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On very hot summer days, even shorts and a t-shirt can feel oppressive. Sometimes the only smart option is to slip into a sundress that’s light, breezy, lightweight enough to feel like you’re wearing nothing — while cute enough to ensure you look stylish.
The key is to choose a breathable fabric that will feel airy even when there is no breeze. Think cotton, linen or viscose, all light and comfortable. You should also prioritize sleeveless tops, flowy skirts that go with you and looser fits that feel more flexible. Below are a few of our favorites – and the best part? They start at just $9.
21 Simple, Easy and Breathable Summer Dresses
1. What we like: Made from 100% cotton, this eyelet lace dress is much lighter than it looks. It’s nice enough to wear to a party and covers enough skin to make it office appropriate.
2. Runner up: The light, thin material of this sundress makes it comfortable. Plus, we love the flared sleeves, flared skirt and pretty floral print.
3. Boho Vibes: Between the colorful flowers and loose fit, this tank dress has a boho inspired feel that works well with an everyday outfit. It’s flexible, comfortable and adds such a nice pop of color.
4. Minimalist Chic: This shift dress is proof that sometimes simple really is best. It offers a classic silhouette and comfortable fit, and the linen/cotton blend makes it look and feel comfortable.
5. Beach Vacation: If you’re headed to a beach getaway, be sure to pack this strapless maxi dress. It has a loose and striped design that gives it a nautical feel, and the linen fabric is light and refreshing.
6. Summer Lashes: There’s something about blue and white stripes that feels perfect for a summer day. This knitted sundress is light and has a nice stretchy feel and has a ribbed back for comfort.
7. The Unemployed Supermodel: Flowy and slightly oversized, this sleeveless maxi dress offers the kind of off-duty glamor that supermodels always flaunt. Wear it as a beach cover-up or a dress on its own.
8. Everyday Looks: Made from lightweight and stretchy viscose, this striped midi dress is comfortable enough to wear on errands. The light fabric has small holes in it which makes it feel very breathable.
9. Going to Summer: Casual and easy to throw on with anything, this theatrical sundress will be a wardrobe staple. Bright colors and prints make it more fun.
10. By the beach: Wear this flowy dress with your favorite flat sandals and earrings, and you’re ready to go. It’s light, goes with you and has a really nice color.
11. Effortless Chic: This sleeveless linen dress makes wearing a beautiful dress so easy. It’s one of those simple pieces that doesn’t really need anything to look good – but you can also style it with accessories to make it more fun.
12. General Business: While this button down shirt may not work for the office (unless a casual outfit is fine), it still has a polished look to it. The loose fit makes it easy to wear.
13. Fun and Practical: For days when you feel like you need a little more support than a simple dress, there’s this linen skort dress. It features built-in shorts that make it functional, but still have that breezy look.
14. Packed with: Between the loose, soft and breathable fabric and the open side pockets, this tank top will become an instant favorite. We love the unique neckline design for a fun touch.
15. Fairytale Emotions: This sheer cotton minidress has everything sweet, but still feels put together enough to wear. And you can’t go wrong with this gauzy fabric, which is lightweight but looks like denim.
16. No Bra Required: Do you want to make dressing easier and more comfortable? Choose this sundress without a bra, with a built-in bra on the shelf that provides real support and leaves you very comfortable.
17. Under $10 Warning: You can’t go wrong with this cotton mini dress, which offers a cute and creative silhouette and great color options. This is the go-to option if you don’t want to wear anything at all.
18. Euro Summer Vibes: Channel your inner European aura with this cotton striped dress. Yellow and white colors make it look like you are ready to hit the beach in Italy or France in the best possible way.
19. Best Cover: Go to the beach or the pool for dinner in this lightweight mini dress. The curved hem makes it look great, and we love the button top.
20. Inexpensive Finding: This cotton and linen dress combo costs less than $15, which is a real steal. It also features a simple, t-shirt-like design that will make it an everyday go-to.
21. Worth the Splurge: Made from organic cotton that feels incredibly soft and breathable, this midi dress is worth the extra money. It looks comfortable and can be dressed up or down, with a flowing, comfortable feel.
The transition from mild spring temperatures to extremely hot summer weather happens quickly, so it’s important to be prepared. Stocking your wardrobe with the right clothes is key – and you can’t go wrong with flowy dresses that look as good under a cardigan as they do on their own. These clothes will take […]
