These Summer Dresses for Women Over 50 Are Cool, Comfy, and So Flattering

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We updated this article in July 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.

Warmer weather calls for cute, breezy summer dresses—but finding a dress with the right fit, style, and price can certainly be a challenge, no matter your age. Thankfully, we corralled some of the best summer dresses for women over 50 right here, so you can spend more time enjoying your summer and less time standing in front of your closet!

Whether you’re in a need of a comfortable, stylish frock to pair with a fabulous summer date idea or a beautiful sundress to wear on a picnic, there’s a dress for every fun summer activity. Maybe you’re looking for a flattering wrap dress that you can wear on outings with the family, or a more casual dress to run errands in without getting too hot in the sun. Or, if you’re on the hunt for a dress to pack for your summer vacation, there are also plenty of options for flowy, beach-ready maxi dresses—including ones you can easily slip on and off over the best bathing suits for women over 50.

Whatever the case, just pick a dress from our comprehensive list, and you’re bound to feel stylish and comfortable, all while having fun in the sun (psst...don’t forget to wear sunscreen for your face).

Our top picks:

Whether you’re looking for an everyday sundress, something for an outdoor party, or a dress to wear on your next vacation, we have the perfect option for you. Ahead, find affordable picks and splurge-worthy items, as well as an assortment of shift, wrap, maxi, and midi dresses.

Casual Short Sleeve Dress

Customers of all ages love wearing this summer dress. It’s ultra-light and made from a rayon and spandex blend (which feels super soft). It also provides a contoured, slim fit at the waist. You can dress it up with jewelry and heels, or keep it casual with a jean jacket and sneakers.

What the Reviews Say: “This is a simple comfortable dress that goes with anything. It can be worn casually or you can dress it up with some jewelry and a cardigan. I plan to buy some more in different colors!”

Summer Casual T-Shirt Dresses

A fan-favorite among Amazon customers, this above-the-knee swing dress comes in 30+ fun colors and prints. It also has short sleeves, a round neck, and buttons.

What the Reviews Say: “This dress has a super comfortable material and is true to size. It’s worth the price, and I bought four different colors, and I can wear as a dress or over capri length leggings” wrote one customer.

Summer Sleeveless Floral Print Dress

This maxi dress is truly perfect for so many summer activities—including vacations. It’s lightweight and stretchy, has a sleeveless fit, and comes in 27 beautiful colors and patterns. The best part: It comes with pockets!

What the Reviews Say: “This is the second print of this dress that I’ve bought. I’ve worn the first one as a dress as well as a cover up for the pool. The fit is just right and the material flows beautifully. With slits on both sides I feel that I can move freely in it. It just feels good!”

The Exercise Dress

For when it’s too hot for “real clothes,” throw on this exercise dress from Outdoor Voices. It’s made of sweat-wicking performance fabric to keep you dry and comfortable no matter how high the temperatures soar. You can wear it for exercising or running errands thanks to the built in shorts beneath the skirt.

What the Reviews Say: “I was over the moon with this dress when I first got it. I ended up getting several more colors and it is still a summer staple for me.”

Casual Summer Sleeveless Ruffle Sundress

Stay cool and stylish in this ruffled sleeveless dress from Amazon that’s under $50. It comes in 16 colors and has two side pockets, adding to its appeal as a shopper favorite.

What the Reviews Say: “I live in Mexico, so I am always looking for the perfect comfortable dress, and this is it! The dress is so flattering and the material is so soft!”

Flutter Sleeve Plissé Midi Dress

You’ll feel gorgeous in this midi dress, which features a flattering smocked waist and layered ruffle sleeves for a feminine, dressy touch. It also comes in more colors, including yellow, pink, and green.

What the Reviews Say: “Loved this dress! Very comfortable and perfect for a summer wedding I attended,” said one Nordstrom shopper. “I’m on the curvier side, but it was extremely flattering.”

Swing Sundress

Available in 26 colors and patterns, this sleeveless dress is just what you need for a simple night out look. It has a comfortable and loose fit, a round neck, and stretchy fabric.

What the Reviews Say: “I really love this dress. It’s flattering and comfortable. I will definitely buy more in different colors!” wrote one satisfied customer.

Cotton Jersey Sleeveless Cover-up Dress

Let your dress do the talking! This cotton jersey pick is not only cute, but it’s also versatile. Post-swim cover-up? Check. Running errands? Check. Brunch date? Check. Choose your favorite (or a few) colors and patterns among the 20+ options.

What the Reviews Say: “The cotton material is breathable for 80+ degree weather. It’s marketed as a beach cover up but not see-through or too thin to wear as a sundress.”

Oversize Three-Quarter Sleeve Shirtdress

This oversize shirtdress resembles a crisp button down. It have cropped 3/4 length sleeves, a collar, and a slight high-low hem. It comes in three solid colors that you can wear with heels or sneakers.

What the Reviews Say: “This dress is just what I needed for an easy, throw-on, comfy look.”

Summer Short Sleeve V-Neck Floral Dress

A best-seller on Amazon, this short sleeve dress features a flattering V-neck and A-line fit—perfect for dressing up or down for any occasion. Not to mention, it also has pockets and comes in a total of 51 gorgeous colors and patterns!

What the Reviews Say: “This is a must have for summer! It’s classy enough to wear for work or brunch with the girls.”

Smocked Sleeveless Midi Dress

This breezy sleeveless dress is the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe—it features a fitted smocked bodice, a midi length, and handy hidden pockets. Plus, you can choose from a few beautiful floral prints.

What the Reviews Say: “It was so forgiving/slimming. I also love that it is a tad bit shorter so I can show off just a little leg,” said a Nordstrom shopper. “I got so many compliments on it I went out and got it in the purple too.”

Dana Poplin Midi Dress

This splurge-worthy dress is fit for a summer wedding or elevated brunch look. It has a flowy silhouette that’s comfortable and flattering on a variety of body types. Plus, it has pockets and a stylish tie detail on the back. The new release doesn’t yet have reviews, but it’s sure to impress.

Summer Wrap Maxi Dress

You can never go wrong with a good wrap dress—especially if it comes in a flattering maxi length and a beautiful floral print like this one. Plus, it’s available in a whopping 27 different color and print options, so you’re bound to find one that you like.

What the Reviews Say: “There is plenty of wrap for modesty and the bodice has a snap closure to keep the bust opening secure. The material does not stretch, so buy your normal size. I’m super happy with this light weight fashionable dress and plan to wear on several future cruise dinners.”

Whimsy Wrap Dress

If you’re looking for more coverage of your arms, this dress features a flattering 3/4 length sleeve—as well as a surplice neckline and a chic draped design.

What the Reviews Say: “I love this dress. It fits my 70-something year old body beautifully. It can be worn year round and looks timeless and very pretty,” wrote one Nordstrom reviewer.

Half-Sleeve Waisted Midi A-Line Dress

Available in eight different color options, this top-rated dress from Amazon features a flattering half-sleeve, cute button-up closure detailing, and a stylish A-line fit—all of which make it the perfect casual dress for a summer day out.

What the Reviews Say: “I love this dress. It’s comfortable and flattering. And who doesn’t love a dress with pockets?”

Floral Vintage Dress

This elegant dress has a vintage-inspired silhouette, with a round neck, 3/4 sleeve, and a knee-length fit—not to mention it comes in a variety of beautiful floral patterns. The timeless design makes it great for occasions like dinners, cocktail parties, and more.

What the Reviews Say: “I am complimented every time I wear this dress. It fits perfectly and is so comfortable.”

Sleeveless Shift Dress

Shift dresses are classic and breezy for the summer, and this one is perfectly comfortable—with a stylish design. Not only is it available in 12 different beautiful prints, it also has two handy hidden pockets!

What the Reviews Say: “This little summer duster is just perfect. Cool and comfortable and very attractive. I’ve ordered another one.”

Short-Sleeve Scoop Neck Swing Dress

If you’re looking for a simple, classic T-shirt dress you can wear everyday, you can’t go wrong with this top-rated pick from Amazon. It boasts over 6,000 five-star ratings from reviewers, who rave that it’s lightweight, comfortable, and perfect for the summer.

What the Reviews Say: “I have bought five of these dresses,” said an Amazon reviewer. “They are incredibly comfortable, and it feels like you are wearing a pajama nightshirt. They wash well for the cost and look cute with a jean jacket or sweater for work.”

The Kallie Flowy Maxi Dress

Looking for the perfect dress to wear on your summer vacation? This flowy, breezy maxi dress is beach-ready and is great as a cover-up for wearing over your swimsuit. It’s also available in standard, petite, and plus sizes.

What the Reviews Say: “Feel like I’m at the beach even when I’m not…So airy. Would wear out with a slip.”

Pima Cotton Open-Back Midi Dress

This breezy midi dress is made of super-soft, lightweight cotton. It’s especially great for when you’re on the move during hot days thanks to an open back and slits on the sides that keep air flowing.

Midi Dress

This midi dress features a halter neckline and a drawstring waist for a flattering fit, and looks especially stunning when paired with heels and jewelry. The beautiful coral color is perfect for the summer, too!

What the Reviews Say: “This dress looks amazing on. It's extremely well made and lined.”

Freezer III Dress

Do you tend to get hot pretty quickly? If so, you’ll love this dress. It’s designed with unique, advanced sweat-wicking technology that pulls moisture away from the body, helping keep you cool. Plus, it comes with UPF 30 protection and helps block out UVA and UVB rays, according to the brand. And did we mention there’s also 110 color and pattern options?

What the Reviews Say: “It is perfect to pack when traveling. Lightweight, doesn't wrinkle and it has pockets!”

Tiered Maxi Tent Dress

This tiered maxi tent dress gives off a chic and casual look. It has a loose-fit design for comfort, flowy tiers, and side seam pockets that are great for storing your lip balm and cell phone. Choose your favorite color from the four available options.

What the Reviews Say: “I bought this dress on a whim right before a Florida vacation. It was 100 degrees and this dress was nice and flowy to keep me cool,” wrote an Amazon shopper. “I’m only 5’0” tall and the adjustable buttons on the straps made it possible for me to wear flat shoes and sandals without tripping over the dress.”

Striped Sleeveless Maxi Dresses

With rave reviews on Amazon, this snug but stretchy striped maxi dress comes in 29 other colors. It has a soft-to-the-touch fabric with two front pockets and a classic scoop neck style.

What the Reviews Say: “The stripes are flattering, and this dress was so comfy. Not paper-thin material either,” wrote one reviewer.

Sleeveless Reversible Maxi Dress

This reversible maxi dress offers two looks for the price of one. The back features a deep-V neckline that can be worn in the front for a sexy alternative. Great for summer date nights, this dress comes in sizes 2XS-2XL, and it’s under $50!

What the Reviews Say: “Love the fit, color, and versatility. Can dress it up or down.”

Plus Size Cold Shoulder Floral Maxi Bohemian Split Dress

This fun, flirty dress for plus sizes comes in nine patterns and colors, each with a flattering fit complete with a leg-slit, cold-shoulder design, and belted waist. And with over 7,000 ratings on Amazon, customers are buying these dresses up!

What the Reviews Say: “Wearing this as a plus size woman made me feel beautiful! Colors, style, and fit were perfect. Great for a date night outfit.”

Beach Boho Dress

Spruce up your summer dress collection with the addition of a bold print pattern. This print dress features a round neck, front pockets, and an A-line loose-fit.

What the Reviews Say: “I love everything about this dress! The fit, style, length, pattern, and comfort,” wrote one Amazon customer.

Casual Party Midi Dress

Featuring a wrap front design, V- neckline, and 3/4 sleeves, this flowy midi dress runs true to size and comes in eight different colors. It also includes a waist tie belt that will help create a flattering shape.

What the Reviews Say: “A beautiful flowy soft material dress perfect for spring weather and office wear. The material is very soft and feels extremely comfortable on my skin.”

Casual Loose Summer Dress

Charming and simple, this flowy swing dress is perfect for wearing to the park or beach. It’s made from a soft rayon fabric and has sleeves for added shoulder coverage.

What the Reviews Say: “The fit is perfect, and this dress is very comfortable and well made,” wrote one reviewer. “I washed it in cold water and dried it, and it holds its shape and color well.”

Floral Chiffon Dress

This gorgeous chiffon dress received over 1,100 five-star ratings on Amazon, and we can see why. Made from a soft chiffon fabric, this dress will keep you feeling cool throughout humid summer weather. It comes in size small to 3XL, and it has puffy short sleeves, a smocked empire waist, and interior lining.

What the Reviews Say: “Love this dress! It’s so lightweight and comfortable! The lining is very nice. The neckline isn’t too low.”

Casual Floral Print Summer Dress

Sometimes you need a chill dress that will get you from point a to b, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with this floral print pick. It is made from 100% rayon, has a loose fit, and has 3/4 balloon sleeves. We love the various chic color combinations and its loose cut.

What the Reviews Say: “Nice lightweight fabric. Stays cool even with longer sleeves.”

Embroidered Linen Dress

An oversized sundress is a wardrobe staple for those super chill days. And this cotton and linen tunic dress is too cute to skip! It’s made from a cotton and linen blend, making the dress lightweight and breathable.

What the Reviews Say: “This dress is absolutely gorgeous! The linen is of good quality, and the embroidery is beautiful and detailed,” wrote one satisfied customer.

Floral Summer Wrap Dress

Available in 37 different colors, this dress is so affordable and cute. A flattering A-line cut that hits mid-calf, a demure V-neckline, and a wrap style make this dress a winner.

What the Reviews Say: “It’s a nice, flowy material and it’s lined so you don’t have to wear a slip,” said one shopper. “I was surprised at the quality for this price point. The print is pretty and there is a snap at the chest to keep the top closed which was great.”

Short Sleeve Stretch Cotton Polo Dress

This loose polo-style shirt dress features a V-neck with five-button closures and short sleeves. The material is soft and stretchy thanks to its cotton and elastane blend. It comes in six colors, including pink, white, and gray.

What the Reviews Say: “I really enjoy wearing this dress. It’s casual and neat and so comfortable. I wear it with white sneakers and get lots of compliments.”

Lightspun Button Front Tiered Midi Dress

Midi dresses are so in style right now—and we can’t get enough of them. This one by Madewell features a button front, has two pleats for a bit of movement, and is made of 100% cotton.

What the Reviews Say: “The material is great, like a really good quality spun cotton. It’s very comfortable and I love the way it swishes. I did have to wear a camisole because its got a V-neck that is a little low.”

Surplice Maxi Dress

If you’re looking for a basic summer dress that’s comfy and affordable, this maxi dress is a great pick. Machine-washable, stretchy, and available in 19 colors and sizes XS-6XL, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

What the Reviews Say: “This dress is a hit! It looks so good on and I got tons of compliments. It does run a little big so I’d recommend sizing down.”

Short Sleeve Maxi Dress

Looking for something laidback with some length? This crew neck maxi dress will be your best bet. It feels super soft and stretchy thanks to its blend of rayon and elastane. Pair it with comfy sneakers and a sun hat for a complete look.

What the Reviews Say: “This dress is perfect for Texas Summers—cool, loose, and casual.”

The Ellie Nap Dress

Hill House dresses are a fan favorite for a reason. With a waitlist for new drops and a slew of beautiful patterns and colorways, it’s no wonder these summer dresses are so coveted. Each of the signature “nap” styles is made with elasticated smocking, ruffled shoulders, a tiered midi skirt, and pockets. Be sure to scoop one up while you can—they often go out of stock.

What the Reviews Say: “I have a few Ellie dresses in various prints—they are just the best,” wrote a reviewer. “The material is so light and airy without being see-through, and of course, the pockets.”

Casual Summer Maxi Dress

This bright, patterned dress pairs well with fun accessories and is perfect for anything from a picnic to a tropical vacation. This light, airy, floor-length dress is available in 37 different colors or patterns—so you’re sure to find an option you’ll love.

What the Reviews Say: “I love this dress so much that I purchased it twice. It feels good, looks good, and fits perfectly.”

Casual Boho Sundress

This soft, polka dot-printed dress is made from lightweight viscose fabric, and tons of reviewers rave that it’s the “perfect summer dress.” It has spaghetti straps, a scoop neck, adorable button detailing, and a tie at the waist.

What the Reviews Say: “I never write reviews, but this dress was perfect,” wrote an Amazon shopper. “I felt cool and confident all day. I didn’t need Spanx because it wasn’t clingy.”

Cotton Lace Dress

Thanks to its simple cutout design, this summer swing dress is perfect for a brunch date. It has a lightweight fit for comfortable everyday wear and lace-line shoulder cutouts for a flattering, trendy look.

What the Reviews Say: “I bought this for a beach vacation, thinking I could wear it over my swimsuit to go from the house to the beach, but the dress was so cute and flattering with a pair of sandals that I wore it out to dinner.”

House Dress

This cute and comfy dress is an upgraded version of a classic house dress and is available in 28 colors and patterns. Pockets on both sides give you a place for your phone, keys, sunglasses, and other essentials.

What the Reviews Say: “It’s very nice to wear at home and for hot weather. The material is very light, feels comfortable, and cozy.”

Eyelet Swing Drewss

This flattering swing dress is perfect for a casual date, or it could be dressed up for an outdoor dinner. It features elbow-length puff sleeves, a V-neck, and a beautiful eyelet pattern all over.

What the Reviews Say: “The eyelet cotton fabric made it perfect for my event when the temperature was around 100 [degrees] with high humidity. The dress is a perfect A-line, and that flowy silhouette made it cool but also classy.”

How to choose the best summer dress

✔️ Look at the fabric. One of the easiest ways to stay cool in warm temperatures is by wearing lighter fabrics. Go for materials like cotton, chambray, rayon, and linen, which are breathable and easier to wear in the summer.

✔️ Consider the occasion. A beach wedding may call for something that’s dressy and full-coverage (don’t want a sunburn!), whereas strolls in the park allow for something short and casual. It’s always good to have a few summer dresses you can pick from for different needs.

✔️ Think of price per wear. Not every summer dress needs to be expensive, but sometimes you find the perfect dress and want to splurge. Figure out how frequently you’ll wear the dress and decide if the price per wear is worth the spend.

How we chose the best summer dresses for women over 50

We conducted our own research and and sifted through hundreds of online reviews to find the best summer dresses for women over 50 available.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

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