It's a universally shared fact that some days it's harder to find the motivation to piece together an outfit more than others. Be it due to waking up late, feeling uninspired by your closet, or just an unwillingness to shell out the time and effort into creating a look worthy of an Instagram post, we're not always in the mindset to look street style–ready.
For these days, we like to have a few back-up plans to rely on like a saved folder of outfit inspiration, some pre-styled looks we've created for a rainy day, or, the easiest trick in the book: a stockpile of great dresses. It’s always good to have an arsenal of dresses that capture the throw-on-and-go spirit without looking like you just, well, threw on and went. The right dress has the power to carry a look on its back, cutting out the need to fuss over finding the right shoes, bag, and whatever else you feel the need top off an ace outfit. Even better is it doesn't even have to cost you more than a fraction of what you're willing to spend.
Skip ahead for 24 affordable dresses that will truly do all of the work of pulling together a good look for you.
Dress it up with a pair of strappy sandals or keep things casual with some chunky sneakers.
This square-neck dress is great for almost any summer occasion.
We'll be wearing this printed mini dress until fall forces it from our cold, dead hands.
Looking to upgrade a simple jeans and tee look? Overlaying it with this mesh dress is the simplest styling trick you can pull off for a street style–friendly look.
The perfect summer dress doesn't exis–
Denim? Check. Miniskirt? Check. Puffy sleeves? Check. This standout dress covers everything we're looking for.
This belted shirtdress almost adds an illusion of a top and skirt. Let them think you put more effort into picking out a matching set than you actually did.
A bold print draws the eye straight to the dress, meaning you can spend less time fussing over any accessories.
We can't decide which we love more: the gathered puff sleeves or the bright magenta hue.
We bet you didn't know you needed a collared sleeveless dress until now.
A simple minidress can look more expensive than it is with the right amount of bodice detailing.
A tie-dye dream.
Take note from this model's addition of nothing more than casual sandals and keep this dress the center focus.
This bustier and T-shirt dress combo comes pre-styled for you.
The '90s dream team: leopard print and a babydoll dress.
We love a dress that fits in at your 9-to-5 just as well as it does at a weekend brunch.
Courtnee Ruthie has us sold on this sweet number.
A pre-belted dress means one less thing to worry about in the morning.
Colorblocking for the win.
Your entire ideal vacation look wrapped up in one fun frock.
The unexpected midsection ruching adds an exciting touch to an otherwise simple skater dress.
Dresses inspired by nightgowns are one of our new favorite trends.
Any dress that looks this good for $20 should be registered as a national treasure.
The easiest and breeziest of dresses.
Up next: 11 affordable and awesome brands to shop if you have Zara fatigue like me.
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