The 10 Best J.Crew Summer Work Dresses (Including Finds Up to 53% Off)

We all know the button-down is a classic office look, and this shirtdress makes the ensemble a bit more feminine and fun. The tie-waist creates a cinched silhouette, and the long length of both the sleeves and skirt make it appropriate for a variety of corporate dress codes. The side slits make it a little more breezy—and all-around moveable—plus, the 100 percent cotton poplin material will last you for years to come.

The perfect combo of preppy and polish, this tweed dress was made for layering with a blazer or cropped jacket and nailing that big pitch meeting. Chunky, fabric-covered buttons line the front and the pockets of the frock, and it has a sweet square neckline. Though it’s made of wool, it still feels comfortable (read: not itchy) thanks to the polyester lining, and right now, it's more than 50 percent off. (Just note that it is dry clean only.)

If you are desperately trying to balance the delicate choice between something (casual) office appropriate and cute enough for post-work patio drinks, this little number might be the solution. Falling above the knee, this A-line shift dress accomplishes both with a looser, fun fit and a high scooped neckline. Just remember to throw on a cozy office cardi to both cover up a bit and keep you warm when the A/C is blasting.

Bringing J.Crew’s iconic chino trouser style into a dress form, this is an office look that will have people asking, “where did you get that?” A high-collared neckline, thicker straps and above-the-knee length make it dress code-approved.Though it has an edgy structure to it—which is underscored by the removable-tie waist—the linen/TENCEL blend makes it feel soft and breathable throughout the workday.

This dress was made to nail that final interview. I mean, it’s called the Resume Dress for a reason. The classic sheath silhouette is elevated with flattering cap sleeves, meaning it only requires a few subtle jewelry pieces to finish it off. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but it’s constructed from refined stretch wool made in Lanificio di Tollegno, one of Italy's oldest mills. And there’s pockets!

The long, breezy length of this shift dress makes it just as appropriate for a throw-on-and-go vacation look as it is as a perfect-for-layering, casual look for the office. It has adorable ruffle details along the neckline and straps, and it offers a stretchy fit that makes it comfortable if you’re sitting at meetings all day long.

Linen is the ideal fabric for a summer work dress. It’s both breathable and comfortable, so you won’t arrive at the office sweating after a particularly hot commute. This shirt dress helps keep you covered with elbow-length sleeves while accentuating the waist with a tie in the middle. It also comes in tall and petite sizing, so you can get that ideal right-above-the-knee length no matter your height. Plus, it comes in five colors, making it more than tempting to buy in bulk.

Made of regenagri-certified cotton, an agricultural program that encourages sustainable and ethical harvesting, this dress is both a durable and eco-friendly option. The classic shirtdress has the added bonus of smocked waist that can be tightened with a simple elastic tie. It buttons only halfway and falls a bit below the knee to make you feel comfortable and professional throughout the day.

Long, flowy and fabulous, a maxi dress is the perfect work dress, and the shirtdress style of this one adds a hint of professionalism. Buttons all the way down, slight ruffled sleeves and a tie belt pulls it all together without any additional accessories needed. Its 100 percent cotton material and slip lining will keep you cool and collected—even when you're putting out fires all day (argh, office drama).

Longer sleeves in the summer might be necessary if you don’t want to deal with any additional layers in an office setting. This option feels relaxed yet professional, thanks to the front zipper and collar neck, with some elastic scrunching at the ends of the sleeves and waist for some extra flare. It earns bonus points for being machine washable and having pockets. It's the little things, right?