Style

Peak-Summer Dresses for Every Occasion

Written by: Aura Davies

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Published on: July 2, 2024

Fashion editor: Sandra Slusarczyk

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Photo courtesy of POSSE

When the mercury climbs and the humidity is so high it feels like the air itself is sweating, there’s something singularly appealing about a summer dress. It’s light, it’s airy, it’s effortless—and it can be a one-and-done outfit. Whether you’re looking for something short and swingy or long and flowy, sleek and black or boldly patterned, our dress shop has options. These nine are our current favorites—for everything from workdays to beach days to requires-an-RSVP celebrations.

  1. G. LABEL BY GOOP
    Market Dress
    goop, $595
    That retro-inspired cherry print could not be sweeter.
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    G. LABEL BY GOOP
    Day Date Dress
    goop, $625
    The straps are adjustable—wear them straight, crisscrossed, or tied as a halter.
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    ALEMAIS
    Players Minidress
    goop, $475
    That playful, art-brut-esque pattern? It’s the work of Barcelona-based artist Michael Swaney.
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  2. G. LABEL BY GOOP
    Mini Caftan
    goop, $425
    With its unrestrictive fit and dialed-in details, this linen caftan is cool in every sense of the word.
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    KIKA VARGAS
    Joni Dress
    goop, $840
    Not pictured: the long built-in tie that wraps elegantly around the neck.
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    KIKA VARGAS
    Kate Dress
    goop, $1,106
    This romantic slip dress is elevated by a single ruffle that cascades from hip to hem.
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  3. G. LABEL BY GOOP
    Patricia Striped Shirtdress
    goop, $575
    Cinch the waist with the included self-belt or swap in one of your favorite leather ones.
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    Ciao Lucia
    Elio Dress
    goop, $315
    The square neckline is so flattering.
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    CIAO LUCIA
    Anselma Dress
    goop, $415
    With its embroidered appliqué and blanket stitching, this apron dress has an appealing artisanal quality.
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Underneath It All

Wearing your normal bra is preferable, of course. But if the dress design is one where your bra straps or the underbust band would show, you’re going to need a creative alternative. Sometimes it’s as simple as swapping in a strapless bra. If the dress has a plunging neckline, you might consider nipple covers. If gapping is a concern, a few strategically placed strips of fashion tape should solve the issue. And when it comes to panty lines—or, more precisely, avoiding them: A thong is always a good option, but if you prefer more coverage, opt for a brief that’s smooth and not too cheeky.

  1. ThirdLove
    Nipple Covers
    ThirdLove, $27SHOP NOW
  2. ThirdLove
    T-Shirt Bra
    ThirdLove, $72SHOP NOW
  3. ThirdLove
    Bare Mesh Thong
    ThirdLove, $14SHOP NOW
  4. Natori
    Strapless Bra
    Nordstrom, $64SHOP NOW
  5. ThirdLove
    Hipster 3-Pack Box
    ThirdLove, $39SHOP NOW
  6. Braza
    Fashion Tape
    Amazon, $9SHOP NOW