11 Dresses For Summer That Will be Your Easy One-And-Done Piece!

Best Summer Dresses

Don’t we all want to hit that “easy button” at least once in a while? One of the things I love most about dresses…especially in the summer, is the EASY, one-and-done aspect. Finding that special dress that looks great, feels great, and is cool and comfortable is like winning the wardrobe lottery. Bonus points if you find one that looks as amazing with sandals or sneakers as it does with wedges and heels because you’ll wear it non-stop. Then, that dress becomes your summer workhorse, an easy-breezy, grab-and-go piece! Each of the dresses I’m sharing today are versatile, summer staples. Keep scrolling for all of my summer favorites!

For even more dress inspo, we shared some killer maxi dresses here, summery white dresses here, AND dresses for special occasions here. And, if you’re looking for some summer sandals to go with those dresses, you’ll find the MOST comfortable sandals here.

 

#1) Alexis Cotton Midi

Let’s start with the color of this gorgeous Alexis dress. Green is such a universally flattering color on all skin tones and very on-trend this season. But that’s just the beginning because the fabric is the softest, breathable cotton that doesn’t wrinkle easily (yay for no ironing!). The slight puff-shoulder and adjustable drawstring waist help create a slimming silhouette. While this dress is described as a “midi” it’s really more of a “maxi” on me (I’m 5’4″ for reference). This is a perfect dress for ladies that prefer a bit of arm coverage. It also comes in white…which is always a great choice for summer. You could easily wear sandals or sneakers with this versatile dress.

#2) Velvet Blue Printed Maxi Dress

Did you catch yesterday’s post? I featured this dress and another amazing one-and-done piece for busy moms who really don’t have time to think about what to wear! A maxi dress is a must-have for summer…Throwing on a beautiful maxi (or midi) dress is SO easy and you still look pulled together and chic. This blue printed maxi dress is 100% cotton so it’s super lightweight, breezy, and fun. The one-shoulder neckline is flattering and the tie is adjustable. It is perfect for hot weather. I’m wearing a pair of strappy Marc Fisher heels that are SO chic and comfortable. But it’s one of those versatile summer dresses you can also dress down with sneakers or sandals. Oh, and it has pockets! Throw on a white denim jacket or blazer for more coverage.

If you’re interested, find 2 more ways to style this chic dress in this post!

 

#3) Elliatt Long Sleeve Dress

Having at least one occasion dress in your summer arsenal is a must. This white dress be Elliatt is ideal for a summer vacation, last minute dinner plans, an outdoor party…the list goes on. It has a boho feel that’s perfect for summer. I’m wearing it with slides for a more casual vibe. But you can easily dress it up with a clutch and heels. The fabric has a bit of stretch, it’s soft, and really comfortable. But, the star of the show is the sexy open back with the tassels! 😍 This dress is the perfect mix of sexy and sophisticated while also being casually cool.

#4) Free People Short Sleeve Dress

This Free People dress is not only a perfect everyday dress for summer… it’s really affordable too! I haven’t had a chance to take many photos in it, but it’s such an easy dress to wear. You can just throw it on with sandals like these Sam Edelman slides and BOOM, you’re ready to walk out the door. You look stylish and pulled together like you really put some thought into your outfit…but we all know it took you less than 2 minutes to get dressed! It has an adjustable tie-waist and a forgiving silhouette for those hot days when you just don’t want anything to touch you! It also comes in 6 other color options if you’re not a fan of red.

#5) Rhode Lulani Dress

It seems you all have been loving this dress as much as I do because it keeps coming in and out of stock. Sizes are very limited in the print I’m wearing, but it’s also available in pretty blue floral. I love this slight puff-shoulder and flounce hem which creates that coveted hourglass shape! I’m wearing it with wedges but sandals or slides would look amazing as well.  This dress runs a bit small so I recommend sizing up at least one size.

#6) Monique Lhuillier Jacquard Midi Dress

I can’t say enough about the beautiful color of this dress and how feminine and flirty it is. It’s tough to see in the photos, but it’s made of a jacquard material so it’s quite structured. The fitted waist and pleated bustline are super flattering and the full skirt…very forgiving. It also has pockets! You could pair this with a sun hat and sandals for a day out-and-about but it makes a great occasion dress too. Throw a blazer or denim jacket over your shoulders and you’re pretty much ready for anything!

#7) Alexis Daksha Dress

This dress checks a lot of boxes…versatile, lightweight, flattering, and functional! Just like the green dress in #1, this gorgeous little white cotton poplin dress is also by Alexis. I mean, when you find a brand you love, that fits you well, and is of great quality… why not embrace it?? This would be a perfect dress to pack for a beach vacation because it could double as a cover-up too. I love the eyelet ruffle hem…it’s such a fun and feminine detail! The version I’ve linked isn’t the exact dress I’m wearing above, but it’s this year’s updated version and I actually love the eyelet hem even more!

#8) Amanda Uprichard Saffron Midi Dress

Here’s another pretty and versatile, white summer dress. You might remember this Amanda Uprichard dress from last spring/summer. It was a best seller! It drapes so beautifully and has simple but elevated details at the neck and sleeve that give it that little extra something. It’s also midi length…perfect for warmer weather when you want to stay cool but don’t want to show your legs.

#9) Amanda Uprichard Daksha Dress

Remember what I said about finding a brand you love and sticking with it??  This dress is a shorter version of the Amanda Uprichard dress in #7.  I’m personally a big fan of BOTH the LBD and the LWD! Some people don’t like to wear black during the summer. But this dress really is perfect for summer! It’s lightweight, the perfect length, and the long sleeves are great if you don’t like showing your arms. It has a v-neckline, ruffled collar, and tiered hem which are feminine details that offset the black.

#10) For Love & Lemons Maxi

OK, so this maxi dress may not be the one you throw on to run to the grocery store, but…it would be perfect for a beach vacation as either a day/dinner dress or a coverup. It is completely sheer but has a built-in nude bodysuit underneath. If you want more coverage you would just add a slip. The sexy plunging neckline is offset by the longer hem and sleeve length and the crochet fabric is stunning. This is a head-turning dress for SURE.

#11) Patbo Dress

If you’re a newsletter subscriber or following me on Instagram, chances are you’ve seen me wearing this dress with a blazer, with heels, with sandals…riding a camel. I love it SO much and decided I was just going to wear it wherever and whenever I could. And right now, this exact dress, one in a similar pattern, AND 2 in the same pattern but different styles are all on sale. So, don’t hesitate on this one if you’re interested! I can’t say enough about how special this dress is and how special I feel wearing it.

If you’re interested, I shared more about this dress, the brand, and some look-a-likes for less in this post.

 Which one of these summer dresses is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

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