When the temperature climbs above eighty degrees, I immediately reach for a summer dress. They're my hero for fighting sticky weather while still looking chic. This season, I'm expanding my collection by tapping into the most in-demand dress trends.
I obviously already own the best linen dresses and the cutest white options on the market. However, as a resident of New York City, I've observed chic women in the city are styling options I hadn't previously considered. So, I'm shopping for dresses that come in the most in-demand prints and colors I've spotted on the streets (such as chocolate brown, polka dots, and gingham), or ones that feature floaty, ruffled, boho-inspired silhouettes. And because I spend each day from May until September prioritizing comfort above anything else, I'm also picking up a few smocked dresses that come zipper-free: the definition of easy summer dressing.
Keep scrolling to see 2025's biggest summer dress trends worth investing in (and shop a few options from my favorite labels). There's something on this list for everyone, whether you're a die-hard minimalist or prefer to stand out from the crowd in true maximalist fashion.
Linen Dresses
Linen dresses are the perfect summer pick.
There's no doubt about it—linen dresses are fundamental to the perfect summer wardrobe. I found ones from go-to brands like Reformation, Alex Mill, and J.Crew that will give your usual lineup a much-needed mid-summer refresh.
Smocked Dresses
Smocked dresses are everywhere right now.
Smocked dresses have quietly saved my wardrobe this summer. The forgiving design is perfect to throw-on-and-go when I have no idea what to wear on the hottest days. My favorites include a bright Damson Madder find that I wear all the time and a floaty classic from Free People.
Chocolate Brown Dresses
Brown is summer's favorite neutral.
I live in all-black outfits, but chocolate brown is making a strong case as my favorite summer neutral shade. It brightens up my summer wardrobe just a bit without going out of my comfort zone. Plus, the Tobie Dress on this list is a favorite of Brooke Knappenberger, Marie Claire's Associate Commerce Editor (and it's on my to-buy list because of it).
Polka Dot Dresses
Dots are summer's It-print.
It's retro, but it's everywhere—the polka dot is summer's It-print. Already worn by Scarlett Johansson and Hailey Bieber, the print is making a strong comeback for 2025. Join in on the fun with one of these dotty styles, all of which retail for less than $200.
Gingham Dresses
Gingham is cool again.
If there were to be another major print trend for the season, it would be gingham. The look has been co-signed by Olivia Rodrigo at Wimbledon, cementing its must-buy status. It's another retro look that I can get behind, thanks to brands like Hill House Home and Ganni.
Boho Dresses
Boho blousy dresses are the perfect way to beat the summer heat.
Summer's boho fashion trend is going strong. Shop it for the months ahead by choosing floaty textures and romantic, floaty silhouettes. Sheer fabrics show skin without baring it all, making it perfect for scorching temperatures.
Babydoll Dresses
Babydoll dresses are surprisingly versatile.
Perhaps the most surprising fashion trend on this list is the rise of the babydoll silhouette. The drapey, sweet style is perfect for low-key days (especially during those odd heat waves) because it barely touches the skin.
