As the weather warms up, we're storing away those chunky knit sweaters and donating items from past seasons. With the cleared-out space, it's finally time todig out those summer pieces and shop for of-the-moment items as well. After all, when the days feel longer (thankful for that 8:30 p.m. sunset), we're more likely to come out of our homebody shells to attend that group happy hour or weekend picnic. And we will all need a cute dress or two to wear for that golden hour photo.
If you believe in spending your summer days in something flirty and new, you've come to the right place. We've done the window shopping for you by finding the latest It dresses to add to your wardrobe. The budget we set for ourselves? Anything under $200. This season's selections aren't lacking in style or function: Brands like Farm Rio have graced us with affordable vacation-ready dresses and Faithfull the Brand supplies the flirty, feminine minis for happy hour, while Almina Concept offers a slip for every occasion. From brunches and first dates to summer weddings, you'll find the perfect dress ahead that provide head-turning compliments and minimal wallet suffering.
With short puff sleeves and a round neckline, this midi dress is an everyday piece with special occasion style. You can wear it to a friend's birthday party or to work—just dress it down with a cool pair of sneakers or lace-up sandals.
This sweet slip dress showcases the winning combination of a simple silhouette and a beautiful print. Patterned with blooms, the midi style is cut from a lightweight drapey crepe fabric for a comfortable all-day wear.
Act surprised when you get a million compliments on this beautiful fruit print dress with a sweet ruffling neckline detail. (The print was designed in-house, so you won't find it anywhere else.) The fabric of the dress hugs but doesn't cling too tightly to your body.
The 2020 minidress version of Molly Ringwald's Sixteen Candles gown. This ruffle dress is a sweet and summery piece that lets you channel your girly girl side.
Get this classic shirt dress into your wardrobe for infinite styling options. You can wear it with sandals, sneakers, booties, loafers, and more. The dress is made in a relaxed fit with a curved hem and you can easily roll up the sleeves for a more casual look.
A breezy midi that can be worn to anything, from summer weddings to casual afternoon coffee dates with your BFF. The pale blue color is reminiscent of a clear spring day while the pretty florals give off flower field vibes.
Looking for affordable, super casual dresses for your bridesmaid crew? Consider this minty green option, which has a middle slit perfect for showing off your heels. The sweetheart neckline is flattering and the flowy fabric makes it great for warm-weather seaside ceremonies.
With a sweetheart neckline, pretty flowers, and swing to spare, this Capulet babydoll dress is a completely charming choice for summer. Pare back with simple strap sandal to balance out the voluminous silhouette.
This minidress is imbued with a spring-appropriate pastel blue color and detailed with an understated pattern. Ruffles accentuate the feminine look of this silhouette while ties at the waist keep things tidy.
For the minimalist in all of us, this slip dress is the effortless piece you need to throw on for an evening out with the girls. You can dress it up with heels or down with casual footwear like a pair of Birkenstocks.
A voluminous midi dress we're dreaming about wearing on picnics at the park (once we're out of lockdown mode). The piece features exaggerated dropped shoulder puff sleeves and is made from sustainably sourced material.
This utilitarian minidress can be layered with a light cardigan for brisk mornings or worn alone once the temperatures rise. This piece features a wrap-style front with an adjustable belt and adjustable shoulder straps.
There's nothing better on hot summer days than a light and airy maxi you can throw on without a second thought. This chiffon printed dress with long balloon sleeves is simple, chic, and partially made from recycled fabric. Did we mention it's also under $50?
Embrace a multitude of colors in this asymmetrical hem floral print dress. It's machine-washable (always a plus) and makes a grand statement all on its own so you can go simple on accessorizing.
Two details you'll see everywhere this summer: square necklines and puff shoulders. This & Other Stories piece has all the trends, which easily makes it your new favorite summertime dress.
Sport and feminine, this pink dress gives us the fun and fresh vibes we want all summer long. The tie-front cinches your waist to show off your curves. Style with a laidback pair of white sneakers.
As soon as we can, we'll take that much-needed vacation and pack this printed dress with us. Let the ocean breeze catch your dress and reveal a peek of skin thanks to that thigh-high slit.
When it's too hot to wear jeans, bare your legs in this denim dress. It's structured but not stiff and like your favorite pair of skinnies, can be easily dressed up with other pieces, like a bright colored shoe, in your closet.
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Taylor AyersTaylor Ayers is fashion editor at Marie Claire covering the new editorial fashion trends, looks, and contemporary styles.
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