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    26 Summer Dresses For Folks Who Think Pants Should Be Illegal Once The Weather Is Over 80 Degrees

    Once you get a look at these darling dresses, your pants won't stand a chance.

    1. A full length floral dress for days when you plan on meandering around a flower-filled meadow. Or, at least, looking like you're off to do that when in reality you're running errands until the sun goes down.

    model wearing tiered summer dress in meadow
    Goodful

    Get it from our Goodful shop for $198 (available in sizes XS–L).

    2. A halter-neck sundress that'll have you looking like the celebrity you know you should actually be while walking the streets of your neighborhood. Jennifer Lawrence, is that you?? 

    reviewer wearing red and white polka dot dress
    reviewer wearing green dress with belt

    Promising review: "This purchase completely exceeded my expectations. Dress is well made and SOFT. It’s also has a slip underneath, which is awesome — no fear of undies showing! Waist is elastic. Comes with a detachable belt so it can be worn with or without." —MsMGR

    Get it from Amazon for $41.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 28 colors).

    3. A cult-favorite tiered baby doll dress with a light-as-a-feather fabric for folks who wanna live their best cozy-chic style no matter how sweltering the sun may seem. 

    Reviewer in a deep maroon 3/4 bubble sleeve babydoll dress
    Reviewer in a pale sage green version of the dress
    Free People

    Promising review: "So basically I want to be buried in this dress. It is so lightweight and flowy but still well made and not see through. It hits a couple of inches past my fingertips so not too short. I got it in black and will definitely be ordering it in another color, maybe two!" —Purple53000

    Get it from Free People for $68 (available in sizes XS–XL and 12 colors). 

    4. A puff-sleeve pastel maxi dress so you can run through lush countrysides as if you're starring in your own Jane Austen novel. Hello, Lady Bennett.

    reviewer wearing the dress with the sleeves down to show their shoulders. it is fitted in the center and flowy at the bottom.
    reviewer wearing dress in black with sheer panels showing when hit by the sun

    Promising review: "Ethereally beautiful!! This dress is absolutely LOVELY. It’s so lightweight, breezy, and comfortable. It fits perfectly, and the bodice has plenty of stretch so if you’re in between sizes, you could go either way. I actually sized down because I wanted to wear it on the shoulders and didn’t want the sleeves slipping off, but I didn’t have an issue with that at all. It’s wrinkly when it arrives, but a quick steam makes it look so much nicer and more expensive than it is. I got the sage green color and it’s not see-through, it’s beautiful. (I actually returned it in favor of a color I thought I’d wear more, but if green is your fave then you’ll love it). Get this dress!" —Laura

    Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 28 colors).

    5. A loose-fitting gingham swing dress that's basically begging to be worn while you and your boo lay out on a picnic blanket during movie nights at the park. It's hard to say who you end up loving more, your date...or this dress.

    reviewer wearing the sleeveless, knee-length, checkered yellow dress
    reviewer bathroom selfie in the dress

    Promising review: "I love this beautiful dress. I shared it on my blog and people loved it! Runs true to size and it's double lined, so it's not see through and doesn’t lay funny on the stomach area. I'm wearing this piece for Easter and all summer long (pictured above, left)." —Sherlin

    Get it from Amazon for $35.99 (available in S–XXL and in 24 styles).

    6. An open back stunner with a ruffled hem and smocked bodice — this piece just might be the dress of your vacationing dreams.

    reviewer sitting in hotel lobby wearing dress in blue
    reviewer wearing dress in orange standing in front of mural wall

    Promising review: "I have been wanting this same dress from Free People but it was $118. I was leery about this considering it was much cheaper in cost but it is PERFECT! Keep in mind you can't wear a bra with it and if you are larger busted (I'm small, an A cup) then it may fit totally different. It's thin and lightweight but with skin-colored undies, I had no problem with lines or visibility. I'm considering buying it in another color. 😍" —Bullitt02797

    Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and in 26 colors).

    7. A maxi shirt dress you can wear buttoned up on its own or free flowing with another piece underneath. Warm weather layers are the light of my life. And this piece is already being shipped to my apartment (honestly).

    reviewer wearing shirt dress at home while sitting on sofa
    reviewer wearing the dress in a layered look while standing beside a horse

    Promising review: "Lovely! It was a bit big in the mid section, but I bought it oversized on purpose. It looks great with my chunky and thin belts! It's perfect for all seasons. I intend on wearing it this summer and then adding leggings for fall." —AMA

    Get it from Amazon for $29.88 (available in sizes XS–XXL and 16 colors).

    8. A ribbed tank top dress — this simple piece would rock with sneakers, sandals, boots, jackets, or ALL on its own (shoes are overrated anyway).

    model wearing dress in white with black boots
    model from behind in the dress
    Everlane

    Promising review: "I will wear this so much this summer. It was a great buy. The cotton is thick enough while still being breathable and comfortable. I love that the straps are cutaway and yet bra-friendly. It's a lovely cut on the upper body. I got black, and I'm likely going back for white." —Sunny Day

    Get it from Everlane for $78 (available in sizes XXS–XL and in three colors).

    9. A charming open-back dress designed with a V-neck, sheer lantern sleeves, and a fringed frame that'll have you whirling and twirling every chance you get.

    Curvy reviewer wearing the dress with a tan hat
    reviewer at wedding dress shop looking at outfit in large mirror

    Promising review: "This dress is super cute. Material is nice and not see-through." —Allison

    Get it from Amazon for $39.98 (available in sizes S–XL and in 34 colors).

    10. A simple and chic bodycon midi sure to be perfect in every environment you could end up in, whether it's on the boardwalk, brunch at your favorite restaurant, or a night at an amusement park.

    reviewer wearing spaghetti strap dress in front of wall mural
    reviewer wearing dress in yellow while at brunch

    Promising review: "This dress is so cute!! It really hugs and accentuates your curves. The fabric is super soft and almost fleece like on the inside. (But it's not see through or light.) It is so comfy I could literally sleep in it. I bought it for New Years, but 10/10 would wear for any occasion." —Julianne

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and in seven colors).

    11. An off-the-shoulder dress with a cut-out scalloped hem that'll add a peekaboo detail without feeling revealing. 

    Reviewer in yellow version of the dress, which falls mid-thigh and cinches at waist
    reviewer in black version

    Promising review: "I always get nervous when purchasing clothing on Amazon, but was very happy with this purchase. The material is a decent weight and the cutouts at the bottom of the dress are done nicely. I'm 5'5" and the dress hits just above my knees. I don't like my clothes tight, so purchased a 3X. It's loose and flowy and hangs just right. Overall, I'm very happy with the dress. I would go a size up depending on your shape and how you like your clothes to hang." —Kathryn Mathewson

    Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in sizes 0X–4X and 13 styles).

    12. A ruffled party dress to put a spring in your step now that summer wedding season is in full swing. Twirl around in this sweet thing to help you forget that the venue doesn't have an open bar. Twirl...a lot.

    reviewer closeup shot showing bodice of dress and puffy sleeves
    different reviewier image of the tiered dress from the back. It hits above the knee.

    Promising review: "OH MY GOD. I was not expecting a lot from this dress but I absolutely love it. I bought it for a photo shoot. It’s soft and not stiff at all. It's also super comfy and not too short. I was worried about not wearing a bra but it looks perfect without one. It still makes me look like I have some boobs. 10/10 would recommend." —Hannah Jean

    Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 14 colors).

    13. A strappy number (with pocketssss) — the perfect, versatile choice for any summer event thanks to its simple yet sophisticated design and fun, fluttering fit.

    reviewer wearing dress at party with black heels
    reviewer in dress in yellow

    Promising review: "I ordered this for a wedding I was attending. This dress is definitely one of my favorites, and it was so comfortable! Don’t forget – the dress has pockets!! The fabric was on the thicker side which makes it feel well made, without being bulky. I especially loved how the top of the dress on the back goes from a high-low position (very feminine and unique). I received many compliments on my dress!" —Jackie

    Get it from Amazon for $45.70 (available in sizes XS–XL and 22 colors).

    14. A matching set you can wear when you feel like redefining what a casual, comfortable outfit can look like.

    reviewer wearing dress set in yellow in front of a tall bush
    reviewer wearing two-piece with shawl on boat

    Promising review: "Absolutely love, love, love this outfit! The material is great, skirt is nice and long; has two slits and HAS POCKETS!!!! It doesn’t feel like it’s going to slip down!" —DPET

    Get it from Amazon for $40.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 15 colors).

    15. A darling LBD for fashion-savvy souls who want some statement-making sleeves they won't sweat through in the summer sun. 

    reviewer wearing black midi bodycon dress with heels
    another reviewer wearing dress outside

    Promising review: "I cannot say enough about this dress; it is absolutely beautiful! Every review written here about this dress is true (length is below the knee, very elegant, material does have stretch to it, green as pictured, consider ordering a size up)." —Pawillia

    Get it from Amazon for $50.99+ (available in sizes XL–3XL and two colors).

    16. An embroidered linen pick with floral details all your ~buds~ are gonna be jealous of.

    short sleeve yellow dress with embroidered flowers. the reviewer is wearing the dress with flared jeans and flats.
    reviewer wearing the dress in green with gardening shoes

    Promising review: "This dress is absolutely gorgeous! The linen is good quality and the embroidery is beautiful and detailed. I ordered the green and it's much more of a vivid green in person rather than the screen. It is a soft linen and I barely used an upright vapor iron and it took the wrinkles out. There is no need for a slip. I really can't express how beautiful this dress is!! I think I just might order the pink one too!" —PGW

    Get it from Amazon for $41.99+ (available in sizes M–3XL and six colors).

    17. An off-the-shoulder mesh maxi dress for letting your figure speak for itself.

    reviewer wearing black dress
    reviewer wearing dress in white

    Promising review: "I love this dress! I got so many compliments and you will, too. The material is stretchy and high-quality so you can confidently buy it in your size. You have to find something to go under it yourself but you can't go wrong! " —Courtney Gardner

    Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in sizes S—3XL and two colors).

    18. A reviewer-loved loose tank sundress you may just end up turning into your entire summer wardrobe. Get this in *every* pattern and you're sure to be comfortable and lookin' cute all season long! 

    reviewer in blue sleeveless t-shirt dress with yellow, orange, and light blue patterns
    reviewer wearing dress at beach

    Promising review: "I wanted something new to wear around the house in hot summer afternoons with pockets for my cell, attractive, comfortable ad didn't require a bra. I didn't expect such a good fabric; it's thick and sturdy and stays free of creases. The scoop neck is high enough I can bend over and still be decent and the hem since I'm only 5'2" right above the knee. Best part of the fit is that it's not too snug so the waist is loose on me, my preference. The slight flare of the skirt makes sitting without it hiking up possible. All in all I'd buy it again." —Digna Irizarry Cassens

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in sizes S–3XL and 38 styles). 

    19. A short-sleeve V-neck wrap dress so you can put a ~wrap~ on your hunt for the best summer dress.

    reviewer wearing dress in red with hat and matching purse
    reviewer wearing the dress in blue

    Promising review: "I’ve never purchased clothing off Amazon but I took a leap of faith and bought this dress after reading some reviews. I’m not disappointed! I LOVE this dress. I feel so pretty in it and it’s the perfect dress to dress up in with some heels or dress down with my white Converse and a jean jacket. I got the dress for an anniversary dinner so the cleavage being shown wasn’t such a big deal. I can understand how it could be though; nothing a well placed safety pin can’t fix. I’d recommend looking at the sizing chart if you’re skeptical, but would overall recommend getting this dress!" —Desirea

    Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and in 29 colors).

    20. A bodycon mini to wear on mornings when you wake up wishing you were born in a different generation. Rock this retro look and spend the day pretending you're the star of a '90s rom-com. Rad.

    reviewer wearing the plaid dress
    reviewer wearing the plaid dress with a white tee underneath

    Promising review: "Y’all listen! This dress was super cute and comfy! I paired it perfectly with my sparkly Doc Martens for a fun night in NOLA and I'm ordering another. You won't be disappointed." —Rodneaa’

    Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 11 colors).

    21. A cotton-linen blend dress for cottagecore souls who want an outfit that says, "I spent the morning harvesting lettuce from my garden before heading to the farmers market to collect a batch of natural wool to dye before I turn it into yarn." That's what this dress says. Just listen.

    red polka dot and striped sleeved dress that hits just above the ankle
    side view of the same dress in a quilt pattern
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I have bought about 10 versions of this dress, all in different patterns. I wear them around the house, to sleep, and outside with a cute cardigan or jean jacket over them. They are soooooo comfortable. This is my favorite find on Amazon. Hope that is helpful for someone looking to purchase." —Rena Zilber

    Get it from Amazon for $32.39 (available in 11 styles).

    22. An airy tie-front dress you will ~knot~ wanna live without!

    reviewer wearing dress in green
    reviewer closeup of dress in yellow

    Promising review: "I am obsessed with this dress. It is much better than I expected coming from Amazon for this price. The material is definitely the type that needs to be steamed well to get the wrinkles out but other than that it's great! I'd say the color is a little more bright yellow than the picture appears. Fits true to size. If anything it's a little more scandalous than I thought because it does show more cleavage than expected and you can't really wear a bra with it but overall a great summer dress" —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $31.96+ ( available in sizes S–XL and 29 styles).

    23. A sleeveless bodycon sure to prove that when it comes to a sophisticated silhouette, less is so often much much more. 

    reviewer wearing dress in wine
    different reviewer wearing dress in blue

    Promising review: "I NEVER write reviews, but this dress is worth the review! I’m a month post-postpartum and it doesn’t even look that way when I’m in this dress. The way the dress is made is so perfect and the material is better than what I was expecting. It has the fitted look that I wanted! It’s definitely worth every penny!" —Patty Cunningham

    Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in sizes S–XL and 13 colors).

    24. A cami dress that'll be the cherry on top of your summer wardrobe.

    reviewer wearing dress with sneakers
    reviewer showing the dress from the back

    Promising review: "This thing is perfect. I have an hourglass figure, and the dress accentuates this greatly. I was worried the neckline wouldn’t be cut deep enough, but it’s great. I’m buying more. The fabric is thin but this will be awesome for the summer when it’s hot." —PNW

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 23 styles).

    25. A short-sleeve maxi — this is basically begging to be paired with a margarita in one hand and a beach read in the other. 

    reviewer wearing dress in large floral print with red, green, and yellow blossoms
    reviewer standing outside cow cafe decor in black and white dress

    Promising review: "First I got the yellow-flowered print – it fits perfectly on the shoulders and it's easy to slip on. It feels as if I'm wearing air! Or have become a billowing cloud. The pattern is very pretty, combining yellow, black, and white – unusually remarkable. It's been remarked on favorably every time I wear it. My husband loves it, strangers come up to admire it and most importantly, I love the way it makes me feel and look. I live in a hot summer climate and this dress meets the challenge. I liked it so much I've also gotten the red (I usually look horrid in red, but this one works) and am awaiting the blue. I wouldn't usually go this wild on spending but the cost of each dress is so low I'm stocking up. Added note: it washes well." —Charlotte O. Lowe

    Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes XXS–3XL and 31 colors).

    26. And finally, a flutter-sleeve wrap dress — a delicate, dainty dress made with a fabric that'll barely brush up against your skin. Linen is a summer staple for a reason, folks!

    model wearing the short-sleeved wrap dress in light blue
    Linen Fox / Etsy

    This small biz has been hand-making every piece of clothing from their line out of 100% linen in Kaunas, Lithuania, since 2014.

    Promising review: "This dress is amazing!!! I love it so much and have gotten so many compliments. People have reached out to me asking where I bought my dress and without hesitation send them right to Linen Fox. The dress is so comfortable and has great breathability in high heat. It also fits nice and snug while having plenty of fabric to loosen up and cover my legs without fear of my upper thighs showing as some wrap dresses do. I am so happy with my purchase and plan on adding another of this shop's pieces to my wardrobe soon." —Alexandra de Rivera

    Get it from Linen Fox on Etsy for $105.60 (available in sizes XXS–3XL and in 25 colors).

    All together now...what's our favorite season?!