30 Cute Summer Dresses to Wear on Warm, Sunny Days
They're the best way to beat the heat.
Every item on this page was chosen by a The Pioneer Woman editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
When it comes to a warm-weather wardrobe, cute summer dresses are always on the list. Scratch that—they're at the very top of the list, right above jean shorts, lightweight blousy tops, and even flip flops! After all, one of the best things about summer is getting to shed all of those layers for a few months before fall rolls around. Fun in the sun just wouldn't be, well, as much fun without a few affordable dresses.
While floral dresses often embody "spring," summer dresses, too, come in a vast variety of playful designs and styles. You can find bright pops of color, fun prints and patterns, and cute details like ruffles, tie straps, and tiered silhouettes. Of course, you'll find plenty of smocked dresses, too. If you're looking for something more sophisticated, that's doable as well: A crisp white dress paired with comfortable sandals works just as great at a beach party as a casual sundress does.
One of the most iconic summer looks, flowy maxi dresses, are another fun option to keep in mind. Lightweight and breezy, they're all perfect for sultry summer days and nights, while still offering leg coverage. You'll find a few cute options here, along with midi dresses, mini dresses, and knee-length dresses. Of course, you can browse plenty of dresses from Ree's new summer collection, too! Afterwards, you can top off your look with a retro-inspired pair of cat-eye sunglasses or a pretty straw hat.
Add to your summer wardrobe with these essentials:
The best part of this pick? You can dress it up or down to fit your every seasonal need. No matter how you wear it, the loose babydoll silhouette with ruffled sleeves and colorful florals will keep you feeling comfortable and looking stylish.
Stylish and down-to-earth, this cotton eyelet dress from Ree's collection is bound to be an instant favorite. You'll especially love the tiered skirt, flutter sleeves and smocked waist to accentuate your figure.
No matter the event, this ditsy floral-covered dress is sure to wow everyone in attendance. It has a flattering a-line cut and shirred waistline to match. We suggest a pair of espadrilles to tie it all together!
A carefree silhouette and cheerful gingham print make this dress a favorite for picnics, beach trips, and beyond! The tiered maxi skirt is just made for twirling in the sun!
Warm-weather adventures will be calling your name as soon as you slip into this casual yet cute pick from Ree's new collection. Seen here on Alex, it boasts a comfy cotton fabric, pretty puff sleeves, and a tiered skirt. Grab it in this teal, pink, or a black floral print.
For a style that you can simply slip-on with sneakers or sandals, try this casual t-shirt sundress. From florals and paisley to bandana and geometric, it comes in plenty of lively patterns. Plus, it has pockets!
These ruffles are too cute. You can dress this look up with colorful sandals or go more casual with a simple pair of sneakers. It comes in more than 30 fun prints and hues!
With its double layer lined design adorned in all-over lace then topped with dramatic trumpet sleeves, this sophisticated pick is the perfect occasion look for the seasons ahead. It comes in a navy shade, too.
Florals on florals, please! We're more than a little obsessed with this pattern from Ree's new summer line—and the easy-wearing, off-the-shoulder design with ruffled tiers and a belted waist just makes it even better.
New summer wardrobe staple alert! This super popular swingy dress features an irresistibly cool pattern and wrap-style closure. It comes in plenty of colors, too.
This beautiful dress will pair just as well with comfortable flip flops as it will fancy heels, making it an instant must-have. It's got a shirred bodice, self-tie sleeves, and a ruffle hem skirt.
Fun, flirty, and flouncy, this mini dress is just what your seasonal closet needs. The design includes a vibrant, charming print atop an A-line dress with a flattering tie-waist. It even has pockets!
Darling details like dainty daisy embroidery and a crochet lace-trimmed V-neckline bodice make this sweet dress more than perfect for all your upcoming outings.
Cupshe Soft Tropics Short Sleeve Mini Dress
Vibrant orange, pink, and blue florals make this dress a winner for the warmer months ahead! Add the ruffled skirt and breathable, breezy fabric for a pick you just can't pass up.
Get a summer camp feel—but for adults—with a fun tie-dye T-shirt dress. This one even has pockets! Major win.
Can't get enough of this can print dress? That's to be expected! It's downright fun! The flattering silhouette cut with a smooth-fitting, square-neck top and flounce skirt is just as irresistible.
That bright and bold geometric pattern is just the beginning of this fabulous find! Other features like a sophisticated spread collar leading to a full-length buttoned front, waist-defining tie, and lightweight fabric will carry you through the summer in style.
Linen is a go-to when the temperatures start to rise. The famously lightweight fabric will keep you feeling cool and looking cooler—especially when paired with that adorable shirtdress style in pretty pastel stripes.
Because you need a little black dress for summer, too! Besides, this one is just plain elegant! That's thanks to the scrunchie straps, tiered skirt, and all-over eyelet details.
Denim can be a little heavy for summer. But its cousin, chambray, is a great option for staying and looking cool in warm weather. We love the gentle shirring accents and the waist cinching self-tie belt on this one from Ree's line!
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.
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