20 best spring dresses you’ll never want to take off, according to fashion experts
Content is created by CNN Underscored’s team of editors who work independently from the CNN newsroom. When you buy through links on our site, CNN and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Learn more
From T-shirt dresses to romantic floral frocks, spring ushers in one of our favorite seasons (fashion-wise, at least): dress season. They’re the backbone of spring and summer fashion, after all. When you’re in a pinch, throwing on a pretty, flattering dress is one of the easiest ways to look pulled-together and chic.
According to Sarah Tam, Rent the Runway’s chief merchant officer, there are three main dress trends to look out for this spring. The first is muted pastels, a perennial favorite. Tam says these soft tones evoke a sense of serenity and sophistication, so they make for a natural choice when paired with the breezy, less-structured styles — like flowy dresses and skirts — that emerge each spring.
“Modern coquette” is another trend that’s been making waves since 2023 and continues this spring. The coquette aesthetic embraces all things girly, like bow-adorned accessories and frilly trims. When it comes to dresses, Tam says you’ll find “unabashed femininity through uber-feminine details such as fabrics adorned with delicate florals, cascading ruffles and flutter-like sleeves.”
Last but not least, florals are an obvious yet classic choice for spring fashion. And this season, Tam says florals are anything but boring or expected. “Floral patterns take an entirely new dimension, showing up magnificently blown up into large-scale expressions of art,” she says. These oversized floral prints are an easy way to add color and pizzazz into your wardrobe without much effort.
Check out these trends and more as fashion experts and our editors share the best spring dresses to wear all season long.
Editors’ favorite spring dresses
Merokeety 3/4 Balloon Sleeve Midi Dress
We're all about comfort, and this T-shirt style dress provides just that. We love the soft jersey material and the cinched waist that gives it a lovely silhouette. A great option for work or a day off, the laidback style comes in 11 striped colorways, along with eight solid shades if stripes aren't your thing.
Petal + Pup Tillie One-Shoulder Maxi Dress
This elegant one-shoulder dress will take you through spring garden parties, weddings and any other special occasions. The simple silhouette is surprisingly forgiving and the retro-inspired florals are even prettier in person. I can't wait to wear it to a summertime soirée. Just beware that the style runs a little large, so I would size down if you're on the fence.
A New Day Flutter Short-Sleeve Mini Poplin Dress
We're big fans of Target's spring fashion this year, including this affordable pick. As Tam noted, fashion is zooming in on florals this spring, with big, bold blossoms being favored over dainty ones. This dress taps into the trend with a flattering A-line silhouette and pastel palette.
Spring floral dresses
House of CB Tallulah Puff-Sleeve Midi Dress
Available in eight spring-ready colors and prints, including this delicate blue floral, this is the dress Danielle Carolan, content creator and podcast host, says she'll be re-wearing throughout the spring. "This might be my most flattering piece yet, I always get so many compliments!" Carolan gushes. "I love the puff sleeves, corset boning and slit."
Hill House Home The Matilda Dress
"This Hill House Home dress, with its ballet-inspired neckline, smocked back, puffed sleeves and a sprinkling of delicate flowers, embodies both femininity and fashion-forward elegance, making it a perfect choice for spring," Tam says.
Petal + Pup Kelda Floral Midi Dress
If florals aren't typically your thing, opting for a monochrome, neutral print is a great way to ease into the seasonal trend. This breezy dress features a button-up bodice, tiered skirt and tie at the waist to flatter all body types.
Casual spring dresses
Anrabess Casual Short-Sleeve Crewneck Swing Dress
An easy piece to throw on and go, this T-shirt dress can be worn as a beach cover-up or just out and about. Reviewers love how soft and lightweight it feels, as well as how it drapes on the body. Of course, we'd be remiss not to mention its convenient pockets too.
DVF for Target Collared Sleeveless Sea Twig Blue Sweaterknit Midi Wrap Dress
This versatile sweater dress is from Target's collaboration with Diane von Furstenberg. The designer popularized the wrap dress silhouette at her own label in the 1970s, and now the style is making a comeback. The Twig print is one of DVF's signatures, and you can get the look for less than $50.
Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Poplin Puff-Sleeve Midi Dress
"I have this puff-sleeve midi dress from Abercrombie in multiple colors," says Carolan. "The puff sleeves paired with a cinched waist are so flattering and it works well with sneakers, sandals or even a heel."
And if you love the style but are looking for something dressier, it also comes in a dreamy organza gown complete with a pretty bow.
Aligne Mateo Short-Sleeve Asymmetric Denim Midi Shirt Dress
Denim dresses are one of the big trends this spring, and we love this modern take. The fit-and-flare shirt dress has an asymmetrical hem (perfect for showing off some cute boots!) and comes in a classic blue wash. And a word of advice from reviewers — you'll want to size down for its roomy fit.
J.Crew Amelia Shirt Dress
A practical option for work or play, this dress plays with the coquette trend that Tam loves without being super obvious. The ruffled sleeves and hemline add a feminine touch, while the crisp poplin gives it a classic feel.
Fancy spring dresses
ASTR The Label Sibylla Maxi Dress
Tam says this long-sleeved dress is perfect for cooler spring temperatures. The flattering V-neck, tiered skirt and muted palette give it a feminine flair for any occasion.
Misook Fringe Trim Midi Wrap Dress
This pastel pink dress is loaded with personality thanks to the fringe hemline. It's one of those pieces that's sure to be a compliment magnet thanks to its simplicity, plus that little touch of something extra.
Reformation Vida Satin Dress
Flutter sleeves and a curve-skimming silhouette make this a super-pretty pick for a spring special occasion. While it looks like silk, the satin fabric is actually made from a material derived from wood pulp, making it a sustainable choice too.
Mango Printed Pleated Dress
This pleated dress drapes beautifully, enhanced by the long tie that trails along the back. The double strap detail also adds a bit of extra support for larger busts (and boob tape is always a great option to feel extra secure with a backless style like this).
Abercrombie & Fitch Plunge Cowl-Back Maxi Dress
Available in five spring-ready shades (which are all selling quickly, I might add), this beautiful satin dress is simple at first glance, but has subtle details that make it special. Namely, it features a plunging, cowl back that adds a sexy touch. Plus, it comes in petite, regular and tall sizing, so everyone can find the best fit.
Spring midi dresses
A.L.C. Remy Dress
Tam says this silk midi dress is a popular style among Rent the Runway customers. "This ALC dress captivates with its statement-making, large-scale floral print, guaranteeing to set you apart at any event," she says.
Banana Republic Eliana Cotton-Silk Dress
Breezy and effortless, this semi-sheer, lined dress strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and polished. The silk and cotton blend makes it a perfect weight for spring.
Helsa Faille Colorblock Midi Dress
"I'm obsessed with this chic dress from Helsa, because I love a drop waist, especially with a sweetheart neckline," Carolan says. We can see this styled with top trends like cowboy boots or Mary Jane ballet flats for a chic ensemble.
Gap Denim Midi Dress
This denim midi dress comes in white and a light wash. It has a utilitarian feel with patch pockets on the chest and a button front. Style it with sandals or sneakers for an easy, casual look.
Note: The prices above reflect the retailers' listed price at the time of publication.
For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
