Day or Night, These Backless Dresses Are Bringin' the Drama

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We all know that dresses are the most obvious and the easiest options when you're trying to hit the streets looking summah-time fine—yes, even when it's almost September and the "fall" season for some reason has temps 80 degrees and above. But back to dresses—backless dresses give off those sultry vibes like no other look can. And contrary to popular belief, they aren't just for formal events, special moments, or date night.

Ahead, we've got dazzlin' options you can take from day to night and there's something for everybody. Yeah, you too. Not into the glam vibes? We've got some casual frocks for ya. Obsessed with halterneck styles? Same. Looking for something strappy or with cut-outs? Say less. Whatever it is you're looking for, we've got something that'll guarantee you'll make an entrance and have 'em staring long after you're gone.

Our top picks for the best backless dresses in 2023:

See? Your summer cocktail dress line-up just got better. And if your excuse is that you get cold easily and you don't want to commit to the backless dress, then you should def grab one of these stylish jackets and join in on the fun :)

A-line Modal-Blend Dress

Become a watercolor wonder in this easy summer dress.

Rave Review: "This is easily one of the most beautiful dresses I own! It looks and feels more expensive than it is! It’s flowy and long and I’m tall (5’10”). I ordered an XL and I probably could have gone with an L but the XL is perfect. Also, the straps can be crisscrossed or straight back."

Crinkle Tie Strap Low Back Cowl Midi Dress

Cocktail party coming up? Turn heads in this icy number.

Aylah Halter Orange Sweater Knit Bodycon Mini Dress

Wear a pair of flatforms with this bodycon during the day and slip 'em off for some chunky heels at night.

Satin Ruched Mini Dress

Go for a satin ruched dress that's so ridiculously smooth, you'll never want to take it off. This bb comes in leopard print and black, too.

Waiting Game Sage Ribbed Open Back Bodycon Dress

This casual cutie can instantly be dressed up based on the shoes you wear. Stilettos, anyone?

Cheesecloth Textured Low Back Ruffle Tiered Maxi Dress

This is the kind of dress you can't wait to pull out while on vacation!

Endless Love Green Backless Knot Detail Fishtail Maxi Dress

Got a wedding coming up? Or, how about a fancy soiree? You should totally go for this fishtail maxi dress.

Backless Umiko Dress

According to reviews, this design is even brighter and more beautiful in person.

Satin Statement Cowl Neck Maxi Dress

A fluorescent color and draw-dropping silhouette is sure to make you the center of attention.

Backless Alanis Dress

Rave Review: Bought this for a solo-photoshoot and it was absolutely beautiful on—it's the perfect size, and a soft cream color over white which complimented my skin perfectly. Highly recommend, you won't regret!"

Sloan T-Back Slipdress in Pearl

Who said lounging around can't be luxurious?

Dasha - Silver

You know when you see a gown and you just know without a doubt that it's worth it? Yeahhh, this is one of those times.

Karlyn Long Sleeve Open Back Dress in Blue

I'm a sucker for this periwinkle blue and the fact that this backless dress has side cut-outs and sheer sleeves? Swoon.

Backless Maxi Dress

Rave Review: "I have this in black and bubble gum pink and when it’s back in fuchsia I’ll get that, too! Gorgeous dress. Great quality. Meshki never does it wrong."

Ruffled Floral Print Blouse

Flowy and f-a-b-u-l-o-u-s.

Dressed To Impress Satin Midi Dress Midnight Blue

Apparently, peeps are calling for restock in more colors! One reviewer said, "This is such an amazing dress!!! Put it back in stock, so many of my friends want to order for upcoming events!!!!" Emphasis on the exclamation points lol.

Crochet Knitted Open Back Mini Dress

Hit the beach with the crochet mini of your dreams.

Sculpt Knit Backless Halter Dress

Count on Aritzia to serve ya a staple item in multiple colors!

Michelle High-Slit Formal Dress

Rave Review: "This dress was so beautiful, I received so many compliments on the color and fit. I am 5’2 and 110 lbs. I ordered a small and it fit great but it was a little long. With high heels, I was able to make it work though!"

Knit Backless Abstract Maxi Dress

Rave Review: "I really recommend wearing this dress because the blue looks beautiful in all pictures! The straps also feel very comfortable and does not irritate the skin at all. Plus, the dress is such a steal!"

Lycra Satin Backless Dress

I would say this is a perf dress to wear to an after party... or just the club!

Halterneck Tie Detail Backless Maxi Dress In Green Slinky

We love a strappy design that goes criss-cross applesauce, lol.

Sunset Strip Maxi Dress

It's giving: "I'll meet you at the lake house for a night cap."

Satin Effect Print Dress

Catch me soaking in a sunset in this flowy, warm-hued midi.

Milan Textured Halter Tie Maxi Bodycon Dress

We love some booty-ruching, don't we?

Kaya Cupro Midi Slip Dress

Rave Review: "Wore this green dress in Mykonos, Greece for a dinner night at Nammos. I got a size small—I’m 5’4” and weigh 123lbs. It fit perfect. I got lots of compliments on this one!"

Hoop Long Dress

Stand out in this daring halterneck that features a simple lil hoop at the waistline.

Glen Purple Strappy Deep V Backless Maxi Dress

Deep v. Hella ruching. Rosettes. What else could you ask for?!

Trixie Textured Strapless Open Back Maxi A Line Dress

You'll be a whole vision in this textured, strapless smock. Guaranteed.

Flore Black Crystal Straps Backless Gown with Bow

Me: sees rhinestones and surprising pink bow. Immediately hits add to cart.

Why trust Cosmo:

Cosmo’s team of digital fashion experts—which includes Fashion Features Director Rachel Torgerson and Fashion Editor Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien—have decades of combined experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we’ve curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).

We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!

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