The summer season is officially in full swing. With temperatures rising, many fashion folks are reaching for breathable hot-weather finds. Dresses are the perfect one-and-done garment to carry style enthusiasts through the scorching months ahead. As a fashion editor, I'm constantly looking for affordable ways to tap into my favorite trends, and dresses are no exception. On a recent browse of all my favorite retail hot spots, I found so many pretty summer dress options I can't stop thinking about. I decided to compile a list of these great pieces to help you give your wardrobe a much-needed summer refresh.
You can expect dresses of all shapes and colors, from tiered, billowy looks to those with sleek construction. I've identified a variety of frocks that are perfect for the rising temperatures ahead. Keep scrolling to uncover your new favorite dress.
You really can't go wrong with Rails.
Pack this backless beauty for your next tropical vacation.
I'm not usually a huge fan of cutouts, but they look so cute on this dress.
Prepare to be the best dressed wedding guest.
The pieces from the LSpace x Anthropologie collection are so good.
I'm loving the fringe details.
So pretty.
Fashion people have sold this dress out across multiple retailers. Get it while it's still available.
Stunning.
Sometimes, simple is best.
I've never seen such a sophisticated minidress.
Farm Rio dresses are made for summer frolicking.
The embroidery is so beautiful.
Bring on the linen.
For a summer night out, try this beauty.
Pair with simple heels of your choice.
Pilcro strikes again.
This subdued lavender slip dress is so chic.
I can't believe this is less than $70.
Such a cool vibrant green.
Mob wife takes summer.
Yes, please.
The belt is a nice touch.
Gimme puffed sleeves all summer long.
I can't believe how affordable this dress is.
Nordstrom-branded items make up some of the best online shopping deals you can score right now.
An affordable dive into the bubble-hem trend.
It's halterneck season.
For any upcoming wedding events.
Such a lovely shade of blue.
I'm all about this bright raspberry-pink coloring.
Sunshiny.
The perfect LBD for summer.
This halter minidress from Eloquii is now $80.
So gorgeous.
Pair with thong sandals and straw tote for an easy getaway outfit.
Drop-waist everything has been my personal obsession as of late.
Chartreuse dresses always look so good.
Beautiful smocking.
Adding to my cart immediately.
This can double as a great cover-up.
Our editors are loving this Free People frock.
This buttery yellow dress is bound to sell out.
I recently saw Remi Bader wearing this dress online, and I haven't been able to get it out of my head since.
I'm loving this pop of red.
Score some A&F favorites on sale right now.
The handkerchief hem is everything!
This beauty is screaming date night.
Gingham looks best in warmer weather.
A no-fuss dress.
So gorgeous.
Although this beauty is pretty simple, it has an elevated feel.
Summer-weight knits are a must.
Try out this classic shift.
So cute.
This style can be dressed up with heeled sandals or dressed down with cool white sneakers.
Wear as is or throw it on over your favorite jeans or linen pants for a fun, trendy look.
Asymmetrical details are always going to be a favorite of mine.
This festive dress screams OOO.
-
What to Buy for Fall If You Don't Want to Regret It Next Year (or the Year After)Investments only.
-
The Top 10 Things to Buy This September If You Want Cooler Outfits and More ComplimentsFall is in full swing.
-
These 32 Chic Zara Fall 2025 Shoe Finds Are the Key to Looking Like a Fashion Person—Good Luck Picking Just One PairPrepare for endless compliments.
-
Abercrombie Sucked Me Back Into Its Orbit With These 25 Incredibly Chic Fall 2025 FindsSo, so good.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—27 Incredibly Chic Fall Finds That Will Get You More Bang for Your BuckStellar under-$150 finds right this way.
-
These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)Here's to effortless outfits.
-
Don't Blame Me If They Sell Out While You Read This—35 Chic Zara Finds That Need Your Immediate AttentionThese won't be around for long.
-
I'm So Not Ready for Fall—16 Pretty Tops From Zara and H&M I'm Shopping to Keep the Summer Vibes GoingPolka dots and halters ahead.
