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Sure, shorts and a tank top are an easy solution to beat the heat, but they’re not exactly easy to dress up or down, depending on what your day looks like. This is where the summer dress comes in; the lightweight, loose-fitting dress is easy to throw on quickly and well suited to summer conditions, making it a must-have in your outfit rotation. A summer dress is the perfect canvas for conveying your personal style, so really lean into styles that feel unique to you.
Try looking for ones made from breathable materials like cotton, linen, or silk rather than stuffy, artificial fabrics.
From plunging necklines and low hemlines to vibrant prints and fitted shapes, there are endless summer dress options to choose from. Ahead, discover eight ways to take your summer dress style to the next level.
Under a denim jacket
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When you’re out and about during the day, a summer dress can work wonders on its own, but when night falls and temperatures cool, a chic layered piece comes in handy. Denim jackets are just as versatile as a summer dress; their soft, fitted look can give your look a little edge and can dress up a simple blouse without looking too formal. Darker washes certainly look sophisticated, but for the warmer months we prefer lighter options.
With a button down
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Another piece to layer with a summer dress is a crisp button-down shirt. Similar to denim jackets, a button-down shirt can help dress up a dress with bold prints or an intricate design for more casual outings. Be on the lookout for cotton and linen fabrics to keep things airy with your layering. Nothing changes the shape of a shirt like a strategically tied bow. Whether you want to create a short, tucked or draped look, a simple twist can make all the difference.
On airy pants
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Pretty layering is a fresh take on summer dressing and for those looking for more modest fashions. A fitted mini dress transforms from a simple dress into an elegant one that will turn heads when worn with loose pants underneath. To instantly elevate and elongate your look, wear this outfit with a simple sandal or mule to anchor the look.
Fitted with a belt
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Although we love the complete picture that a summer dress paints, we place great importance on the details. Wearing a belt is a simple way to add visual interest to any dress and serve as a focal point of your look. If your summer dress is delicate, pair it with a wide, bold belt for a tough and soft effect.
With a thoughtful choice of sandals
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While you can never go wrong wearing a dress with sneakers, the sunny season is the perfect excuse to show off your fancy pedicure. So slip on your favorite pair of sandals that will pair your summer dress look with feminine charm. Summer dresses come in a multitude of hemlines to choose from, but whichever one catches your eye, make sure it keeps your toes in view, too.
Accessorize with a hat
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The ideal way to complete your sundress outfit is with a top hat. Not only do they serve the practical purpose of protecting you from the summer heat, but hats also offer plenty of stylish panache, especially when worn with a flowy midi dress. If you want to look like you’re on permanent vacation, opt for a wide-brimmed or oversized floppy option.
With a coordinated tote
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No outdoor summer OOTD is complete without a trusty tote bag to carry all your party supplies. When you’re going about your day in your favorite summer dress, carrying a straw tote bag adds pastoral and practical charm to your look, which is definitely preferable to a sad shopping bag.
In a chic print
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Sometimes simplicity is the way to go when dressing for summer, so looking for a summer dress with a streamlined silhouette is a no-brainer. However, just because you’re going for a simple cut doesn’t mean your dress can’t be exciting. Punchy, playful prints take the simplest sartorial silhouettes to stylish new heights.
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