer dresses to shop now, below.

Summer Whites

A simple white dress might not seem like much, but the perfect one can be a cure-all for summer style problems. Not only are they appropriate for just about every summer occasion, but these romantic, ruched, tiered, and ruffled-sleeve versions have also been dubbed as summer’s unofficial uniform. From mini to midi dresses, they allow for endless accessorizing options. Just swap your footwear, top it off with a summer bag of your choosing, and your white dress will feel new every time.

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Posse Kenzie open-back maxi dress

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Ulla Johnson Fiorella one-shoulder midi dress

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Charo Ruiz Irene tiered maxi dress

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Proenza Schouler twisted back maxi dress

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Saks Potts Cami halterneck midi dress

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Zara openwork embroidered midi dress

Vacation Versatility

While these dresses might read “out of office,” their cool silhouettes and seasonal prints make them quite versatile. A dress with the ability to transition from a swimsuit cover-up to a dinner out dress is key—especially when you’re packing for a vacation. Best of all, it will look even lovelier with a drink in hand.

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Hill House Home Thea nap dress

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Johanna Ortiz Escritura Quipu maxi dress

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Eywasouls Malibu Sally maxi dress

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Ulla Johnson Serafina ruffled tie-dyed maxi dress

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Themis Z Thalasso swirl-printed satin wrap dress

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Altuzarra Suberi dress

Hello, Legs

It’s about time we gave our legs a chance to be seen, and the best way to do just that is with a heightened hemline. You can and should take these mini but mighty options for a spin this season—after all, micro mini silhouettes have been a recurring trend on the runways.

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La DoubleJ Deck mini dress

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Staud Krista dress shell

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Sea Ryleigh mini dress

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Jacquemus Bahia draped knotted mini dress

Crafty and Crocheted

Dresses you can touch and feel—whether it’s a colorful crocheted knit, a fringe sleeveless option, or a swishy, sleeved beaded number—these textured dresses are totally swoon-worthy for summer 2023.

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SIMONMILLER x Mango knitted dress

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Simkhai Lenon midi tank dress

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Proenza Schouler Ribbon crochet maxi sweaterdress

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Alejandra Alonso Rojas Summer Club crocheted midi dress

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Massimo Dutti raised long dress

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Roberta Einer Bianca maxi dress

Dainty Day Dresses

A simple sundress is one of the most versatile pieces of the season. You can just as easily wear one as a beach cover-up as you could to a wedding (so long as you have the right accessories). If you pick a good one, the very same dress can be worn on weekend neighborhood strolls, park picnics, or even going out for a co*cktail or spritz. Airy and light, a floral day dress will be the hero piece in your summer wardrobe.

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Juliet Dunn floral midi dress

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Hannah Artwear Ari pleated floral-print midi dress

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Isabel Marant Étoile Gia ruched floral-print maxi dress

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SIR asymmetric maxi dress

Shirtdress Summer

How to feel polished for important Zoom meetings or stay cool on the commute to the office? A collared shirtdress or tunic will be sure to get the job done. Plus, these styles don’t look overly professional if you feel like taking one for a mid-afternoon stroll, work break, or as a casual dress option for the weekends too.

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Esse Studios gathered cutout maxi dress

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Derek Lam 10 Crosby Laurel sleeveless shirtdress

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Cos cutout-waist midi shirt dress

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See By Chloé striped midi shirt dress

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Bouguessa Lina maxi shirt dress

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Max Mara cotton-poplin dress

Summer Daze

For a modern approach to a quintessential summer print, look no further than these 2023 versions of gingham and check print day dresses. With elevated details like rosettes, floral overlays, and color blocked bodices, they are just as stylish as they are sweet.

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Rosie Assoulin halter neck midi dress

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Rhode Claude dress

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J.Crew Collection maxi dress

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Rixo Nicolette printed midi dress

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Hill House Home Sabrina dress

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Wiggy Kit square-neck gingham dress

Hot Tanks

Seen throughout our April 2023 story (shot in Jamaica and styled by Gabriella Karefa-Johnson), tank dress silhouettes in statement and psychedelic prints are on the rise for summer. We love styles from Marni, Louisa Ballou, and more.

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Marni Notte Giorno-print maxi dress

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Louisa Ballou Sea Breeze maxi dress

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Loewe Anthurium printed midi dress

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Mara Hoffman Ramona dress

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Staud Katie sleeveless midi dress

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Coperni floral mesh maxi dress

Totally Tubular

Of course, dresses make summer dressing a breeze, but these lightweight, strapless midis will keep you stylishly cool with every step thanks to their bouncy skirt silhouettes. They’re ideal for those too-hot-for-clothes kind of days or over swimsuits at the beach.

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Rhode Lisa dress

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Tove Lauryn strapless midi dress

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Casa Raki Penelope sleeveless midi dress

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Peony strapless midi dress

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Eres Ankara convertible maxi dress

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Faithfull the Brand Le Bon midi dress

You’ll Want to Live in These Dresses All Summer Long (2024)

FAQs

What is the girls in their summer dresses about? ›

The Girls in Their Summer Dresses by Irvin Shaw is about a married couple who is trying to enjoy their Sunday by spending time with another. As they are enjoying their time that enjoyment was short-lived because they begin to have a discussion that later turned into a disagreement.

What does the way you dress say about your personality? ›

Our clothing style can provide insights into our personalities. For instance: Classic and polished clothing styles often reflect a preference for sophistication, elegance, and timeless fashion. Bold and edgy fashion choices may indicate a desire for individuality, self-expression, and a rebellious spirit.

How does the way you dress affect us? ›

Our clothing becomes a reflection of how we are feeling on the inside. Furthermore, different types of clothing can also impact our behavior. Studies have shown that what we wear can affect our confidence levels, decision-making abilities, and even physical performance.

What is the central idea of The Girls in Their Summer Dresses? ›

The main theme addressed by Irwin Shaw in the short story “The Girls in Their Summer Dresses” is the theme of faulty relationships. Frances and Michael represent opposing ways of looking at the world and, eventually, their differences produce the conflict.

Why do guys like girls in summer dresses? ›

Functionality and Femininity.

Like we said, sundresses or summer dresses are flowy, perfect for the summer and they're pretty. They can be a little revealing sometimes, which play into the sexiness aspect, they make our butts look good, and they're comfortable. What's not to like?

What is the psychology behind wearing revealing clothes? ›

One part of the answer is that some girls feel confident if they receive attention for the way they dress. It's nice to be noticed. Often girls even dress to impress other girls, maybe even more than guys. But for many girls it's even more important to fit in.

What is the psychology of dress? ›

Psychology of Fashion Choices

According to studies, the clothes we are wearing might affect our emotions and conduct. For instance, research suggests that formal attire may encourage creativity and abstract thought. Dressing up increases critical thinking, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Do clothes affect personality? ›

Numerous studies have demonstrated the "enclothed cognition" phenomenon, which suggests that the clothes we wear can influence our cognitive processes and behavior. Dressing in a way that aligns with the desired outcome can impact our mindset and help us perform better.

What can clothing tell you about a person? ›

The type of clothes you wear – and the kinds of accessories you use to either jazz them up or tone them down – says a lot about who you are, where you're from, what you do and how you feel about yourself and others.

How does the way you dress affect your identity? ›

Clothing plays a vital role in shaping how we perceive ourselves and how others perceive us. Our choice of attire reflects our values, interests, and personality, allowing us to express our unique identity to the world.

What is the psychology of wearing expensive clothes? ›

People buy luxury goods despite not being able to afford them for several reasons, including a sense of irrationality, a belief that a higher price equals higher quality, a desire for higher self-esteem, and a desire for a sense of accomplishment.

How can I look attractive in summer? ›

If you're a girl, wear sundresses, tank tops, shorts partner up with cute matchy accessories. If you're a guy, wear loose shorts, casual shirts and a watch. Don't forget to wear sunscreen to avoid getting sunburn even if you're trying to get a tan. Wear minimalist makeup with SPF.

How to look chic in hot weather? ›

Stay Stylish in the Sun: 5 Expert Tips for Dressing Classy in Hot...
  1. Tip 1. Pick Only Natural Fabrics.
  2. Tip 2. Chooce Light Colors.
  3. Tip 3. When In Doubt, Wear a Dress.
  4. Tip 4. Have a Good Hat Collection. ...
  5. Tip 5. Opt for Minimal Jewelry.
  6. Want to Perfect Your Wardrobe?

What is the summer chic dress code? ›

This dress code is becoming more popular for weddings. A typical Summer Chic outfit is often in light and pastel colours, and lightweight materials such as linen and cotton.

What is the plot of the summer girls? ›

Adrift and penniless in California, Carson is the first to return to Sea Breeze, wondering where things went wrong . . . until the sea she loves brings her a minor miracle. Her astonishing bond with a dolphin helps Carson renew her relationships with her sisters and face the haunting memories of her ill-fated father.

What is the plot of the girls in white dresses? ›

Wry, hilarious, and utterly recognizable, Girls in White Dresses tells the story of three young women grappling with heartbreak and career change, family pressure and new love—all while suffering through an endless round of weddings and bridal showers.

Which is the central idea of the text the girls of summer? ›

Joining a post #MeToo discourse, The Girls of Summer grapples with themes of power, sex, and consent, as it explores the complicated nature of memory and trauma––and what it takes to reframe, and reclaim, your own story.

What is the theme of and the girls in their Sunday dresses? ›

A dynamic two-hander, taking on the topic of inequalities and state bureaucracy as a powerful tool of oppression.

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