The 27 Best Summer Dresses to Wear for Casual and Formal Occasions
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.
The warm weather season calls for the best summer dresses. Not only is this one-and-done style the easiest way to make a fashion statement and beat the heat, but summer dresses are also an investment-worthy staple that can be worn for all occasions this season.
More from WWD
This season has ushered in an array of styles that will see you through everything from weekend escapes to office work days: Consider strapless cocktail dresses, casual linen dresses, cotton-poplin silhouettes, effortless slip dresses, and more. Top fashion designers like For Love and Lemons, Farm Rio, LoveShackFancy, and J.Crew have something to suit your sartorial requirements.
So, take stock of your current collection of summer dresses, and consider which of the season’s upcoming trends are worth mixing in with more standard silhouettes.
Keep scrolling to find the best summer dresses of 2023 from expert-approved brands. Then learn insider tips on what to look for when you’re shopping, plus more information on the summer dress trends for 2023.
Related:
Best Wedding Guest Dresses
Best Shirt Dress
Cute Sweater Dresses
Best Fall Dresses
Top Summer Dresses of 2023
Best Slip Dress: Sir Aries Cut Out Dress
Best Plus-Size Dress: Good American Compression Shine Tube Dress
Best Activewear Dress: Splits59 Airweight Dress
Best Versatile Summer Dress: Aje Mika Asymmetric Linen Blend Halter Dress
Best Vacation Dress: Ronny Kobo Corzo Dress
Best Maternity Dress: Farm Rio Summer Garden V-Neck Maxi Dress
Best Boho Dress: Prettygarden Boho Dress
Best Affordable Dress: The Drop Tent Dress
Best Dress on Amazon: Relipop Summer Dress
Best Long-Sleeve Dress: Exlura Dress
Best Strapless Dress: Likely Driggs Dress
Best Affordable Lace Dress: Astr the Label Midi Dress
Best Casual Dress: Free People Taking Sides Maxi Dress
Best Mini Dress: FRAME Asymmetrical Mini Dress
Best Linen Dress: Everlane The Linen Cut Bias Dress
Best Smocked Dress: Cos Tie-Detail Smocked Dress
Best Cotton Dress: Sea New York Addie Dress
Best Crochet Dress: Velvet Jacqueline Knit Dress
Best White Dress: Marcella Ashley Dress
Best Black Dress: Aya Muse Hyd Viscose Jersey Mini Dress
Best Silk Dress: Reformation Nottingham Dress
Best Jersey Slip Dress: Khaite Francine Dress
Best Designer Dress: Acne Studios Ruffle-Trimmed Midi Dress
Best Mother of the Bride Dress: Reiss Nina Cape Dress
Sign up for WWD Shop’s newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.
Sir Aries Cut Out Dress
Best Slip Dress for Summer
Sizes: 0 to 4
Material: Silk
Color: Chocolate, Ivory, Navy, Peach
Celebrity fans of the brand: Vanessa Hudgens, Kendall Jenner, Margot Robbie, Kaia Gerber, and more
Best for: Casual cocktail parties
Retailer availability: Sir, Mytheresa, Saks Fifth Avenue
Bondi-based brand Sir lives up to its sun-soaked roots through relaxed silhouettes that exude effortless, chic style. This silk design is a shining example with its delicate floral lace cutout detail and open back. It comes in many neutral hues like this peach tone which plays into the mermaidcore aesthetic and ideal for warm summer sunsets. Pair this dress with your favorite slip-on kitten heels.
Sir Aries Cut Out Dress
Sir Aries Cut Out Dress
Sir Aries Cut Out Dress
Good American Compression Shine Tube Dress
Best Plus-Size Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to 3XL
Material: 90% Nylon, 10% Elastane
Colors: Fuchsia Pink, Black
Celebrity fans of the brand: Sophie Turner, Gwen Stefani, Vanessa Hudgens, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, and more
Best for: Girls’ night out
Retailer availability: Good American, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom
Tube dresses are back in the zeitgeist and looking chicer than ever. This playful tube dress from Khloe Kardashian’s label, Good American, features a high-shine compression fabric that smooths and sculpts your body, hugging your curves in all the right places. Although it has a simple design, it’s a versatile base for outfits: You can opt for an all-neutral monochrome look or add splashes of color via a bright top handle bag and bold statement earrings.
What reviewers say: “Love this dress! Love the color! Makes me feel sexy!”
Good American Compression Shine Tube Dress
Good American Compression Shine Tube Dress
Splits59 Airweight Dress
Sizes: XS to XL
Material: 81% nylon, 19% spandex
Color: Black, Arugula, White
Celebrity fans of the brand: Miranda Kerr, Taylor Swift, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and more
Best for: An active girlie
Retailer availability: Splits59, Zappos, Revolve, Bloomingdales
Whether you’re working out or lounging in the park, Splits59’s Airweight Dress is for you. It features an ultra-lightweight fabric that’s moisture-wicking and is made to move with you — not against you. The built-in shorts offer subtle sculpting and keep the dress from riding up. Shoppers love that it comes in three different colors, so they can get away with owning more than one (and trust us, you’ll probably want to).
Splits59 Airweight Dress
Splits59 Airweight Dress
Splits59 Airweight Dress
Related: Best Workout Clothes for Women
Aje Mika Asymmetric Linen Blend Halter Dress
Best Versatile Summer Dress
Sizes: 0 to 4
Material: Linen
Color: Ivory
Celebrity fans of the brand: Eva Mendes, Kelly Clarkson, Camila Cabello, and more
Best for: Outdoor summer soirées
Retailer availability: Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue
If you’re on the hunt for a dress that’s beachy and dressy, this elegant linen halter dress from Aje is for you. It has a laid-back vacation feel but is nice enough to wear out to a cocktail party. It features an artfully draped, asymmetric silhouette with a unique cutout at the leg. The maxi length offers a bit more coverage and plays nicely with flat sandals or heels.
Aje Mika Asymmetric Linen Blend Halter Dress
Aje Mika Asymmetric Linen Blend Halter Dress
Ronny Kobo Corzo Dress
Best Summer Vacation Dress
Sizes: XS to L
Material: Polyester
Color: Rainbow Multi
Celebrity fans of the brand: Gwen Stefani, Shay Mitchell, Kate Upton, Katy Perry, Paris Hilton, and more
Best for: A night out in Miami
The cutout dress trend has been on the rise over the last few seasons, and don’t expect its popularity to slow down this summer. Ronny Kobo’s take features a multi-colored stripe print and a slick one-shoulder silhouette that feels sophisticated. The velvet-like material is light and soft to the touch, meaning you’ll stay comfortable all night long. The dress hits just above the ankles, so team it with strappy lace-up heels.
Ronny Kobo Corzo Dress
Ronny Kobo Corzo Dress
Farm Rio Summer Garden V-Neck Maxi Dress
Best Maternity Summer Dress for Women
Sizes: S to XL
Material: Cotton
Colors: Summer Garden
Best for: An Italian escape
Retailer availability: Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdales
If you’re always reaching for floral dresses during summer, try this Farm Rio maxi frock that’s replete with a tropical garden of florals, leaves, and parrots. The smocked drawstring waistband lets you stylishly show off your curves, while the lace-trimmed ruffled shoulders add some fun femininity. Wear it to weddings, garden parties, baby showers, bridal lunches, or on days when you’re craving something bold.
What reviewers say: “Exquisitely designed and beautifully made. Fits like a dream with a little bit more of a V-cut plunge than expected. Just adds to the fabulous.”
Farm Rio Summer Garden V-Neck Maxi Dress
Prettygarden Boho Dress
Best Boho Summer Dress for Women
Sizes: S to XL
Material: Polyester and spandex
Colors: Apricot, black, black brown, blue, coffee, green, grey blue, pink, polka black, spotted red, wine red
Best for: A coffee date
Retailer availability: Amazon
If you’re a fan of the drapey, relaxed feel of bohemian-inspired dresses, try this affordable option from Amazon. This Prettygarden dress has amassed over 2,000 five-star reviews, with many women calling out the compliments they received when they had it on. With a wide range of colors available, you can tailor your purchase to whatever occasion you may be shopping for.
What reviewers say: “It’s comfortable, cute and cool for summer. The only thing that could make it better would be pockets.”
Prettygarden Boho Dress
The Drop Tent Dress
Best Affordable Summer Dress
Sizes: XXS to 5X
Material: Tencel lyocell
Colors: Off-black, ginger, mushroom, navy
Best for: Keeping things simple
Retailer availability: Amazon
“I bought this dress on a whim and I love it. The material is really great quality and has a good weight to it. Every time I wear it, I get compliments,” writes one reviewer of this simple tank dress. Not only does the floaty, simple silhouette offer a relaxed option for those in need of an everyday summer dress, it also happens to have pockets — a handy staple that allows you to go purse free. The shoulder straps are adjustable as well, allowing for additional versatility in terms of fit.
What other reviewers say: “I ordered the white eyelet dress and was delighted when I saw how good the quality was. The fabric is thick, with a lining, and very well made. I am 5’ 7”, weigh 200 lbs and bought an XXL. It fits perfectly. It’s very wrinkled from packaging so I still have to figure out how best to get rid of the wrinkles. If spring/summer ever gets here I can’t wait to wear it!”
The Drop Tent Dress
Relipop Summer Dress
Best Summer Dress on Amazon
Sizes: S to XXL
Material: Polyester
Colors: Red, black, navy blue, and many more
Best for: Surviving a heatwave
Retailer availability: Amazon
A wrap minidress is a go-to way to elevate your everyday wardrobe and take your look from day to night. This dress from Relipop has over 30,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, so you know it’s been tried and tested. It comes in over 30 colorways and prints, which feature everything from red polka dots and yellow florals to a simple cobalt blue hue, and has a casual cut that can be dressed up with kitten heels or dressed down with platform sneakers. Reviewers note it fits true to size.
What reviewers say: “I really like this dress. In fact, athletic me normally looks terrible in dresses, yet this one is about the most flattering dress I’ve ever worn. Makes me look thin and flirty.”
Relipop Summer Dress
Exlura Dress
Best Long-Sleeve Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to XXL
Material: Polyester
Colors: Black, white, black floral, blue, peacock blue, pink, purple, red, wine red, yellow floral, hot pink, polka dot peacock blue, yellow, blue, polka dot light green
Best for: Beach parties
Retailer availability: Amazon
Sometimes, no matter the weather, you want a dress with long sleeves. This pretty option from Exlura is romantic and floaty with elastic sleeves and a ruffled hem. The back bow detail adds an additional feminine touch ideal for girly dressers. If you’re one to dress up for daytime occasions, try this dress on for size. Team it with strappy flat sandals and a wicker top-handle bag, or toughen it up with chunky combat boots for an unexpected combination.
What reviewers say: “I had this for months and never wore it for some reason. I finally put it in for Easter. It’s so cute. It’s thin but not see through. I’m wearing hot pink under this in the picture and you couldn’t see it at all. The sleeves are gigantic…like they are cute but VERY billowy. I’m wearing a medium and I’m 5’4- 135lbs. I think a small would’ve fit better but with the tie back you can cinch it pretty well.”
Exlura Dress
Likely Driggs Dress
Best Strapless Summer Dress
Sizes: 00 to 14
Material: Polyester and rayon
Colors: White, scarlet, sachet pink, deep orchid, ruby, black, navy
Best for: A bachelorette weekend
Retailer availability: Amazon
If you’re on the hunt for a great strapless party dress, try this ruffled option from Likely. Since the dress is form-fitting, many reviewers suggested sizing up, so you may want to keep that in mind when ordering. But the stretchy fabric and form-fitting silhouette will hug your curves and will look great in photographs. The ruffle over the bust adds a playful touch.
What reviewers say: “Great dress! Color and style are true to the photos, and fit were as expected based on other reviews. Fabric is form-fitting but has a nice stretch to it for a flattering fit. Fabric is on the thicker side, but very comfortable to wear all day. If you’re in between sizes, I would size up just to be safe, but otherwise the fit is pretty true to size. I’m 5’8″ and this hit just below the knee.”
Likely Driggs Dress
Astr the Label Midi Dress
Best Affordable Lace Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to L
Material: Polyester
Colors: Navy, periwinkle, pink mauve, white, buttercream, hunter green, vivid violet, black
Best for: A baby shower
Retailer availability: Amazon, Astr the Label
Whether you’re attending a baby shower as the mom to be or as a guest, make it one to remember by showing up in a comfortable and flattering baby shower dress. This lace midi dress from Astr the Label is elegant with its lace overlay and A-line silhouette that descends to a midi skirt length. Whether you choose the periwinkle or the hunter green, you’ll be in good hands. The style runs small, so size up for the best fit.
What other reviewers say: “Great dress for a variety of events. Wore this to a wedding and it was comfortable and stylish. A little long for short gals like me but I made it work with some higher heels.”
Astr the Label Midi Dress
Free People Taking Sides Maxi Dress
Best Casual Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to XL
Material: Cotton
Colors: Lively Ivy, Splash, Buttered Up, Cashmere, and five other colors
Celebrity fans of the brand: Selena Gomez, Olivia Wilde, Kaia Gerber, Camila Cabello, Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Swift, and more
Best for: Weekend brunch with friends
Retailer availability: Free People
Free People’s billowy, tiered maxi dress is an easy throw-on-and-go piece when you know you’ll be out and about all day. Made of cotton, its light weave is breathable for the hottest summer days. Since the smocked detailing at the bodice and open tie-back are worth showing off, just add minimal sandals and a slouchy shoulder bag.
What reviewers say: “It’s hard for me to find maxi dresses that suit me as a 5’1 girl but w o w this dress is a dream! Doesn’t swallow me up and is sooooo flattering.”
Free People Taking Sides Maxi Dress
FRAME x Julia Sarr-Jamois Asymmetrical Mini Dress
Best Minidress for Summer
Sizes: XXS to XL
Material: 86% polyamide, 14% elastane
Colors: Chocolate brown
Celebrity fans of the brand: Olivia Wilde, Camila Morrone, Ashley Benson, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Lopez, and more
Best for: Day-to-night wear
Retailer availability: FRAME
Recently, the fashion label FRAME tapped British Vogue fashion director Julia Sarr-Jamois for a capsule collection that celebrates effortless summer dressing. The 19-piece edit includes lustworthy modern classics, like this elevated mini dress. With its one-shoulder neckline, asymmetrical ruffled hem, and an open-back design, it offers visual intrigue without being overtly maximalist. It’s the kind of item that can be styled a million different ways, making it a perfect addition to a capsule wardrobe.
FRAME Asymmetrical Mini Dress
Everlane The Linen Bias Cut Dress
Sizes: 00 to 16
Material: Linen
Color: Kalamata, Bone/Caramel
Celebrity fans of the brand: Riley Keough, Selena Gomez, Sienna Miller, Nicole Richie, Meghan Markle, and more
Best for: A minimalist dresser
Retailer availability: Everlane
Looking for a sophisticated dress that looks polished with minimal effort? Everlane’s The Linen Bias Cut Dress is the one. Recently worn by actress Riley Keough, this piece leans into texture with its linen fabric and smart details like the classic crewneck, center-back slit at the hem, and subdued earthy hues. Its understated design means you can wear it on repeat and not get sick of it. For your next coffee run, style it with sneakers and a tote bag.
Everlane The Linen Bias Cut Dress
Cos Tie-Detail Smocked Dress
Best Smocked Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to L
Material: Cotton
Color: Black, Orange, Bright Blue
Celebrity fans of the brand: Jodie Turner-Smith, Priyanka Chopra, Michelle Doherty, and more
Best for: The summer city dweller
Retailer availability: Cos
If there’s one type of dress that exudes the effortlessness of summer, it’s a smocked dress. The style is versatile and flattering and feels feminine and stylish while also being comfortable. Plus, it takes up very little space in your luggage, and best of all, no ironing is required. So get your hands on this light, floaty summer dress from Cos. The shirred elastic upper keeps you comfortable with a forgiving stretch, while the full skirt adds volume for some added flair. As a bonus, the dress has tie straps, so you can adjust them to your liking.
Cos Shirred Midi Dress
Sea New York Addie Dress
Best Cotton Summer Dress
Sizes: XXS to XL
Material: 98% cotton, 2% elastane
Color: Black
Celebrity fans of the brand: Mandy Moore, Rachel Bilson, Jessica Simpson, Julianne Hough, and more.
Best for: Beach bonfires
Retailer availability: Nordstrom, Shopbop, Bergdorf Goodman
Summer evenings spent at the beach are unmatched, but it can be kinda difficult to figure out what exactly, to wear while hanging out in the sand. This playful cotton dress from Sea is the ideal piece for keeping you cool and stylish. It features a smocked elastic bodice, a tiered skirt, ruffled trim on the shoulders, and a scalloped hem. The maxi length means you’ll be able to keep your skin shielded from the sun when it goes down and warm once it’s nighttime. Experiment with gladiator sandals for mid-July to mid-August and with chunky boots come fall.
Sea New York Addie Dress
Sea New York Addie Dress
Sea New York Addie Dress
Khaite Francine Dress
Best Jersey Slip Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to XL
Material: Viscose
Color: Cream
Celebrity fans of the brand: Kaia Gerber, Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Katie Homes, Blake Lively, Sofia Richie, Shay Mitchell, and more
Best for: Dressed-up daytime activities
Retailer availability: Mytheresa
Sometimes, simple is best. This sleek dress from NYC label Khaite sticks to the basics and does it well. The minimalist dress with a low-cut neckline, swooping back, and maxi length is ideal for those who prefer to keep things easy, even when dressing up. Try this throw-on-and-go dress for brunch with friends or even a summer cocktail party. Then, when the fall rolls around, you can layer this dress underneath a long coat and ballet flats or a cardigan and chunky white boots.
Khaite Francine Dress
Mother The Batwing Cinch Waist Dress
Best Denim Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to 3XL
Material: 98% Cotton, 2% Elastane
Color: Beer Me
Celebrity fans of the brand: Lady Gaga, Jenna Ortega, Addison Rae, Olivia Wilde, Bella Thorne and more
Best for: Weekend shopping
Retailer availability: Mother, Neiman Marcus, Anthropologie
As any true denim lover knows, once summer rolls around, the only way to swap out jeans is if you replace them with denim dresses. Los Angeles-based label Mother is beloved for its easy denim silhouettes, and the Batwing Cinch Dress dress is a summer style that speaks to its ethos. The front has intricate seamed details, silver snaps, and a belted high waist to show off your figure. The batwing sleeves are loose, so you won’t overheat or feel restricted. Finish off this summer dress with cowboy boots or designer sneakers and stud earrings.
Mother The Batwing Cinch Dress Waist
Mother The Batwing Cinch Dress Waist
Mother The Batwing Cinch Dress Waist
Wayf Lilibet Halter Mini Dress
Sizes: XS to XL
Material: 97% polyester, 3% spandex
Colors: Ivory
Best for: A white beach party
This white halter minidress is a summer party staple. It features a white rose appliqué that is eye-catching but not over the top and an adjustable necktie that allows for versatility in terms of fit. It’s made from a satin-like fabric that skims the body, allowing you to move comfortably. Style it with pearl earrings and silver stilettos for a night of dancing.
Wayf Lilibet Halter Mini Dress
Wayf Lilibet Halter Mini Dress
Velvet Jacqueline Knit Dress
Sizes: XS to XL
Material: 40% polyamide, 60% cotton
Colors: Beige
Best for: Beach-to-bar days
Everywhere we look, fashion houses and designers are reinventing the nostalgic crochet dress with silhouettes that range from maxi dresses to minidresses. Velvet is one label that has taken a sophisticated approach to the trend with its Jacqueline dress. This knit dress for summer features a collar and elbow-length sleeves, balancing polish and comfort. Plus, it’s light and summery and can act as a cute swim cover-up or as a casual everyday garment if worn over a slip dress.
Velvet Jacqueline Knit Dress
Velvet Jacqueline Knit Dress
Marcella Ashley Dress
Best White Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to XXXL
Material: 60% Viscose, 30% Polyamide, 10% Lycra
Color: White, Black
Best for: Layering under a blazer
Special notes: Designed in NYC. Handcrafted in Europe.
Retailer availability: Marcella
Summer is all about keeping things simple. Sometimes, that means the recipe calls for nothing more than a great white dress. Marcella’s A-line style has a wide, rounded neckline and a slit in the back for easy all-day movements. It’s made of European Pointe, a structured but breathable fabric that is wrinkle-resistant and great for traveling.
What reviewers say: “I love the dress. It is made of a thick fabric and it is easy to style. It is true to size. My measurements are bust: 33.5″, waist: 25″, and hips: 36″ with a height of 5’2″. I ordered a XS. As mentioned by another reviewer, the underarms are snug.”
Editor testing and review notes: “This is one of the most versatile dresses I have in my closet. It’s made with butter-soft viscose, polyamide, and lycra and cut for a close fit that molds to my shape. The semi-thick straps and scoop neckline fit comfortably on my chest and help accentuate my décolletage.” — Nikki Chwat Style Commerce Editor
Marcella Ashley Dress
Aya Muse Viscose Jersey Mini Dress
Sizes: XXS to XL
Material: Viscose
Color: Black
Celebrity fans of the brand: Lily James, Elsa Hosk, Dua Lipa, Sophie Turner, Emily Ratajkowski, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and more
Best for: Clubbing
Retailer availability: Luisaviaroma
Los Angles label Aya Muse has become a fashion-girl-favorite for its sexy, sophisticated designs. At first glance, its Viscose Jersey Mini Dress may look like a simple black dress, but the plunging cowl neck and the open back add a touch of intrigue. While it’s made of a smooth-knit viscose blend, it still lends structure and support to the wearer. Match the tiered chain link belt with minimalist silver jewelry.
Aya Muse Viscose Jersey Mini Dress
Reformation Nottingham Dress
Best Silk Summer Dress
Sizes: XS to XL
Material: Naia Silk
Color: Ivory, Fey, Black
Celebrity fans of the brand: Kaia Gerber, Camila Morrone, Hailey Bieber, Brie Larson, Addison Rae, Blake Lively, and more
Best for: A gala
Retailer availability: Reformation
Silk dresses have been elevated from once-upon-a-time simple and sultry lingerie basics to sartorial style staples — and we’re not mad about it. Reformation’s newest Nottingham Dress, co-created by Reformation and Laura Vassar, designer, and co-founder of Brock Collection, is the perfect example as it was designed to exemplify the best of essential wardrobe staples. The supple materiality and loosely-fitted silhouette allow this piece to be dressed up with statement jewelry and stilettos or down with flat sandals and a mini shoulder bag. Plus, as with everything Reformation does, this piece was created with sustainability at its core, using deadstock fabric with the brand’s signature Naia Silk.
Reformation Nottingham Dress
Acne Studios Ruffle-Trimmed Midi Dress
Best Designer Summer Dress
Sizes: 2 to 12
Material: Recycled polyester
Color: Black
Celebrity fans of the brand: Katie Holmes, Kourtney Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Rosalia, Rihanna, and more
Best for: A cocktail party
Retailer availability: Mytherea
Investing in well-fitting cocktail dresses means you always have an option for last-minute events. No one has led the charge on striking and versatile cocktail frocks quite like Acne Studios. The Ruffle-Trimmed Midi Dress captures the designer’s juxtaposition of unique and minimalist designs. It features an A-line cut made from recycled polyester and clings to the body, flattering your figure without hugging too tight. The bust hangs a bit looser, allowing for breathability and comfort. Plus, it has spaghetti straps, a ruffled hem, and cut-out detailing on the back. So, if you’re ready to start investing smartly, this is your starting place.
Acne Studios Ruffle-Trimmed Midi Dress
Danielle Guizio Lace Flutter Mini Dress
Sizes: XXS to XXL
Material: Polyester
Color: Woodrose
Celebrity fans of the brand: Madison Beer, Gigi Hadid, Megan Fox, Olivia Wilde, Kendall Jenner, and more
Best for: A guest attending a summer bridal shower
Retailer availability: Danielle Guizio
Danielle Guizio is a New York-based designer who founded her namesake womenswear label in 2014 with the goal of empowering the wearer and celebrating the female form. Her new Lace Flutter Mini Dress features purposeful details such as delicate lace trim across the neckline and hem, sweet flutter sleeves, and an alluring open back. “For the minidress, I like a barely-there shoe such as a thin strap sandal so it’s like you’re running around barefoot,” says Monica Paolini, the designer of Sea New York.
Danielle Guzio Lace Flutter Mini Dress
Reiss Nina Cape Dress
Best Summer Mother-of-the-Bride Dress
Sizes: 0 to 12
Materials: Viscose
Color: Hot Pink
Best for: The mother of the bride or the mother of the groom
Retailer availability: Reiss
Whether your son or daughter is getting married, you, too, deserve to wear a once-in-a-lifetime gown that is flattering, stylish, and unforgettable. Reiss‘ Nina Dress is a great option to make a statement that isn’t too over the top. The dress features an asymmetric neckline with a cape-style single sleeve. The flowing fabrication, paired with the padded shoulder and the hot pink hue, creates a powerful aesthetic that a suit could never exude.
Reiss Nina Cape Dress
What to Consider When Shopping for a Summer Dress
When you’re picking out your ideal summer dress, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.
Material: “Natural fabrics are best for the warmer weather,” explains Nikki Campbell and Sophie Coote, founders of the Australian label Sir. “For example, linen and cotton or our lightweight Aya knit, which is perfect for layering with swimwear, are ideal since they feature open weaves that keep you cool and dry.” Silk is another summer-friendly fabric because it can help regulate your body temperature and even has moisture-wicking properties.
Silhouette and Cut: When deciding what type of summer dress you want, consider the event you’ll be wearing it to. For example, midi and maxi dresses are traditionally more appropriate for formal occasions such as weddings or galas, while minidresses are ideal for daytime activities or fun cocktail parties. Once you’ve decided on the cut, find a silhouette that suits your taste. For example, if you’re a maximalist dresser, experiment with fun puffed sleeves or a halter neck to add flair to the standard summer dress. Strategically placed cutouts are also great design elements to seek since they will enhance your figure and add some oomph to your look.
Versatility: If ease is your goal, you’ll want to invest in a style that can easily be worn for a daytime beach visit or a fancier occasion, simply depending on how you style it. “We always have in mind the versatility of a piece so that the dress alone can work both ways,” says Paolini. “The right jewelry and shoe pairing can help shift the look into day or night.”
Color: When shopping for a new summer dress, consider the color trends we saw on the spring 2023 runways. Some of the hues of the season center around bright, bold tones like cobalt blue at Akris and Rokh and fiery red at Valentino, Alaia, and more. On the other hand, there were more muted pastel-based colors like butter yellow at Lela Rose, and Jason Wu, powder blue at Givenchy and Victoria Beckham, and lilac at Jason Wu and Cecilie Bahnsen. And if you have your eyes set on a colored dress, you can wear it well into the fall and winter — cheerful hues were also spotted in fall 2023 shows.
Cute Summer Dress Trends for 2023
If you’re looking for the ideal summer dress to embrace, take the advice of Paolini, Campbell, and Coote and test out a few of the top dress trends from the spring 2023 runway collections.
Smocked and embroidered summer dresses: At Sea, smocking and embroidery are key elements incorporated into spring and summer styles. If you’re looking for an eye-catching daytime dress, this is the look for you. Crafty designs have been a favorite for stars like Bella Hadid and Lorde, who style them with edgy accessories for a youthful twist. Since there’s so much variety in silhouette, it’s a trend that’s flattering and easy to embrace for all.
Cutout summer dresses: Get ready to show off some skin because, as seen at Victor Glemaud, Christian Cowan, Kim Shu, and more, cutout dresses are prominent for the season ahead. “The cutout trend can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be,” said Campbell and Coote. “Look for pieces with cutouts that accentuate your best assets. Adjustable pieces allow you to control how open the cutouts are, making it a great way to dip your toes in the trend.” For example, opt for cutouts at the sides to accentuate your waist. If your back is a favorite feature, try something open across your shoulders and down your spine. And, if you’re hoping to accentuate your bust, look for something with cutouts along the neckline.
Sheer summer dresses: This season, sheer dresses are front and center. Whether you’re looking for something super sexy, love a structured look, or want more coverage, there are plenty of ways to embrace the sheer trend. During many of the spring 2023 shows, gauzy garments were presented in sartorial splendor. Maryam Nassir, Nensi Dojaka, and Rick Owen were a few examples where saw see-through dresses solely paired with full-coverage panties. Elsewhere, designers like No. 21, Tory Burch, and Victoria Beckham showed sheer dresses that were both gothic and girly, with ruffle trims and lace details.
Fringe summer dresses: Fringe became popular in the ’20s as part of the flapper’s uniform before trickling into fashion throughout the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘90s, and aughts. At the spring 2023 runway shows, there were many fringe dresses. From knitted dresses with fringed hems at Ulla Johnson and MSGM to frocks with layered, fringed cuffs at Bottega Veneta and Proenza Schouler, this trend suits all your going-out wardrobe needs.
Tube summer dresses: As a ’90s favorite, the tube dress is far from new — but this season, it has returned in a big way. Fitted at the bust and roomy at the waist, these silhouettes are simple, stylish, and comfortable. From Prada and 16Arlington to Rokh and The Row, the spring 2023 collections proved there is a tube dress for everyone. For example, Prada and 16Arlington sent out laidback tube dresses in shiny satin-like fabrics, while The Row had a sleek black tube dress, proving why it has set the benchmark for quiet luxury dressing. Meanwhile, Rokh showed a full sequin number, taking the tube dress trend up a notch.
Crochet summer dresses: The crochet dress trend falls in line with that effortless cool-girl aesthetic shoppers are seeking. At the spring 2023 shows, we saw it at Gabriela Hearst with a gold long-sleeve maxi dress, meticulously hand crocheted in cashmere. At Carolina Herrera, the designer made the look preppy with enlarged bow details, while Khaite provided movement to a crochet tank dress by adding a fringe hem.
Denim summer dresses: With head-to-toe denim being a key trend on the spring and fall 2023 runways at shows (think AZ Factory, Burberry, Alaïa, and Ami Paris), it’s no surprise that denim dresses are having a moment. Denim dresses are functional since they come in all types of silhouettes, from mini shirt dresses to floor-skimming smocked iterations. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be dressed up or down. When layered over a crisp blouse or shirt, a denim dress is just the thing to slot into your rotation of office attire. On the other hand, a denim bustier dress with kitten heels would work best for the weekend or for going out since it lends a feminine and romantic vibe.
Tips for Transitional Dressing: How to Wear Your Summer Dress in the Fall
As temperatures start to cool in September, don’t worry about putting away your favorite summer dress. In fact, many styles can easily be transitioned into cooler months. The key is styling. Loose-fit summer dresses are great to wear with a chunky sweater worn over the top and a pair of boots. The addition of these fall-focused items will add warmth and texture to your look without feeling too off-kilter.
For more fitted styles, contrast the dress with an oversized blazer or chunky coat up top. As for shoes, consider swapping sandals for sneakers, which will offer a bit more coverage without getting too toasty. Lastly, for any mini silhouette, you may want to consider a few options to help offer a little more leg coverage. Over-the-knee boots or a pair of sheer black tights can help to keep you just a bit warmer without having to give up your favorite minidress until next year.
How We Selected the Best Summer Dresses
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail, and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to curate this guide to the best summer dresses, we interviewed two fashion industry experts for product selections and style recommendations, as well as key knowledge on dress styling, popular trends for summer 2023, and various occasion functionality. We chose the best summer dresses for women that reflect current and emerging trends, fabric and material innovation, durability, convertibility, and traditional design applications. We also compared customer review quotes, employed research across the designer dress market, and considered our own product testing. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Nikki Campbell & Sophie Coote are the founders of the Australian label, Sir. They established SIR in 2014 when both were only 24. Since then, their strength of vision has catapulted the brand into international recognition for its singular, uncompromising aesthetic. Maintaining an aspirational yet inclusive appeal centered on Australian culture has been paramount to SIR’s development, values that continue to guide its evolution as Campbell and Coote push the brand to new heights. Evolving its minimal core aesthetic into a louder voice, SIR has cemented their place in the industry with collections that never fail to capture international demand, nimbly balancing a chase for new customers with honoring its growing, loyal fan base.
Monica Paolini is the designer of Sea New York. In 2009, Monica, whose history includes nine years as Design Director at Betsey Johnson and three years at Jill Stuart as Head Design Assistant, joined her partner Sean to launch Sea New York. The two work together to find the theme of each collection, select fabrics and prints, detail designs, merchandise collections, style look books, manage the sales and brand strategy and oversee the production and delivery.
Meet The Author
Aemilia Madden is a writer, editor, and brand consultant who has worked in the fashion industry for over eight years. She’s an Oakland, California native and Brooklyn resident. When she’s not writing about the latest trends, Aemilia is running in prospect park, testing new recipes on her friends, and trying to keep up with her New Yorker subscription. Madden wrote the original version of this summer dress story for 2022.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News, where she both writes and edits stories on the latest clothing, accessory, and shoe must-haves. As a city dweller, she’s garnered a love for dresses because they can be worn for different occasions around the city. In her spare time, Chwatt keeps up with street style to understand which garments and accessories are highly coveted by the style set. Chwatt wrote the update to this summer dresses story with new expert tips and styles to wear for 2023.
Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
