As a native New Englander, this is exactly the type of dress I’d pack for an East Coast beach trip. The breezy, striped fabric and collared neckline are serving major old-money vibes—just add some oversized cat-eye sunnies and a pair of espadrilles to complete the look.

This retro-chic halter dress is surprisingly versatile, since it looks great with everything from cowboy boots to beachy sandals. The ruched waist and A-line skirt combination is universally flattering, and it even has pockets—score!

You know those sweltering summer days when putting on something form-fitting is absolutely out of the question? You’ll be so glad to have this linen maxi on hand, since its flowy silhouette is designed to keep you cool and comfy. Plus, the contrast trim and straps give it a polished look.

Wear this adorable plaid midi dress to a backyard barbecue or bottomless brunch, and I’ll genuinely be shocked if you don’t earn compliments. The drop-waist silhouette is right on trend for summer, and the adjustable halter neckline will make your girls feel oh-so-supported.

I know this crochet mini is *technically* a swimsuit coverup, but I could totally see it working for a music festival with some moto boots and a leather belt—after all, naked dresses are so in right now. Just wear a white bodysuit underneath for some extra coverage, and you’ll be good to go.

Remember how I said that dresses are a life hack for looking cute with minimal effort? This dress is the perfect embodiment, since its stretchy smocked bodice and flowy skirt looks elegant but feels ridiculously comfy. Note that some reviewers say that it runs large, so you might want to size down.

One look at this dress, and I can already picture myself wearing it to sip an Aperol spritz and nibble on charcuterie on some cobblestone-lined street in Italy. The polka dot print will look so stylish in your Eurosummer Instagram dump, and it won’t take up too much room in your carry-on.

I’m not sure if it’s the red-and-pink color combination or the contrasting stripes, but something about this dress reminds me of those viral Swedish gummy candies. I love that it’s made from 100% cotton, so it’ll be nice and breathable on hot days.

Planning an island getaway this summer? This sexy midi number deserves a spot in your suitcase. Its strapless silhouette will show off sunkissed shoulders, and its minimalist design gives you plenty of room to get creative with accessories.

Babydoll dresses are having a moment right now, courtesy of Olivia Rodrigo’s latest album rollout, and this lace-trimmed mini is an affordable way to try out the trend. Since it’s on the shorter side, we recommend styling it over a pair of bloomer shorts.

You wouldn’t believe how difficult it is to find a floral dress that’s not too white to wear to a wedding. This maxi ticks all the right boxes for a formal event, from its structured corset bodice to its romantic off-the-shoulder neckline. It’s available in over a dozen colors and patterns, but I’m partial to this pink, beige, and green floral.

This dress is the definition of “business in the front, party in the back,” thanks to its classy high neckline and sultry open back with a tie-up detail. Reviewers adore the stretchy fabric, and note that it makes for a great going-out dress on summer nights.

Doesn’t this corset dress just make you want to frolic barefoot through a field of flowers? The lace-trim accents, delicate floral print, and pleated skirt all add a touch of whimsy to this summer-ready mini.

Amazon has a shocking amount of fabulous wedding guest dresses for under $50, including this asymmetrical drop-waist number. It’s available in a few fun colors and prints, including this canary yellow that’ll look stunning with a tan.