Can we take a moment to appreciate the beauty that is a great summer dress? It makes for easy dressing on uncomfortably hot days, when you don’t want to think about anything else, all while offering a confidence boost all season long. Thanks to the current trends, you can go casual or dressy with just about any style as well. That said, I can’t help but think we are in a golden era of dresses—the options and styling possibilities are endless.
This season, I have my sights set on a range of options that cover everything from minimalist basics to head-turning statement picks. One of my favorite styles, as you’ll see below, is a cutout dress. Ahead, check out five of the top dress styles everyone will be wearing this summer to run errands, to concerts and barbecues, and even to attend their loved ones’ weddings.
1. Side-Cutout Dresses
One of my favorite dress trends at the moment involves some cool cutout details, especially on the sides. What's great about this dress is that you can find an option for every personal style.
Shop:
This dress sold out so quickly the first time. Don't miss the cute floral reissue.
And it also comes in black.
This is the exact side-cutout dress that Lucy Williams has on in the Instagram photo above.
Here is an easy, effortless way to add a bold color into your closet.
This under-$100 black dress is one of my favorites in this entire story. It also comes in an orange-red version.
Hello, denim. How cool is this dress?
I love the rich camel color of this 100% linen dress.
2. Poplin Dresses
Poplin pieces are classic for warm-weather wardrobes thanks to their airy, lightweight feel. This season, it's not just about white poplin. Think standout options in bold colors and black as well. A voluminous sleeve is also very of-the-moment.
Shop:
This white dress is a blank canvas. Go bold with bright shoes and accessories or go minimalist with neutral tones.
Short and sweet.
I'm in love with this effortless blue-and-white striped dress.
I could easily live in this black option.
Green is having a major moment right now.
This is an elevated take on the shirtdress.
3. Smocked Dresses
The smocked-dress trend is still going strong. It makes dressing on a hot day super easy and comes in a variety of solid colors and pretty prints.
Shop:
This lovely dress is great for everything from a date to brunch to a friend's wedding.
Here's a bold yet stylishly simple dress for summer.
How pretty is this tied open-back option?
This pretty black dress is incredibly versatile.
What a beautiful blue. I'd wear it with white slide sandals or strappy sandals.
4. Fresh Floral-Print Dresses
I know, I know. Florals aren't groundbreaking, but every year the styles keep getting better and better. This season is no exception, as you'll see with my selects below—they are only a small glimpse at what's out there.
Shop:
I love the romantic feel of this dress. The ruffled sleeves are the cherry on top.
This floral-meets-vine print is delightful.
A great minimalist take on floral print this season.
A floral-print wrap dress is a great staple piece for summer.
This sweet daisy-print dress goes with everything from sneakers to sandals.
This gorgeous dress deserves a European countryside vacation.
5. Sleeveless Ribbed Dresses
A sleeveless ribbed dress will never go out of style, but this season there is a plethora of cool options. Go causal with sneakers or flip-flips, or elevate the easy dress with strappy sandals.
Shop:
This chunky ribbed dress can be worn alone or layered over a variety of pieces.
Here's a great neutral under-$100 pick.
This is a lovely midi-length option.
I'm a big fan of the cool cutout details. This one can easily be dressed up.
This chunky ribbed dress can be worn alone or layered over a variety of pieces.
Next Up: I'm 37, and These Cool Dresses Feel Perfectly Right for Me
-
Suddenly, Every Classy Fashion Person in Paris Is Wearing This Elegant Heeled-Shoe TrendA fresh take on classic Mary Janes.
-
Simone Ashley Is in the Fast LaneSince her breakout role in Bridgerton, our Spring Issue cover star has quickly risen to A-list status. Up next, she masters the rom-com leading lady.
-
You're Looking to Get a Head Start on Spring Dressing, and I Know Exactly What to Order—30 Chic Picks That Fit the BillA little something for every personal style.
-
Jamie Mizrahi's World: The Celeb Stylist's Favorite Red Carpet Look, Most Worth-It Shoe, and Album She Listens to on RepeatA modern-day style expert.
-
How Everyone Will Be Wearing Their Non–Skinny Jeans This SpringHere's your outfit inspiration.
-
Suddenly, Women With The Row Style Are Breaking This Fashion RuleYou should too.
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFWLet's dive in.
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears TodayA true fashion icon.
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% ClassicJust as you are.
-
Marriage Material: Selena Gomez's Pearl-Embellished Mini Is Giving Bridal VibesShe's in her engagement era.
