When it comes to picking out an outfit, it doesn't get any easier than throwing on a sundress and heading out the door. Regardless of what is on your agenda for the day, a breezy dress can take you from brunch to a night out, just like that.
While sundresses for summer aren't a groundbreaking style, there is a lot of talk on TikTok on what defines a sundress, especially with many styles on the rise. According to Google Trends, "milkmaid dresses" rising 150% and "drop waist" is at an all-time high. So, we asked a stylist to help us define the term "sundress" and share her favorite ways to style them.
What is a sundress? | Midi and mini dresses | Drop waist dresses | Floral dresses | Maxi dresses | White dresses | Milkmaid dresses | How we chose | Meet our expert
Editor-fave midi dress$89.99$120.00
What defines a sundress?
A sundress can mean something different to a lot of people, says stylist Christina Stein, but she notes that since you'll be wearing it in really warm weather, it's all in the materials.
"I like to think a maxi, linen cotton-blend, very flowy sundress. That’s what it means to me. That’s what I go looking for when someone says 'I want a sundress'," says Stein. "A sundress to one client could mean florals. Another sundress to another client could mean bright colors, like yellows and oranges. So I think the color and the pattern is personal, but a sundress to me is light flowing material. I think that encapsulates it."
Another reason we love sundresses? Not only are they easy one-and-done outfits, but you can also jazz them up with a small heel or keep things casual with a pair of versatile sneakers. In fact, Stein says a pair of sneakers and a jean jacket (for cooler temps) are her favorite way to style a sundress. "I think it just makes it so approachable and not so like, you feel like nobody can wear it," she says. "I feel like when I say heels, people are just like, well, that’s just not me. That’s like not the majority of people."
No matter your style, there are plenty of flattering options that you can work into your wardrobe, whether you're trying to complete your vacation look book or need a few new ensembles for the office.
From flowy bohemian designs to everyday midi staples, we found plenty of sundresses that are sure to elevate your summer closet and have you soaking up the sun.
Midi and mini sundresses
Summer Boho Polka Dot Dress
This breezy dress is made with lightweight material and features a draped silhouette for a flattering, fuss-free fit. It also has unique details like flutter sleeves, side pockets and a tie waist.
Levaca Midi Flowy Dress
This midi dress has a simple yet feminine shape that’s casual enough for a spring picnic and dressy enough for a nice dinner at your favorite restaurant. It comes in 14 colors, and, thanks to the comfortable Spandex-blend material, you may be tempted to buy a few.
A New Day Mini Smocked Sundress
This 100% cotton dress is perfect for everyday wear, brunches and vacations. It features a stretchy, ruched bodice and adjustable straps spaghetti straps, and comes in options of bright colors or neutral shades.
Bohemian Floral Printed Wrap Dress
A patterned dress is a great way to spruce up your look for spring. This design has a comfortable wrap closure and is made with a lightweight cotton-blend fabric.
Abercrombie and Fitch Emerson Poplin Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
Associate editor Allie Wise was influenced to buy this Abercrombie dress after seeing women rock it on the streets of New York. "Not only is this flirty frock super comfortable, but it’s very good quality as well. I have it in the olive pattern, but want to get it in the tile print as well," says Wise.
Drop waist dresses
Ostoo Flowy Long Dress
This flowy dress dress hits two trends in one, it has a "milkmaid" style bodice with a longer drop waist. And reviewers say they loved how flattering it looked and felt. "I am very picky about my dresses and how they fit. I absolutely love this dress. The placement of the shirring is flattering so it hides any tummy pouch," wrote one verified reviewer.
Livtany Drop-Waist A-Line Tube Dress
Breezy yet elegant, this strapless dress has a true drop waist that mimics an old-fashioned bodice. It comes in a variety of colors for different occasions, such as bright hues for the summer season, or black or red for an evening out.
Quince Jersey Fit & Flare Dress
This might be your new perfect everyday dress. According to the brand, it's made with Tencel Lyocell and spandex fabric, which means you can expect it to be very comfortable. Not only is it on-trend for the season, but it also has pockets!
A New Day Dropped Waist Midi A-Line Dress
This simple dress canvas dress comes in three different colors — and has pockets! The open back design also features bow detailing for extra flair.
Aritzia Worldly Dress
According to the brand, the fabric of this chic dress has a 100% cotton skirt and a smoothing polyamide and elastic bodice. Also, the drop waist is extra long with the curve's seam hitting just below the hip bones.
Floral sundresses
Short Sleeve Sun Dress
Associate editor Shannon Garlin says she lives in sundresses during the summer and this Amazon find quickly became a staple, in fact, she has two! "It looks amazing with casual white sneakers for running errands or meeting friends for lunch," she wrote.
Boho Button Up Split Floral Dress
Looking for a versatile option you can wear over and over? This fit-and-flare sundress has a relaxed silhouette, which can pair well with sneakers. With the help of a necklace or a cute bag, it can easily be dressed up, too.
Summer Floral Midi Dress with Pockets
Combine the midi trend and floral style into one with this casual dress. If you look closely, you’ll notice it has a drawstring at the waist to create an adjustable and flattering fit. Plus, it has pockets!
Old Navy Fit & Flare Sleeveless Midi Dress
We're loving the sweetheart and a-line design of this dress from Old Navy. It comes in a variety of florals and colors, and is made of a breezy linen-blend fabric, says the brand.
Maxi sundresses
V-Neck Loose Maxi Dress
For something simpler, this maxi dress is a good option. It currently has over 30,000 verified five-star ratings and comes in multiple colors and prints. The material is super soft and creates a casual silhouette that makes the piece great for lounging or even a trip to the beach.
Floral Printed Maxi Dress
Stay cool and comfortable without sacrificing style. In addition to floral patterns, this gorgeous maxi dress also comes in vibrant prints and solid colors.
Amazon Essentials Tank Maxi Dress
This sleeveless dress is comfortable enough for lounging at home! It's made with a rayon-blend and has a silhouette that can flatter any body type.
PatPat Mommy and Me Maxi Sundress
If you're looking for a matching moment, this maxi dress comes in sizes for babies and girls, too! You can wear it to the next family brunch, on vacation or for a cute summer photo opportunity.
Old Navy Fit & Flare Rib-Knit Maxi Dress
"If you’re the sort who loves twirling in the meadows like you’re in The Sound of Music, then this is the dress for you!" says senior editor Jess Bender. "It has a ton of flow and movement, but also a generous amount of stretch around the hips and room around the stomach area if you’re looking to mask your tummy a bit. The material is beyond comfortable; it feels like I’m wearing a well-loved tee in dress form."
White sundresses
V-Neck Backless Lace Mini Dress
This simple dress pairs nicely with wedges or strappy sandals and features a delicate ruffled hem. It also comes in darker colors like black and navy.
A New Day Eyelet Midi Sundress
If you have beach plans, you might want to snag this classic white dress. According to the brand, it's made of 100% cotton, meaning it'll feel super lightweight and breezy.
Lulus Smocked Tie-Strap Midi Dress
This dress is perfect for everything from a walk on the beach to a picnic in the park. Pair with your favorite espadrilles and a fun hat for a chic and playful look.
Milkmaid sundresses
Summer Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress
If you’re looking to jump on the “milkmaid dress” trend, this coquette style dress has a flattering design with puff sleeves that can be worn on or off the shoulder. It comes in tons of different patterns, including a mini dress option.
Lulus Beloved Darling Midi Dress
This pink and white dress is feminine and flirty. It's a great find for a variety of occasions too, from brunch time with the girls to date night. You can even dress it down with a pair of white sneakers.
How we chose
We selected the best sundresses based on insights and recommendations from professional stylists and approved picks from Shop TODAY editors and staffers. Other sundresses were sourced through verified shopper reviews.
Meet our expert
- Christina Stein is a stylist and founder of Style By Christina.
