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 wasn’t sheer at all, and the material is very soft. It hugged all my curves and showed my shape.
Definitely will purchase in other colors!" — laniya "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!" — Tonya Get it from Amazon for $27.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in 25 colors and styles).
2. A mini shift dress just perfect for twirling till the sun comes up on the dance floor celebrating your bestie's nuptials. This lightweight dress features a bold abstract print and deep V cutouts on the front and back, so you look and feel good from ceremony to last call.
Get it from Impressions for $52 (available in sizes S–3XL and in navy and olive). Impressions is an Arkansas-based woman-owned boutique serving up stylish apparel that can fit your budget. 3.
A spaghetti strap maxi dress , which boasts a peek-a-boo cutout on the torso, a seductive slit up the leg, and — wait for it — 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 isn’t too high .
Can’t wait for this trip!!" — amber Get it from Amazon for $46.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 19 colors). 4.
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. I’ll be wearing this dress until the bitter end.
🤣" — Kelsey Get it from Amazon for $43.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 15 colors). 5.
An embroidered tulle dress just ideal for all those weddings, baby showers, and other events your friends and family have packed your summer schedule with. Plus, it's lightweight, so you can wear it comfortably all day long — from your seat to the dance floor. Promising review: "I don’t ever write reviews but had to because this dress is literally EVERYTHING!! It’s so pretty and the fabric is high quality.
I just wish for more occasions to wear it!!" — Norah Barnes Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in sizes 0–28 Plus and in 13 colors). 6.
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 Bridgerton Ball. 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! Couldn’t be happier! :)" — Kelly Brock Get it from Amazon for $64.
99+ (available in sizes 0–26 Plus and 39 colors) 7. 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: "This dress fits me amazingly; it’s adorable, and I will be wearing it to an upcoming wedding.
Seriously so comfy as well, the material, the pockets, it’s breathable. Just love everything about this dress." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $32.
99 (available in sizes 14–26 and in 14 colors). 8. A tiered dress — 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: "This dress is perfect; so comfortable and cute. Can wear with sneakers or dress up with heels." — Paige 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." — Mira Get it from Amazon for $38.20+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and in 20 colors).
9. 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 is a Hanoi, Vietnam-based slow fashion business. Promising review: "Beautiful, amazing quality and such a sweet person helped me. Will order again in the future!" — Isabella Murillo Get it from Hanalulu on Etsy for $57.
75+ (available in standard sizes or custom measurements). 10. 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!" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in 45 styles).
11. A slinky slip dress to keep you cool even in the hottest of weather (hello, summer heatwaves) and also allow you to layer up and still look your best when those summer evenings are chillier than expected. There's a reason the slip silhouette will literally never go out of style.
Up above (on the right) is BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly, and she owns this dress in black. She loved it so much..
.she wore it over and over again until buying a SECOND ONE in Spiced Burgundy during Black Friday sales last year! Get it from Aritzia for $118 (available in 13 colors and sizes 2XS–2X). 12.
Orrr a more budget-friendly 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: "Perfect for the plus-size body! Love the fit, the feel, and the overall look. Purchased the leopard and the blue color.
" — Eve Thomas "Love this dress so much. It’s 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." — Lewis Fam Psst — if you have Amazon Prime Wardrobe , you can try this piece out before you buy it! Get it from Amazon for $43.92+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and 25 colors).
13. A super chic mini dress with five different bold floral patterns to choose from and delicate ruffled sleeves for a unique style that stuns, whether at the beach, brunch, or on a romantic date on a ~hot~ summer night. Promising review: "This dress is a dream.
It’s just the right length, the arms are not tight. It’s lightweight without feeling cheap. The material is the kind I like — thicker, not sheer, slightly textured feel to it.
I’m a US size 16/18 (18 is usually too big) and ordered a XXL. It’s cute, I would order this again in a different pattern." — K8dlynn Get it from Amazon for $33.
99 (available in sizes L–4XL and four styles). 14. 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 Year’s 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 didn’t wash me out at all and the fit was perfect!" — Heather "I bought this online for my little brother’s 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 wasn’t horrible.
Now I’m searching for another excuse to wear it!" — Andrea MacFarlane Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes XS–3X and 23 colors and fabrics). 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. 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 — tied in the front, back, or even the side. The top fits so nicely and I'm very happy!" — Harmony A.
Get it from Amazon for $34.69+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in 40 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 I’ve worn this: to dinner, the farmers market, shopping..
.anywhere and everywhere! The sleeves stay in place and don’t ride up or fall down, very flowy. Buy two!!! You won’t regret it! :)" — Christi Get it from Amazon for $28.
99 (available in women's sizes XS–4X and 40 styles). 17. A tiger-print dress for a ✨ fierce ✨ 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! Promising review: "Adorable dress — I love the print and it’s 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." — Heather Gallagher Get it from Babita Tex on Etsy for $61.
99 (available in sizes S–XL). Babita Tex is a small business boutique, specializing in unique Indian-inspired apparel and accessories. 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. I’m a teacher, so I’m constantly on the move all day.
This was the perfect length, and the pockets are great...
so big! I can’t wait to get another color of this dress!" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in 22 styles). 19.
An under-$30 floral midi dress with a "smoking hot" bodycon design that makes a big statement *and* looks like you put in a lot more effort than you actually did. Reviewers say it runs small and recommend sizing up for the perfect fit! Promising reviews: " The dress is body hugging in a good way. I bought my size based on the measurements provided by the seller and the dress fit great.
It is stretchy, but the dress holds its shape well. I like the fit so much that I will be ordering this dress in other colors." — Julia Sandoval Get it from Amazon for $22.
99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 14 styles). 20. 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 — 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! It’s 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!! I’m going to buy more colors!!" — Ashley Meadows " I wear a 2/3X and this dress fit me perfectly. It wasn’t tight but hugged me so I didn’t look like I was wearing a bag.
The fabric feels very nice and isn’t 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!" — Kirsten Michelle Gloss Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 23 colors).
21. 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 day party vibes.
BTW, you can try out this dress before buying if you have Amazon Prime Wardrobe ! 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." — Sarah Arshad Get it from Amazon for $45.99+ (available in sizes XS–2XL and 29 styles).
22. 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 ;)." — maiya Get it from Amazon for $37.
99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 10 colors). 23. 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.
🥵 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 I’m going to wear it to work also. Very comfortable, good length and so soft.
I can see where some people said it’s see-through but I didn’t come across that issue. The pattern/color was exactly what I was looking for and it’s beautiful. It came pretty wrinkled but I steamed it and it stayed wrinkle free through the whole ceremony.
It fits perfectly." — Caitlin 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 can’t say enough positive things about the dress.
It was my first dress with pockets and that was amazing. Love, love, love the dress!" — Brittany Get it from Amazon for $35.99 (available in sizes 14–26 and in 21 styles).
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 couldn’t be more pleased.
" — Carolina Orozco Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and in 32 colors). 25.
A chiffon maxi dress that's basically runway — 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!!!" — Elizabeth B. Get it from Amazon for $42.
99+ (available in sizes M–XXL and 29 styles). 26. 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 I’m 36A so I had no issues. This could easily be dressed up and would make a great Easter, wedding guest, or summer party dress." — Lindsey Get it from Amazon for $41.
65 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 22 colors). 27. A maxi-length dotted sun dress just perfect for attending that July wedding or birthday picnic you've been invited to, which you already know will be a scorcher.
At least you'll look hot, too. 🥵 Promising review: "I love love love this dress! It looks great, feels good, and I got tons of compliments. It's a little tight in the bust, but I'm big-busted.
It still fit. I wore a thin-strap black bra and the straps didn't show. It would be fine to wear without a bra or a strapless bra — it's not sheer.
The skirt is full and swishy. The slit up the leg is not obvious — it's just right." — Piper Winifred Get it from Amazon for $40.
99 (available in sizes S–XL and eight styles). 28. A puff-sleeve mini dress because it delivers a super chic style with a square neckline and adjustable sleeves that can be worn on or off the shoulder.
If the occasion calls for a new dress, but your budget has barely any room to spare, this will do the trick without spending lots of your hard-earned cash! Promising reviews: "I loved this dress. I got the 2X and it was a smidge big but was incredibly comfortable. The back is stretchy so you have wiggle room.
The sleeves fall sometimes but that’s to be expected with this cut. 10/10 recommend." — Marc "Need I say more.
...
it’s perfect. For reference, I am 5’2”, 38DD, size 20 pant, 260 lbs and I carry most of my weight around my midsection (PCOS) 🙄. The back where the zipper is has shirred fabric and it’s super stretchy.
The length hit just below my knee. The neckline and tiered sleeves have elastic but it was not bothersome. It is lightweight but the skirt is lined and feels good quality.
I bought two sizes, the 2X and the 3X. Ultimately I kept the 3X. They both fit fine, I just liked the roomier skirt on the 3X.
I will say if you have a good strapless bra, definitely wear it as the neckline is SO open front and back. I used a balconette bra which has wide set straps and just tucked the edges of the neckline under the straps. It worked because it puffed the sleeves up a bit more which added to the romantic feel of the dress.
It’s just chefs kiss. Buy the dress. " — Max Miller Get it from Amazon for $39.
99 (available in sizes L–4X and seven colors). 29. 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.
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!" — schmogo Get it from Linenia on Etsy for $119+ (available in sizes S–2XL and dozens of colors). Linenia is a small business based in Texas creating premium-quality, made-to-order linen apparel. 30.
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 5’3” 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 I’m short, but nothing a safety pin couldn’t quickly change. Good quality and just as it’s pictured.
" — Katie "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.
" — Jen Dart Get it from Amazon for $48.99 (available in sizes L–4X and 17 styles). 31.
A tie-neck cocktail dress with ruffles on the sides, sleeves, and hem — 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 it’s very short." — Quinna LaMark-Smith Get it from Amazon for $39.
99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in four colors). 32. 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! Promising review: “I love this dress so much! I’ve been struggling to find dresses that are comfortable and fit my physique/body/height! This one is perfect! It’s super lightweight and super comfortable! Also fits like a glove! I got an XL, which is my usual size, and it fits perfectly.” — Charlitty Get it from Nordstrom (available in sizes XXS–4X and in ten colors) or Skims for $80 (available in sizes XXS–4X; five colors). 33.
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.
" — Melanie Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 23 colors and patterns). The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.
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