Getting dressed in the sweltering heat is the bane of my existence. My trick for tackling the season is to rely on easy, one-and-done summer dresses to create a healthy rotation of cute outfits. Now that hot sunny days are the norm, I could use a refresh of my dress collection, but I won't be breaking my budget to do so.
Instead of racking up my credit card on a designer style, I'll be turning to tried-and-true affordable retailers, including Aritzia, Cos, and Mango, for wallet-friendly summer dresses. Between the three brands, I've built a long wishlist of dresses in summer's top color trends, prints, and silhouettes that work for every upcoming event I have on my calendar. Better yet, the rich-looking dresses below are budget-friendly with a price tag of $150 and under.
Ahead, find my favorite summer dresses from Aritzia, Cos, and Mango for your shopping pleasure. From rooftop hangs and al-fresco happy hours to summer weddings and weekend brunch, I've got your outfit for any warm-weather occasion covered.
The smocking on this dress is too fun.
This find takes out all of the work of putting together the editor-famous white skirt outfit.
Polka dots are back in a big way this summer.
If this poplin dress doesn't scream "summer," then I don't know what will.
This flowy number fits summer's boho fashion trend to a T.
This would make for a darling summer wedding guest dress.
This dress is made from breathable cotton so you'll stay comfortable on sweltering days.
Gingham dresses are a summer trend I can't get enough of.
This blood orange slip dress is practically guaranteed to turn heads.
Stripes are always a good idea, no matter the season.
I may have let out an audible gasp when I came across this cobalt blue pick.
How adorable would this mini look with white ballet flats?
Prepare to see olive green everywhere this summer.
This chic number would work well beyond the beach.
This trendy cobalt blue shade is simply to die for.
You could style this easy shirtdress is about a hundred different ways.
Wear this dress to a summer wedding to signal that you're a fashion girl.
This layered number oozes minimal, girl-cool energy.
Pretty eyelet embroidery takes this black sundress to the next level.
This dress belongs on your vacation packing list.
A black mini dress is a must have.
Your summer workwear collection deserves this rich-looking number.
I'm convinced you would feel nothing but joy while wearing this cheerful shade.
I need a wedding invite in my mailbox ASAP so I have an excuse to buy this gorgeous slip.
This dress may seem simple, but wait until you see its strappy back.
I would wear this to a fancy vacation dinner in a heartbeat.
This dress looks even more adorable on the Mango model.
