22 Summer Dresses You Need to Own

Look fierce for hot summer date nights in a flowing animal print dress in leopard, zebra, or tiger print.

Every woman needs a go-to little black dress in a lightweight fabric, to wear on summer evenings. This classic one shoulder style needs just a few neutral accessories, to look cute for going out.

12 black dress outfits we love for every season

What could be prettier for summer going out days and evenings than a colorful little lace dress? We love the style worn here, with its modern sheer details and midi length, that's wearable for dinners out, date nights, and special event dressing.

Put a smile on people's faces when you wear a whimsical summer sundress in a fruity print, such as the lovely lemons pictured here. This style is fresh, modern, and chic for brunches, sightseeing, and antiquing.

The little white dress is a summer closet staple that is wearable for casual weekends, and can be styled for going out at night. Choose one in a summer weight fabric, such as linen or washed cotton, that will keep you cool when the temperature rises.

The bros can have their Hawaiian shirts — we'll take a chic palm print dress any day of the week. Wear it solo to the beach or pool, then dress it up with a moto jacket and high heel sandals for going out at night.

The polka dot dress may be the most versatile item in your summer wardrobe. Wear one to work with a blazer or statement heels, to look sweet on on date nights, or for effortlessly chic style anytime.

Get stylish tips on how to wear  polka dots

The long, floral maxi dress is a must-have in your summer wardrobe, taking you everywhere from city strolls, to poolside cocktails, to wedding reception wear. A pattern with brightly colored blooms on a white background, as seen here, is one of the most versatile.

Check out more ways to style a maxi dress

Be the queen of one and done dressing, when you pull on an essential short floral sundress this summer. Choose a cheery print in your favorite colors, and wear with nude heels when you want to elongate your legs.

Meet your new summer work wardrobe essential. You can style a sophisticated sheath dress simply with a statement necklace, or dress it up with a blazer and pumps. It's a foolproof way to look well dressed for the office, and wearing to summer interviews.

Wear a menswear-inspired shirt dress on casual days this summer, when you want to look and feel cool. We like this boyish style with tie-sleeve details for wearing to the beach, with easy sneakers or flat sandals.

14 perfect beach outfits for summer

Turn heads in a cheerful, brightly colored yellow sundress that's absolutely made for wearing in the sunshine. Don't think you look great in yellow? Try a dress in another bright, saturated color, such as hot pink.

Every fashion girl needs a casual chambray dress she can pull on to look instantly cute on hot summer days. Wear it to brunch, the beach, or shopping, with easy sandals and a cute summer hat to protect your facial skin.

Look like you just jetted in from Palm Springs in a bold print summer maxi dress. We like the trendy mix of graphic stripes and florals in the dress style pictured here.

Women adore the wrap dress because of its figure flattering magic, and how easy it makes getting dressed in the morning. Wear one in a fun print for the summer office, adding a leather bag and chic pumps to dress it up, as pictured here.

Flatter your curves — and show off your assets — in a Marilyn Monroe-inspired bustier style sundress. we're into the pin-up appeal of this polka dot number, accessorized with a cherry red purse and shoes.

A dark floral dress is super versatile in your wardrobe. Wear it to look dressed up for work or cocktails all summer, then transition it into fall with a cute little jacket and ankle boots.

Wear a little bohemian-style dress to summer concerts and music festivals. Add accessories in natural fabrics, such as wicker or rope, for a naturally cute vibe.

21 outfits for concerts and festivals

Gingham is a favorite summer print that never goes out of fashion, and evokes sweet memories of picnics and park strolls. Style one with a trendy pair of sunglasses, and easy slides or sneakers, for a modern update on this classic piece.

14 fresh ways to wear gingham print

Sometimes, a girl craves a little romance. When you want to flaunt your feminine side this summer, you can't go wrong in a long, flowing, tiered maxi dress in a sweet, miniature floral print. This is a great style for wearing to summer wedding receptions.

What could be easier than a summer dress that is basically a long t-shirt? Pull it over your head to get dressed in a snap for casual weekends, or lazy days at the pool or beach.