Blanket Dresses Are the Easy Summer Fashion Trend We All Need Right Now

Summer has a reputation of being hot and sweaty, but those of us who work in offices or live with someone who loves the AC know that’s not always the case. Once inside — where it’s likely close to a chilly 65 degrees — we’re suddenly shivering in our high-waisted shorts and mini skirts. So, this year, we’re swapping them out for the blanket dress, a comfy trend that happens to be the best of both worlds.

In short, the blanket dress is a maxi or midi that’s extra poufy and loose, like a swing or babydoll design. Since it’s so roomy, you can easily tuck your legs underneath if you’re feeling cold, thus turning it into your own wearable throw. It’s perfect for almost any indoor activity (it’s especially cozy for sitting on the couch), and since it’s so breezy and easy to throw on, it’ll keep you cool when you're outside, too.

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Considering so many of us will be inside a lot more this summer, 2020's blanket dress is definitely worth embracing. Ahead, we've rounded up a few ways to wear it, along with shoppable options to get you started.

What to Look For

<p>Kat Slootsky</p>

Kat Slootsky

Big, breezy, poufy — this is a dress that will flare out when you spin in it and is the opposite of tight and constricting. Many of these designs include tiers or balloon sleeves, which are two details that will add a little fun to your look. Recently, Dakota Johnson was spotted wearing a blanket dress while out in LA.

It's Easy to Dress Up

Christian Vierig/Getty Images
Christian Vierig/Getty Images

While this design can be casual, it's possible to dress it up, too. Simply add some accessories, like statement earrings, a scarf, or a headband, and trade your slides or sneakers for strappy, heeled sandals.

And, It Works Year-Round

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Once the summer is over, the blanket dress will still come in handy. You can layer it over a turtleneck and tights, or style it with a leather jacket and boots to make it appropriate for fall and winter.

Here are a few to add to your closet.

Sister Jane West Country Weave Cami Dress

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Shop now: $236; sisterjane.com

ASOS Design Curve Tiered Smock Maxi Dress in Leopard Print

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Shop now: $60; asos.com

Wilt Tiered Long Dress

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Shop now: $187; shopbop.com

H&M Crinkled Cotton Dress

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Shop now: $25; hm.com

Eloquii Dramatic Off the Shoulder Maxi Dress

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Shop now: $150; eloquii.com

UO Jorja Tiered Ruffle Maxi Dress

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Shop now: $99; urbanoutfitters.com

Meadows Azelea Narcissus Dress

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Shop now: $230; shopbop.com

Zara Plaid Dress

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Shop now: $40 (Originally $70); zara.com

For more of the latest trends, tricks, and style news, head to Future of Fashion.