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Forget That Memorial Day Rule—I'm Wearing These 20 Short White Dresses Right This Instant

From tenniscore to Bachelorette party-worthy

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short white dresses for any occasion
lulus/tuckernuck/abercrombie

There’s no question that white is an incredibly versatile hue, which is why the “don’t wear white after Memorial Day” rule is such a bummer—but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, I'd like you to consider disregarding that sentiment and start wearing white clothes year-round.

That said, with warm weather sneaking its way into the forecast, there’s no better time for stylish rule-breakers to stock up on some short white dresses—or, as I like to call them, LWDs—to allow your legs to (finally) get some fresh air. As I scoured the market for the hottest new dresses, I factored in its material, size availability and customer reviews (four out of five stars and higher, please). The resulting list features 20 styles that all pair well with a trendy hat and a pair of sandals. Just sayin'.

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The 20 Best White Dresses at a Glance

1

Best Budget Short White Dress

H&M Gathered Dress with Flared Skirt

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2

Sexiest Cutout Short White Dress

Superdown Nara Mini Dress

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3

Most Stylish Strapless Short White Dress

Reformation Gabby Dress

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4

Most Flattering Short White Flared Dress

Belongsci Flared Mini Dress

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5

Simplest Short White Dress

Abercrombie Traveler Mini Dress

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How I Chose the Best Short White Dresses

To pick the best short white dresses, I looked at a variety of options from popular retailers, reading carefully through reviews (if available) to sift out any glaring issues, like poor craftsmanship or too-sheer material. I picked dresses that came in a variety of sizes and came in a few styles, from body-con to long and flowy. I also chose dresses that came at a variety of price points that would work whether you need a quick option for a bachelorette party or a go-to short white dress that will be a staple in your closet for years.

40 of Our Favorite Spring Wedding Guest Dresses (Starting at Just $36)


Best Budget Short White Dress

1. H&M Gathered Dress with Flared Skirt

H&M

If you’re looking for something to catapult directly into your everyday outfit rotation, this H&M Gathered dress will be your new go-to. Aside from being designed with a stylish fitted bodice, it’s also made of soft and breathable jersey for all-day (and all-night) comfort. Plus, its simple silhouette means practically anything goes when it comes to throwing an outfit together with this frock.

Fast Facts

  • Material: polyester and spandex
  • Size range: XXS–XL

Sexiest Cutout Short White Dress

2. Superdown Nara Mini Dress

Superdown

For anyone grasping onto the cutout trend and not letting go, please meet this Superdown Nara mini dress. Aside from ticking the boxes of being sexy and trendy, this fully-lined dress boasts a surplice front and hidden side zipper closure to make getting ready a breeze. Reviewers also say it’s very comfortable!

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: “This dress hugs you in all the right places. It's super comfy and chic. It’s definitely a cute ‘fit to wear for a fun night out!” —Stephanie G.
  • Material: polyester and spandex
  • Size range: XXS–XL

Most Stylish Strapless Short White Dress

3. Reformation Gabby Dress

Reformation

This splurge-worthy Reformation Gabby mini dress’s style factor makes it well worth its price tag. It fitted look features eye-catching smocking in the back, and I promise you'll be turning heads from the beach to the bar and back. For brides-to-be, the lacy detailing in the white glitter option would make for the perfect after-party dress on your big day.

Fast Facts

  • Material: polyester
  • Size range: 0-12

Most Flattering Short White Flared Dress

4. Belongsci Flared Mini Dress

Belongsci

How do you update a classic? Stick to a streamlined silhouette with a trendy twist. This simple, sleeveless Belongsci flared mini dress is the perfect example, thanks to its playful side cutouts. The best part? It’s a phenomenal morning-meeting-to-happy-hour dress. Throw on a blazer to conceal the side cutouts at work, then take it off for a flirtier happy hour look when 5 p.m. (finally) arrives.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: “It is so adorable! The cutouts are cute but not too revealing, and it gives me a perfect shape. The fabric is light but not see-through.” —Carrie R Wright
  • Material: polyester and spandex
  • Size range: XS–XXL

Simplest Short White Dress

5. Abercrombie Traveler Mini Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

This versatile Abercrombie mini dress might win the “simplest” award for aesthetic purposes, but don’t let its exterior fool you. It’s super stretchy and comes with built-in shorts, which have a hidden cellphone pocket (!!!) and adjustable straps, so the dress will fit you exactly how you want it to.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: “This dress is essential for summer. I have four already! The shorts on the inside are perfect for holding your phone, and the outer layer covers up all your insecurities! It gives you the perfect shape and a serious boost of confidence!” —Maddie
  • Material: nylon, elastane and polyester
  • Size range: XXS–XL (available in petite, regular, and tall lengths)

Trendiest Short White Dress With Sleeves

6. Prettygarden Lantern Sleeve Dress

Prettygarden

Not ready to embrace sleeveless season yet? This Prettygarden lantern sleeve dress will satiate all your LWD desires while still providing you with the long sleeves you’re yearning for. Reviewers cannot stop raving about how flattering this little number is, especially because of its tie-waist design.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: “I LOVE this dress. It's so flattering for all body types. I bought white for my bridal shower, and I'm getting ready to order it in another color, too!” —Tricia
  • Material: rayon and polyester
  • Size range: S–XL

Most Professional Short White Blazer Dress

7. Unique21 Asymmetric Blazer Dress

Your professional wardrobe is about to get a major upgrade with this Unique21 Asymmetric Blazer Dress, which truly lives up to its name with its unconventional asymmetric hem and gold button detailing. The compliments will be flowing the second you step out in it.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: “I'm so very pleased with this dress, I actually want to order a few more in different colors for my work wardrobe. But it also is nice as a jacket for a sort of casual outfit, as well. Surprisingly warm too. The jacket also has a nice weight to it.” —Analicia Jenks
  • Material: polyester
  • Size range: XS–3XL

Most Comfortable Plus-size Short White Dress

8. Pinup Fashion Plus Size Puff Sleeve Sundress

MakeMeChic

You'll want to twirl the second you step into this Pinup Fashion sundress. It touts a stylish ruched bodice, shirred waist, flouncy hem and trendy sheer puffy sleeves. The breezy chiffon material is ideal for a summer's day—and an impromptu "strolling through the park" photo shoot.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: “I love this dress as it is so cute. The style, the little see through sleeves, the stretchy bosom, the double layer fabrics, the texture of the sheer black outer fabric with the little dots, the way it flows when I twirl, and I simply love wearing this dress.” — Amazon33 Customer
  • Material: polyester and spandex
  • Size range: 14 Plus–26 Plus

Best Floral Short White Dress

10. ASTR the Label Floral Lace Mini Dress

ASTR the Label

If you adore lace and florals, this ASTR the Label Floral Lace Mini Dress deserves a spot in your closet. It features a bustier-style silhouette, puffed sleeves, a back cutout and lace detailing, which makes it pretty and detailed. It's soft enough for wearing to a tea party while edgy enough to turn heads, no matter where you wear it.

Fast Facts

  • Material: cotton and nylon
  • Size range: XS–L

Chicest Short White Graduation Dress

11. Lulus Bubbly Love Corset Mini Dress

Lulus

Complete with a sweetheart neckline and corset bodice, Lulu's corset mini dress touts a sleeveless silhouette, thick straps, a princess skirt and fitted waist, all of which makes it a total winner in my book.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: "Looove this dress! I received so many compliments; I paired it with lace gloves and stockings. I had it shortened an inch because it was too long for me. The color and cut of the dress is beautiful, and the quality is great too." - Vanessa C.
  • Material: Polyester
  • Size range: XS–L

Most Accentuating Short Tight White Dress

12. Zara Draped Asymmetric Dress

Zara

For a more form-fitting option, this asymmetric Zara dress is made with comfortably stretchy fabric, with two cutouts and a one-shoulder design. In other words, this frock is practically begging to be worn to a dance party or girls’ night on the town. Oh, and don’t forget the walkable heels to pull it all together!

Fast Facts

  • Material: cotton and elastane
  • Size range: S–L

Flirtiest Short White Eyelet Dress

13. Sea New York White Elysse Embroidery Tunic

Tuckernuck

This Sea New York embroidered tunic is the easiest thing to throw on before you rush out the door in the summer. It has a roomy, relaxed silhouette, with short sleeves and a stunning eyelet trim detailing throughout that is so whimsical. It's so comfortable that you’ll find yourself wearing it all spring and summer long.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: "The dropped waist on this mini is so flattering, and the material/eyelet pattern are absolutely beautiful. It does have a boxy, swingier fit so if you're in between sizes, maybe go for the smaller of the two." -Tuckernuck reviewer
  • Material: cotton
  • Size range: XS–L

Cutest Short White Formal Dress

14. SweatyRocks Halter Dress

SweatyRocks

Need to wear something formal but also don’t want to melt away in the blistering heat? Totally understand, which is why this lightweight SweatyRocks Halter Dress needs a spot in your closet (or vacation carry-on). With its adjustable halter neckline and pleated skirt, it's a breezy break from the ordinary summer dress.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: “This dress is worth the money, very light and classy. I got a lot of compliments when I wore it. I really like it.” —Maria Fletes
  • Material: polyester
  • Size range: XS–XL

Sleekest Short White Wedding Guest Dress

15. Lulus Dinah One-Shoulder Dress

Lulus

Crafted with medium-weight woven fabric, a stylish darted bodice and a mini sheath skirt, this one-shoulder wedding guest dress is ideal for wearing as a guest to an all-white wedding (yes, those are a thing). It's also a great pick for the future Mrs. for her bridal shower or brunch before the big day.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: “I am in love with this dress! Looking for an occasion to wear it again! It is so cute and comfortable and fits perfectly! Would buy again 10000 times!” —Margaret L.
  • Material: polyester, cotton and spandex
  • Size range: XXS–XL

Best Preppy Short White Dress

16. Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Polo Dress

Ralph Lauren

Tenniscore is having a serious moment right now, and this simple polo dress is an easy way to get in on the action. It features the iconic Ralph Lauren Polo logo and is made of breathable cotton for the summer. You'll look just as good on the court as you will sipping Sauvignon Blanc at the country club. Plus, it's giving some serious Challengers energy.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: "Many compliments. Very casual but preppy/clean. Would be adorable with white tennis shoes or low heel sandals." - Jill H.
  • Material: cotton
  • Size range: XXS–XL

Best Simple Short White Dress

17. Aerie Flirty Shoulder Summer Mini Dress

Aerie

Cute tiers, ruffle straps and a breezy feel make this sundress extra versatile for the summer. Pair it with a pair of cowboy boots for a country concert or strappy sandals for a day-to-day look. The smocked bodice is extra flattering, yet it's comfy too. You'll want to wear to every cookout or as a cover-up on beach days, trust.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: "This was the first thing on Aerie that caught my eye. It is so cute and the perfect length." - Mandi
  • Material: Cotton and viscose
  • Size range: XXS–XXL

Best Linen Flowy Short White Dress

18. Maeve The Bettina Tiered Mini Shirt Dress

Maeve

Breathable lined fabric coupled with flattering tiers and cute cutouts makes this long sleeved dress a win in my book. It has a fun oversized fit without compromising on structure that makes this frock totally comfortable for a day of travel (hello, Italy). Pair it with a woven bag and you're good to go!

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: "This dress is everything! Yes, it's a bit roomy, but I think it's designed to be that way. It's flowy, feminine, and comfy. The linen is supersoft." - Dollystar
  • Material: Linen and viscose
  • Size range: XXS–XL

Best Tiered Short White Dress

19. Aritzia Martine Poplin Dress

Aritzia

Here's further proof a short dress can be totally comfortable. This tiered dress feels lightweight and airy, thanks to the cotton poplin material, and it features a fitted-but-still-breathable elastic waistband. Plus, the straps are completely adjustable so you can get that perfect fit. You can also get it in a midi length or short sleeve option if you want a little variety.

Fast Facts

  • Promising review: "Prettiest dress ever, the material is so light, perfect for summer but not see-through at all." - Alexane
  • Material: Cotton
  • Size range: XXS–XXL

Best Knit White Short Dress

20. Reformation Mayve Knit Dress

Reformation

Fitted at the bodice with an A-line skirt, this cute number is perfectly posh. A high neckline is a perfect spot to show off some statement jewelry or keep things sleek and minimalist. The fabric is slightly stretchy, too, so you won't feel too constricted whether you're on date night or checking out a gallery.

Fast Facts

  • Material: Cotton and spandex
  • Size range: XS–XL

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Can You Buy Short White Dresses?

Some of our favorite places to shop for short dresses are Amazon, Revolve, Shopbop, Abercrombie, Zara and Lulus. They tend to have the best variety, most thorough reviews and quickest delivery.

How Do You Style Short White Dresses?

Since white is so versatile, styling an LWD has more to do with its length and silhouette than its color. For casual outings, wear a pair of trendy sneakers, ankle booties or strappy sandals, plus a cardigan or leather jacket. Going for something a little more cocktail hour-appropriate? Layer a sleeveless frock over a collared shirt (or a detachable collar), throw on some stylish heels and grab your favorite purse. To accessorize a white dress, keep the occasion in mind. 

“For a summer beach day, you may want to accessorize with bright colors to accent the white dress. Maybe for a date night or a more professional setting, you can do neutral accessories to keep it simple,” says Sherry Shahriari, owner of the fashion and lifestyle blog RB Italia. “If you’ve decided to go the natural colors, then nudes, browns, and beiges are your best friend. This could mean nude heels, brown-toned sunglasses or a tan hat. If you’ve decided to go the colorful route, then you could choose red heels and handbags. Or simply choose fun and bright color headscarf, or colorful framed sunglasses!”


Brittany Gibson headshot

Freelance Writer

Brittany Gibson is a NYC- and CT-based freelance writer with a background in SEO. She has bylines in BuzzFeed, Insider, Real Simple, Reader’s Digest and more. When she’s not writing about products, you’ll likely find her trying out new coffee shops, hanging with her Maltipoo, Mochi, listening to Taylor Swift or scouring the internet for new petite fashion finds to fill her already-crowded closet with. Follow her on Instagram @brigibson. She has been writing for PureWow for half a year.

Courtney Campbell

Freelance Writer

Courtney covers all things shopping and lifestyle at PureWow. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Elon University and has spent more than five years of her career writing and editing shopping content. She has also tested everything from kombucha kits to standing desks for product reviews. With a passion for service journalism, she loves covering food, lifestyle and home content. You can follow her on Instagram or see more of her experience on LinkedIn.

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