“I Bought Four”: 32 Fabulous Dresses Just Perfect For Those ~Summer Nights~
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
The theme for this summer is ~dress~ comfortably *and* impress.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
1. A drawstring bodycon dress that expertly combines style with comfort thanks to a sophisticated high neckline and adjustable ruching on the sides, so you can take the length from short to MINI.
Promising reviews: “I purchased this dress last minute for my birthday and absolutely loved it… I received a lot of compliments and felt confident wearing this dress. It wasnât sheer at all, and the material is very soft. It hugged all my curves and showed my shape. Definitely will purchase in other colors!” âlaniya
“This dress is A-mazing! The fabric is so soft and silky but also has structure and because the sides are ruched, I can adjust it to the perfect length, which means a lot when you’re only 5’1. The ruching allows me to control the amount of fabric gathered in the tummy and behind areas… To sum it all up, I LOVE the dress and plan on purchasing at least two more in the army green and the brown because this style dress can also be worn in the fall and spring months with a basic or colored denim jacket and a cute pair of boots or booties!” âTonya
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in sizes SâXL and in 15 colors and styles).
2. AÂ spaghetti strap maxi dress, which boasts a peek-a-boo cutout on the torso, a seductive slit up the leg, and â wait for it â pockets!!! *squeals in delight* You could pair it with the most casual of flip-flops for everyday summer strolls *OR* dress it up with a pointed-toe pump and turn heads with some seriously sophisticated style.
Promising review: “I recently purchased this dress for an upcoming Greece cruise. I wanted something cute, flowy, and comfortable that could be dressed up or down. Once I tried this on, I was so excited I immediately ordered it in black, too. Great coverage for my 34D chest and it has adjustable straps. Nice slit in the front that isnât too high. Canât wait for this trip!!” âamber
Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes SâXXL and 25 colors).
3. A long-sleeve mini dress with a chic square neckline and ruffled hem, so you can look fantastic in semi-formalwear for your next summertime function.
Promising review: “Fit perfectly! I always get so many compliments on this dress. Iâll be wearing this dress until the bitter end. đ€Ł” âKelsey
Get it from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in sizes XSâXXL and in 16 colors).
4. A reviewer-loved printed maxi dress just perfect for gussying up this summer, even on the warmest of days, thanks to its breezy cotton material. The sophisticated notch neck will draw all eyes to your favorite asset up top, while still keeping the tatas contained with its collar-inspired design! So…what shoes are you going to wear?
Anthropologie
Promising reviews:Â “Iâve had my eye on this style for awhile, but I was pretty sure it wouldnât work for me. As someone with a 42H bust who wears sizes 26â30, the non-stretch fabric, fitted top, and deep neckline seemed like a long shot BUT itâs perfect!! So, so cute. Thank you for patterning for realistic plus fit!” âAnonymous
“I may own three Somerset Maxis now, with Light Sand being the third. They’re comfortable, breathable, and [look great on]. You can dress them up or down. I’ve worn one to a wedding and another one to work. Definitely recommend adding one (or more!) to your closet!” âCalKate
Get it from Anthropologie for $168 (available in XXSâ3X, three fits, and in eight different colors and patterns).
5. A satin asymmetrical A-line gown designed with a corseted bodice and serious leg split that is just ready for being seated front row at NYFW, but will still look great sitting (or standing) at your next charity gala, summertime nuptials, or even a ball inspired by your favorite romantasy novels.
Promising review: “UNBELIEVABLE!!!!! This is truly the most gorgeous, well-made, perfect quality, stunning gown we could have EVER purchased. Compliments for my daughter all night…BRAVO to the dress maker and the company for excellent customer service! Couldnât be happier! :)” âKelly Brock
Get it from Amazon for $59.99 (available in sizes 0â26 Plus and 39 colors)
6. A floral wrap dress that’s perfect for any summer event or occasion, with its colorful ditsy pattern! Plus, it’s features hidden pockets, so you can carry your must-haves on you without needing to pull off a balancing trick in your hands.Promising review:Â “This dress fits me amazingly; itâs adorable, and I will be wearing it to an upcoming wedding. Seriously so comfy as well, the material, the pockets, itâs breathable. Just love everything about this dress.” Â âAmazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes 14â26 and in 10 colors).
7. A tiered dress â this simple silhouette offers timeless style that can be dressed up or down, effortlessly with whatever jackets, shoes, and other accessories are just waiting to be worn in your closet. It’s giving “linen-look” without the outrageous price tag of actual linen, and we should celebrate that!
Promising reviews:Â “This dress is perfect; so comfortable and cute. Can wear with sneakers or dress up with heels.” âPaige Kim
“Very comfortable and cool (great in hot weather), cute enough to dress up for wine tastings, and it has pockets large enough to hold your phone, keys, snacks (shrimp? You do you). A stranger even complimented me on it, so 10/10 all around.” âMira
Get it from Amazon for $28.14+ (available in sizes XXSâ5X and in 20 colors).
8. OR, if you’re in the mood and have the means to splurge: a linen baby doll dress custom-made just for you, so you can worry not about if you can actually go braless (yep, you can!). Instead, enjoy the dozens of compliments you’ll get stepping out in this lightweight number that’ll still be comfortable even when those blazing summer days morph into humid nights.
Hanalulu / Etsy
Hanalulu is a Hanoi, Vietnam-based slow fashion business.Â
Promising review: “Beautiful, amazing quality and such a sweet person helped me. Will order again in the future!” âIsabella Murillo
Get it from Hanalulu on Etsy for $65.25+ (originally $77+; available in standard sizes or custom measurements).
9. A tank dress worth celebrating for the simple fact that it has *pockets,* but its relaxed fit also makes it a super comfy option for running around and enjoying the summer. And when the evening temps are a little cooler, just layer up with your favorite jacket!Promising review: “This dress is so simple and versatile…I bought four! I wear it around the house almost like a house dress or lounging wear, around town, over a bathing suit, and even to bed. It is really comfortable. I ordered a medium. A medium fits looser and natural, how I like, but I could probably fit into a small if I wanted a snugger fit, which might remedy the looser bust. I love it!” âAmazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $24.98 (available in sizes XSâ3XL and in 38 styles).
10. The Mila dress by Lisa Says Gah with a playful pattern inspired by your favorite seaside eateries and entrees. Stretchy jersey fabric, a plunge neckline, and built-in shorts make this a worthy addition to your summer wardrobe if you want to dress up for a casual lunch date without sacrificing your quirky style.
Lisa Says Gah
Lisa Says Gah is a woman-owned boutique designing unique and sustainable retro-inspired apparel.
Get it from Lisa Says Gah for $168 (available in sizes XSâ3XL and two colors).
11. A versatile slip dress just perfect for any occasion since you can dress it down with a pair of platform sneakers or look a little luxe with some pumps and accessories.
Promising reviews:Â “Perfect for the plus-size body! Love the fit, the feel, and the overall look. Purchased the leopard and the blue color.” âEve Thomas
“Love this dress so much. Itâs like wearing a satin nightgown but out in public. I pair a tank top over it and sneakers for a casual look. The material just hugs my curves with enough room to still move about.” âLewis Fam
Get it from Amazon for $27.45+ (available in sizes XXSâ5X and 21 colors).Â
12. A classic denim jumper for when you’ve got cute sunset picnic dates planned and want to look stylish, but stay comfortable. You could wear this throwback favorite with a crop top, tank, or tee to add a pop of color.
Promising review: “This is a unique dress. I’ve never owned an overall dress and I liked the way it looked… It fits well and is quite comfortable… I have worn it out shopping and out in public places. It pairs well with a simple t-shirt. It’s one of my most beloved dresses now. I will add that it does have a little stretch to it and the straps are adjustable.” âMesEHair
Get it from Amazon for $25.99 (available in sizes SâXXL and six washes).
13. A wrap V-neck swing dress that’s simple, and yet so so so elegant thanks to a pleated skirt. Not to mention, the thick shoulder straps are just perfect for hiding the straps of your favorite supportive bra, so you can dance all night long without worrying about a nip slip while fist pumping to “Shots” by LMFAO featuring Lil’ Jon.Promising reviews: “I wore this dress for New Yearâs Eve and I felt like a million bucks. It was comfortable and affordable!! I received several compliments and I look forward to wearing it again. All the colors were beautiful but I settled on rose gold. It didnât wash me out at all and the fit was perfect!” âHeather
“I bought this online for my little brotherâs disco themed wedding! It is just as it looks, and the fit was perfect (following the size guide). It is well-made and high quality! Not a single sequin out of place by the end of a night of dancing! My only complaint is that it was rough on the insides of my arms to rub on my sides all night⊠but it wasnât horrible. Now Iâm searching for another excuse to wear it!” âAndrea MacFarlane
Get it from Amazon for $45.99+ (available in sizes XSâ3XL and 19 colors).
14. A lightweight shirt dress for a sophisticated, summery fit featuring a collar neckline and adjustable tie-waist in case you like to put a precious bow finish on your style. If you (unfortunately) have to be in the office all summer, at least look fashionable on your way to and from your cubicle before enjoying that early Friday release!
Torrid
BTW, reviewers say this dress runs large, so you may want to size down from your normal size!
Promising reviews: “Wore to a wedding, received tons of compliments! Love the fit and comfort. Highly recommend this dress because it can be dressed up or dressed down!” âAmanda Salamy
“Get it! Better yet, get all three! The fit is large, so size down. I normally wear a 1X and the 0 fits perfectly without feeling snug in the arms. Flowy and not see-through. The tie waist has extra reinforcements in the front near the button openings to stop the tie from sliding up or down, which is amazing! I wish more tie waist dresses were made like this! It’s a light material, so it will be great for summer weather or warmer fall days.” âJen Bach
Get it from Torrid for $22.77+ (originally $75.90+; available in sizes 10â30 and two styles).
15. A vintage-inspired A-line dress in case you want to embrace those ’50s and ’60s vibes by stepping out in a pleated skirt just perfect for twirling and two-stepping on the dance floor all night long.
Some reviewers rec wearing it with a petticoat underneath for extra poof (like the reviewer on the left!). Check out BuzzFeed’s full write-up on this dress.
Promising review: “This dress exceeded my expectations! It’s so pretty. The belt is removable, so it can be worn however you want â tied in the front, back, or even the side. The top fits so nicely and I’m very happy!” âHarmony A.
Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes XSâ3XL and in 13 colors/patterns).
16. An off-the-shoulder smock dress featuring a slide slit as if you needed anything else to convince you to add this to your collection of summer-ready dresses. It’s giving main character energy and will look absolutely perfect with any jacket in your closet!
Promising review: “Bought this for our couples beach photo session in Oahu and it was PERFECT!!! I received endless compliments whenever Iâve worn this: to dinner, the farmers market, shoppingâŠanywhere and everywhere! The sleeves stay in place and donât ride up or fall down, very flowy. Buy two!!! You wonât regret it! :)” âChristi
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in women’s sizes XSâ4XL and 31 styles â not all sizes available in all colors).
17. A tiger-print dress for a âš fierce âš wedding guest style just perfect for the ceremony and reception, whether it’s local or a destination affair. Plus it’s made with cotton, so you’ll be comfortable as ever no matter the weather!
Babita Tex / Etsy
Babita Tex is a small business boutique, specializing in unique Indian-inspired apparel and accessories.
Promising review: “Adorable dress â I love the print and itâs just the right thickness for the summer. I get the feeling it runs a little small in the top so I think it would be a good idea to order a size up if you need space there.” âHeather Gallagher
Get it from Babita Tex on Etsy for $46.49 (originally $61.99; available in sizes SâXL, yellow, blue, black, and white).
18. A tie-waisted T-shirt dress in case you wanted to elevate everyone’s favorite basic with a more fitted silhouette that you could easily pair with pumps, sandals, or sneakers for an anytime warm-weather look.
Promising review: “This dress is so comfy. Iâm a teacher, so Iâm constantly on the move all day. This was the perfect length, and the pockets are greatâŠso big! I canât wait to get another color of this dress!” âAmazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in sizes SâXL and in 24 styles).Â
19. A casual maxi dress that takes the term “relaxed fit” to a completely new level with its flowy skirt and delicate spaghetti straps. This dress doesn’t need much to make a statement, but it’s so versatile you could wear it practically anywhere and still turn heads. Oh â and it has pockets!And reviewers suggest you order a size down if you don’t want a loose, oversized fit.
Promising review: “This dress is giving me life! Itâs beautiful!! Fabric is lightweight. Colors are bold and amazing! I seriously can never find a true maxi dress and this my friends is a true maxi dress!!! So all my tall plus-size peeps….BUY THIS RIGHT NOW!! Iâm going to buy more colors!!” âAshley Meadows
“I wear a 2/3X and this dress fit me perfectly. It wasnât tight but hugged me so I didnât look like I was wearing a bag. The fabric feels very nice and isnât see-through whatsoever. The pockets are a decent size too. My iPhone 11 Pro Max fit perfectly into it. The straps seem to be sturdy and I have no fear of them breaking. Very comfortable summer dress, get it!” âKirsten Michelle Gloss
Get it from Amazon for $29.98+ (available in sizes SâXXL and 24 colors).
20. A wrap dress just in case the most important part of your event outfit is literally how much leg you can show. It’s giving wealthy and Hamptons party vibes.
Promising review: “This dress is SO PRETTY!!! The minute I walked out I had so many people compliment on this dress I bought my regular size and absolutely love it!!! The quality is amazing…extremely soft.” âSarah Arshad
Get it from Amazon for $42.99+ (available in sizes XSâXXL and 23 styles).
21. A must-have, moisture-wicking tennis dress designed with built-in shorts and a built-in bra, so you can say BYE-BYE to summer chafing and underboob sweat ruining your style even on the hottest of days. Plus, the pockets on the shorts mean you can walk the dog or go for a “casual” hike without gripping your cell phone for your life! It’s called athleisure for a reason, am I right?
Promising review: “I was so excited to get this dress in the mail. I have been wanting to get one for a while and finally ordered. I love wearing this for walks, casual hanging out, or as a light workout fit. It is so cute. One of my favorite details is that the bra pads are removable! The straps are also easily adjustable. I have gotten many compliments on it, too! ‘Is that Lululemon or the Halara brand?’ Nope, Amazon ;).” âmaiya
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes XSâXXL and 17 colors).
22. A simple faux-wrap dress to keep you comfortable during those summer outdoor wedding receptions when the weather turns out to be much hotter than anticipated. đ„” Whether you choose to pair this with heels or flats, you’ll look and feel great dancing the night away at the reception.
Promising reviews: “I bought this dress for my graduation but Iâm going to wear it to work also. Very comfortable, good length and so soft. I can see where some people said itâs see-through but I didnât come across that issue. The pattern/color was exactly what I was looking for and itâs beautiful. It came pretty wrinkled but I steamed it and it stayed wrinkle free through the whole ceremony. It fits perfectly.” âCaitlin Maxwell
“This dress went beyond my expectations. I only wear dresses a few times a year but after this dress that is going to change. The fit was perfect and it felt nice on my body. The length was great. I was afraid that it would show to much cleavage, but it did not. It had a few wrinkles when I opened the package, but the wrinkles fell out very quickly. The color was absolutely beautiful. I canât say enough positive things about the dress. It was my first dress with pockets and that was amazing. Love, love, love the dress!” âBrittany
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 14â26 and in 23 styles).
23. A crochet maxi dress that’ll definitely start a conversation with friends and random passersby, who can’t help but admire the bright orange accents and bodycon silhouette. Ummm, this dress deserves to be worn to a patio / poolside / beachfront dinner, and you deserve to get a pic while drinking a perfectly crafted artisan cocktail.
Eloquii
And don’t worry, the dress is fully lined!
Get it from Eloquii for $89.97 (originally $149.95; available in sizes 22â28).
24. A stretchy, strappy open-back maxi dress in case, IDK you have to fly out to Greece for your best friend’s wedding and need a stunning, lightweight option that still meets your I-had-to-book-an-international-flight-to-see-your-nuptials budget. Someone might just have to “object” to how you managed to look so good and spend less than $40!
Promising review: “This dress is absolutely stunning! Love how flowy it is, the bohemian look, and how sexy the back of the dress is. Received so many compliments. Perfect dress for a vacation. Bought it for my trip to Bali and couldnât be more pleased.” âCarolina Orozco
Get it from Amazon for $36.99 (available in sizes SâXL and in 31 colors).
25. A rainbow-inspired midi dress with adorable puff sleeves and a sophisticated square neck â no more struggling over which color won’t make you look like a bridesmaid or event staff. The solution? Wear every color!Mr Water New York on Etsy
Mr. Water New York is an Asian American- and woman-owned fashion brand delivering unique apparel that makes a big statement.
Promising review: “I absolutely love this dress!! I get so many compliments when I wear it and itâs truly one of a kind.” âVictoria Kennedy
Get it from Mr. Water New York on Etsy for $99 (available in sizes XSâXXL).
26. A chiffon maxi dress that’s basically runway â I mean, event-ready with a versatile 2-in-1 design, so you can wear it open and flowy or belted for a more fitted style. Either way, you’re bound to turn heads at the function!It comes with a removable belt of the same material!
Promising review: “This is my new favorite dress! I’m 5’7″ and a size 24/26 and ordered a XXL Tall. I was worried this dress wouldn’t fit, and it fits PERFECTLY. It’s so flowy and I was even able to wrap the tie around my waist and tie it in a floppy bow. The length was just right on me, any longer and it would’ve been too long. I loved how lightweight this material is, and I loved how the dress moved when I walked, danced, or when the wind blew by. It’s a gorgeous dress and I got several compliments. 100% pleased with this purchase!!!” âElizabeth B.
Get it from Amazon for $42.99+ (available in sizes MâXXL and seven styles).
27. A summer-ready cotton eyelet dress designed with elegant flutter sleeves and a sophisticated A-line silhouette, so you can sip your ice cold beverage during the post-ceremony cocktail hour in style. Just trust me, that you won’t have any time to relax because everyone will be rushing over to compliment your outfit!
Promising review: “I absolutely loved this dress. Bought this one and two others off Amazon for family pics and this one was the winner. I was so glad I wore it too because the pics came out perfect. If you have a large chest it might be an issue but Iâm 36A so I had no issues. This could easily be dressed up and would make a great Easter, wedding guest, or summer party dress.” âLindsey
Get it from Amazon for $37.98+ (available in sizes XSâXXL and in 18 colors).
28. A splurge-worthy button-front linen dress, which offers timeless style you can depend on year-round for a quick and easy outfit that’ll still reel in all the compliments! It’s lightweight and oversized, so all you really need to worry about is what pair of shoes to wear.
Linenia/Etsy
Linenia is a small business based in Texas creating premium-quality, made-to-order linen apparel.
Promising review: “This dress is a real beauty! VERY well made (as are all their items), comfortable, lovely midweight linen. I got it in the beautiful cornflower blue. This is my fourth purchase from Linenia, and I will be buying more. Mark, you’ve exceeded my expectations yet again!” âschmogo
Get it from Linenia on Etsy for $89.25+ (originally $119; available in sizes Sâ2XL and 41 colors).
29. A floral maxi dress for anyone who loves a pattern and wants to step out in style and comfort this summer. A square neckline and shirred bodice offer a touch of sophistication to this vacation-ready outfit, and the climbing slit up the leg makes it a great flirty option for date night!
Promising reviews: “I am 5â3â 230lbs and carry more weight in my mid section. The XL plus fit me perfect and like a true 1X size. I did have to wear a strapless bra with it or else bra straps would be sticking out. The slit came a little high up on my leg for my tastes since Iâm short, but nothing a safety pin couldnât quickly change. Good quality and just as itâs pictured.” âKatie
“This is my new favorite dress. I bought it for a cruise as just a day dress. The moment I put it on I knew it was so much more. Perfect for a nice expensive restaurant or a day out in the sun. It’s sooooo comfortable, and it flows perfectly. I feel like a goddess in it. The material is soft and sturdy. The top is not binding and hides bra straps while being good for bigger busts. I’m in love with this dress.” âJen Dart
Get it from Amazon for $42.99+ (available in sizes Lâ4XL and 10 styles).Â
30. A tie-neck cocktail dress with ruffles on the sides, sleeves, and hem â in this, you will definitely be the life of the party!Promising review: “This is a very beautiful, fashion-forward dress. It looks just like the picture. I wore it to a wedding and received many compliments. Please note, the dress is not a stretchy material. Although I ordered a size up, I would suggest ordering one or two sizes up if you would like the dress to fit loose or fall closer to your knees because itâs very short.” âQuinna LaMark-Smith
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes XSâXL and in four colors).
31. This viral Skims soft lounge dress if your wardrobe is lacking an anytime, anywhere piece that’s comfortable but also shows off your curves in all the right ways. It’s loungewear, sure, but it also makes an effortless outfit for running errands or meeting a friend for dinner if you pair it with a jacket and platform sneakers or sandals!
Skims
Promising review: âI love this dress so much! Iâve been struggling to find dresses that are comfortable and fit my physique/body/height! This one is perfect! Itâs super lightweight and super comfortable! Also fits like a glove! I got an XL, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly.â âCharlitty
Get it from Skims for $80 (available in sizes XXSâ4X and four colors).
32. A satin cowl neck midi dress just perfect for whenever you need to gussy up for a special occasion, like a wedding, gala, or even a semi-formal event. Plus, reviewers rave about how comfortable and easy to move in it is!
Promising review: “This dress is super gorgeous and totally worth the money! TikTok made me buy it and it was on sale, so even better. The fabric is also really good quality.” âMelanie
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in sizes XSâXL and in 22 colors and patterns).
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.
