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These 29 Stylish Sundresses Will Crank Up the Heat on Your Summer Wardrobe

Easy, breezy summer must-haves

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Best Sundresses 2024: Collage of four flowy sundresses
Dasha Burobina for PureWow

There’s nothing like an easy, breezy sundress to make you feel instantly put-together without a ton of effort. Whether you’re hitting the farmers' market or sipping brunch cocktails al fresco, a sundress (or three) is a closet must, perfect for throwing on in a flash. Summer wardrobe in need of a few of these staples? To help you find the dress(es) of your dreams, I've rounded up several options and dropped a few styling tips along the way. I'm talking billowing maxis and trendy printed minis—all of which will secure your spot on the best dressed list at any backyard barbecue or party.

The 10 Best Sundresses at a Glance

1

Best Formal Sundress

JCrew Linen Squareneck Midi Dress

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2

Best Floral Sundress

Zesica Summer Boho Floral Dress

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3

Best Maxi Sundress

Anthropologie Somerset Maxi Dress

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4

Best Vacation Sundress

Zara Printed Midi Dress

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5

Best Smocked Sundress

Quince Smocked Midi Dress

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How I Chose the Best Sundresses

I chose the best sundresses by consulting my own closet, tapping fellow PureWow editors for their picks, as well as sifting through stylish, high-quality options from popular retailers. I picked pieces in a variety of lengths, including maxi, midi and mini, and made sure to include petite and plus-sized options, as well as silhouettes suited for taller gals. 

I was also sure to feature favorites at a range of price points and included a mix of trendy, preppy, boho and minimalist options to suit every style. Material was also taken into consideration, with a focus on breathable cotton or linen, as well as inexpensive polyester and rayon dresses. Below, you’ll find my top 29 picks for the best sundresses of summer 2024.

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Best Formal Sundress

1. J.Crew Linen Squareneck Midi Dress

What I Like

  • fitted, flattering bodice
  • has back smocking
  • comes in multiple colors

What I Don't Like

  • can be small up top

J.Crew

This square-neck midi would be a cute little number for a garden party or outdoor wedding. It’s made from light, breathable linen, and comes in three solid colors, which can all be dressed up or down with accessories. With a fitted bodice and A-line skirt, it’s a dress that cuts a classic, sophisticated figure fit for the more formal summer events on your agenda.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 00 to 24
  • Material: linen

Best Floral Sundress

2. Zesica Summer Boho Floral Dress

What I Like

  • adjustable tie straps
  • 15 patterns
  • maternity-friendly

What I Don't Like

  • can run large

ZESICA

The best dress is one you can just throw on and feel like your outfit is complete, and this breezy mini is it. It’s available in over a dozen different prints (including a ton of florals) and features a flattering smocked bodice with adjustable self-tie straps for your best fit. Reviewers say the rayon fabric is super soft and lightweight, so it’s perfect for those hot summer days. (Psst: One pregnant reviewer even raves about how bump-friendly it is. Score!)

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: S to XL
  • Material: rayon

Best Maxi Sundress

3. Anthropologie Somerset Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • petite and tall sizes
  • multiple patterns
  • flattering smocked waist

What I Don't Like

  • pricey

Anthropologie

Available in a slew of bold patterns and minimalist hues, this staple style from Anthropologie is made to meet all of your summer dressing needs. Short sleeves and a subtle V neckline help you stay cool, yet covered, while the long tiered skirt adds dramatic dimension. Best of all, though, is its smocked waist, which simultaneously cinches in the silhouette while providing comfortable stretch. The Somerset maxi is so good, in fact, that it's earned a PureWow Readers' Favorite Award for being the most popular dress of the year. As a bonus, it also comes in standard, petite *and* tall sizes.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL
  • Material: cotton

Best Vacation Sundress

4. Zara Printed Midi Dress

What I Like

  • bold pattern
  • flowy
  • tie top

What I Don't Like

  • minimal sizes

Zara

Make room in your suitcase—the tropical floral pattern on this bold, vacay-ready dress will have you turning heads all summer long. It’s easy to throw on to feel instantly dressed up, and there's a thick tie back and hidden zip closure t0 help make it feel secure and comfortable. I also love the pleating at the waist that adds some dimension to the A-line shape. Basically, it's made for sunset beach walks or resort dinners on your next getaway (though I totally approve of bringing the island vibes to just about any summer event).

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: cotton

Best Smocked Sundress

5. Quince Smocked Midi Dress

What I Like

  • ethically sourced material
  • easy to throw on
  • bold colors

What I Don't Like

  • bodice may need to be pulled down

Quince

From a tea party to a quick trip to the grocery store, you’ll be ready for anything in this casual-yet-adorable sundress from Quince. It’s made of ethically-sourced organic cotton (so staying cool is a given) and features cute ruffle detailing on the sleeves and hem, as well as a smocked bodice for all-day comfort.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: cotton

Best Mini Sundress

6. Reformation Linen Sheri Dress

What I Like

  • corset bodice
  • 100 percent linen
  • multiple colors

What I Don't Like

  • expensive

Reformation

This flirty, flouncy mini exudes summer vibes, making it an immediate add-to-cart item in my eyes. It features a square neckline with delicate lace detailing, as well as a corset-inspired bodice that totally nods to the Regencycore trend. The frock should feel nice and breathable thanks to the 100 percent linen material, while the blue toile pattern depicting fruits and flowers was practically made for a European getaway (though it's also available in three other colors and prints).

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 12
  • Material: linen

Best Puff-Sleeve Sundress

7. Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Dress

What I Like

  • puffed sleeves
  • unique texture

What I Don't Like

  • bust may be snug for larger chests

Abercrombie & Fitch

I love a puff sleeve for its ultra feminine, princess-esque look. If you do, too, you’ll adore this linen-blend midi from Abercrombie & Fitch. It boasts a super flattering ruched bodice, along with a smocked back for stretch, while the subtle tiering of the skirt adds its overall regal silhouette. And not only does it have pockets (!!), it also comes in petite and tall sizes, so you’re bound to find the perfect length. BTW, Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida recently reviewed the poplin version of this style, and said that it makes her feel like she stepped straight out of Bridgerton.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL
  • Material: cotton, linen

Best Linen Sundress

8. Quince Linen Scoop Neck Midi Dress

What I Like

  • fitted bodice
  • has pockets
  • adjustable straps

What I Don't Like

  • material doesn't have much give

Quince

Linen dresses are a must for summer thanks to their lightweight and breathable feel that won't leave you sweating, and I think this adorable midi from Quince is the ultimate pick. It's crafted from 100 percent European flax linen, which the brand describes as "an eco-friendly fiber made from premium flax fiber [that's] sustainably grown," so you can feel good about more than just its shockingly good price tag. It has a scoop neck and chic, retro silhouette, along with pockets placed perfectly on either side. I love the picnic-ready gingham print, but the dress also comes in seven other neutral and patterned versions.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: linen

Best Cotton Sundress

9. Hill House Home Ophelia Mini Dress

What I Like

  • satin finish
  • adjustable neckline
  • has pockets

What I Don't Like

  • pricey

Hill House Home

Hill House Home may be known for its iconic Nap Dresses, but this darling mini is a worthy contender for a place in your rotation. It’s constructed of 100 percent cotton, but feels a bit more dressed up than your average sundress thanks to its smooth sateen construction. Elastic puff sleeves and an adjustable tie neckline keep it comfy, while the corset-inspired midriff adds a romantic element. It gets bonus points for its cute, summery patterns, and, of course, the fact that it has pockets.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL
  • Material: cotton

Best Cutout Sundress

10. Lulus Perfect Day for Love Cutout Dress

What I Like

  • flattering cutouts
  • flouncy skirt 

What I Don't Like

  • hand-wash only

Lulus

This flirty frock is totally date-worthy thanks to the hot pink color and fun cutouts on the side that don't reveal too much. The low V-neck is knotted at the bottom to add visual interest alongside fun flutter sleeves. As one reviewer says, "the fabric is really high quality, the fit was great and it worked really well even though I have a pretty flat chest...The cutouts on the sides were very subtle, and flattering to the waist." With three other color options to choose from, you'll want to give this style a twirl for yourself.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: viscose, linen

Best Preppy Sundress

11. Pomander Place Kenzo Dress

What I Like

  • great for petites
  • good range of sizes
  • flattering fit

What I Don't Like

  • may be too short for taller gals

Tuckernuck

Country club chic is trending in a big way this summer and this cotton poplin number nails the aesthetic, from its coastal-inspired stripes to its not-so-deep V-neckline that's reminiscent of a preppy polo shirt. Beyond that, it boasts a looser empire waist that should feel flattering on a range of body types, while the tiered skirt offers twirlable movement. Paired with the right accessories, this mini can take you from days at the club to nights on the town.

Fact Fasts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXXL
  • Material: cotton

Best Loose-Fitting Sundress

12. Jenni Kayne Cove Dress

What I Like

  • high-quality feel
  • cool, relaxed fit 

What I Don't Like

  • expensive

Jenni Kayne

"No zippers, no buttons, just toss it on over your head without hassle," raves Commerce Editor Olivia Dubyak in her review of this Jenni Kayne stunner. "It has adjustable straps and the pockets are obviously a game changer," she adds. Between the high-quality cotton and loose-fitting cut, it's also guaranteed to keep you feeling cool, even on the most sweltering summer days. It comes in a few neutral color options, as well as different striped options that would look fabulous dressed up or down. Whether you're heading out for a beach date or a wedding, this billowy number is sure to fit the bill.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XXL
  • Material: cotton

Best Tie-Waist Sundress

13. Abercrombie & Fitch Tie Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • gorgeous pattern
  • tie waist cinches shape
  • tall and petite sizes

What I Don't Like

  • bust may run small for larger chests

Abercrombie & Fitch

With a long tiered skirt and vibrant floral pattern, this 100 percent cotton sundress is ready for a walk in the lavender fields or a stroll through a quaint European town. It has more of a relaxed look thanks to its looser button-down top, but I love that it has a functional tie at the waist to cinch it all together for the best fit, whether you get it in the petite, classic or tall length.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL
  • Material: cotton

Best Casual Sundress

14. Cupshe Ruffled Dress

What I Like

  • affordable
  • has pretty ruffle details
  • lightweight fabric

What I Don't Like

  • bust may be small for larger chests

Cupshe

If you're in the market for the perfect casual sundress you can slip into on any hot day, look no further. Buyers describe this mini as comfortable, lightweight and flattering, which sounds to me like it checks all the boxes. It offers a tiered ruffled design and self-tie V-neck, with even more ruffle detailing on the high collar for extra oomph. The elastic waistband also provides some give. Just note that some reviewers say it's tighter in the bust, so you might want to size up if you're more filled out up top.

Fat Facts

  • Size Range: S to XL
  • Material: polyester, cotton

Best One-Shoulder Sundress

15. Merokeety One-Shoulder Sundress

What I Like

  • available in multiple colors
  • one shoulder design
  • ventilating slit in skirt

What I Don't Like

  • can wrinkle

Amazon

The bow-tied one-shoulder design makes this classic sundress a little more fun and flirty. Coupled with a slit down the tiered skirt and a textured, smocked bodice, and you have the perfect dress for a date night al fresco. Available in 12 different hues, this frock will quickly become your ultimate throw-on pick for dressier events this season.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: S to XL
  • Material: rayon

Best Plus-Size Sundress

16. Eloquii Ruffled Tiered Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • available in extended sizing
  • affordable
  • tie detailing

What I Don't Like

  • may run large

Eloquii

From its romantic sweetheart neckline to its flattering elastic bodice, this tiered frock was made for anybody and every *body.* It comes in a full range of plus sizes, up to 32, and despite having a V-neck cut, still provides coverage for larger busts. As one reviewer raves, "This dress is perfect for spring/summer. Very flowy and showcases the chest beautifully. I can also wear this on or off the shoulder. Love!" It's available in black, red and yellow to really capture the warm tones of the season.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 14 to 32
  • Material: rayon, nylon

Best Cottagecore Sundress

17. Reformation Balia Linen Dress

What I Like

  • fitted bodice
  • flirty look
  • maxi length

What I Don't Like

  • non-adjustable straps

Reformation

If you live for the pastoral vibes come summer, turn to this cottagecore-esque number. Designed to be more fitted at the bodice for a faux corset look, this Reformation sundress hugs your top and flows into a billowy skirt. It has pretty details ideal for summer outings, with a center front tie, scoop neckline and thick straps that should feel comfy on your shoulders.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 12
  • Material: linen

Best Eyelet Sundress

18. Gap × DÔEN Eyelet Midi Dress

What I Like

  • eyelet details
  • long length
  • breathable design

What I Don't Like

  • only one color

Gap

This eyelet midi dress, a collab between Gap and DÔEN, is the perfect outfit for a picnic, barbecue or, considering its subtle cowgirl vibe, a bachelorette party trip to Nashville. In addition to a cute bow accent and airy eyelet detailing throughout, the tiered skirt adds a romantic touch while a scrunched bodice makes it a little more comfortable. I can see it paired with some cute cowboy booties or a jean jacket to complete the yee-haw aesthetic.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL
  • Material: cotton

Best Boho Sundress

19. Cupshe High-Low Lace Hem Dress

What I Like

  • lots of boho accents
  • lace details at the hem
  • affordable

What I Don't Like

  • fabric is a bit see-through

Cupshe

A high-low skirt and lace details give this number beachy boho energy in the best way. The V-neckline feels sweeter draped with tassel accents, while the smocked waistband, topped with a long tie, effortlessly creates a cinched silhouette. This dress is constructed of delicate rayon, which should make it nice and breathable, but buyers do note that it's a bit see-through, so you might want to rock this baby on a long beach walk or tropical photoshoot with your swimsuit underneath.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: S to XL
  • Material: rayon

Best Sundress for Petites

20. Show Me Your Mumu Angel Mini Dress

What I Like

  • tie straps
  • retro stripes

What I Don't Like

  • can be short on some

Show me Your Mumu

If you're on the smaller side, it's easy to get lost in the fabric of longer sundresses. This mini dress is an ideal length for shorter ladies with a striped pattern that's reminiscent of a retro beach changing tent. The self-tie shoulder straps and elastic neckline with ruffle trim adds some nice detail up top, but the best part? There’s pockets.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: cotton, rayon

Best Button-Up Sundress

21. Callahan Mira Dress

What I Like

  • button-up style
  • lined for coverage

What I Don't Like

  • may run slightly large

Callahan

Whether you're heading on a holiday or having an impromptu picnic in the park, this body-skimming dress will have you feeling breezy and ready for the day. I love that it has a button-up front that can be easily adjusted to show as much (or as little) leg in conjunction with its two side slits, as well as the fact that it's partially lined, so it shouldn't be see-through where you don't want it to be.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: polyester

Most Versatile Sundress

22. PrettyGarden Smocked Tiered Dress

What I Like

  • multiple colors
  • affordable

What I Don't Like

  • thinner material can be see-through

PrettyGarden

Everyone needs that one simple maxi dress that they can just toss on for whatever the day brings. Available in a ton of solid colors, this perfectly versatile pick has spaghetti straps, a stretchy bodice and a tiered skirt for a bit of a bohemian look. It’s great for a day at the pool or just to run some errands, but you can easily dress it up for any fancier affairs.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: S to XL
  • Material: polyester

Best Strapless Sundress

23. Nobody's Child Felicity Bandeau Dress

What I Like

  • bandeau-style top
  • cotton material
  • good length for all heights

What We Don't Like

  • only one colorway

Nobody's Child

A cross between a midi and a maxi (a midaxi, if you will), this sundress is the perfect length. It has a sweet yellow floral pattern and should feel cool thanks to the 100 percent cotton construction. But what really steals the show is the ruched bandeau-style top that keeps everything in place without the need for straps. We can see this frock (and you in it!) being the life of the tea party.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 2 to 12
  • Material: cotton

Best Embroidered Sundress

24. Free People Wildflower Embroidered Mini Dress

What I Like

  • embroidered details
  • multiple colors
  • breathable fabric

What I Don't Like

  • can be short on some

Free People

The sweet embroidered florals on this frock give it a hippie-dippie aesthetic that throws it back to the nature-lovin' 1960s. The scoop-neckline and ruched sleeves should keep it comfy, and, in addition to it's short, swingy silhouette, its cotton, viscose and linen fabric should make it incredibly breathable. Whether you’re frolicking in a prairie or, well, simply going to brunch, this floral-accented piece is a stylish choice.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: cotton, viscose, linen

Best Minimalist Sundress

25. Splendid Sunny Mini Dress

What I Like

  • loose-fitting
  • adjustable straps

What I Don't Like

  • too simple for some

Splendid

With "sunny" in the name, I can't help but include this slip-style number in my list of best sundresses. This minimalist frock may look perfectly simple, but that's the beauty of it. The linen/rayon blend makes it airy and light, and the adjustable spaghetti straps mean you can achieve the perfect fit. Plus it’s not too short, making it the ideal option for a slightly windy beach walk or lunchtime date.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: linen, rayon

Best Budget Sundress

26. Old Navy Fit & Flare Cami Mini Dress

What I Like

  • has pockets
  • available in multiple colorways and patterns
  • adjustable straps

What I Don't Like

  • waist may be too short for longer torso

Old Navy

Marked down starting as low as $11 (!!), this budget-friendly frock really stands out because of its flattering fit-and-flare shape and its multiple pattern and color options. That means you can snag a bunch without breaking the bank. It also includes adjustable straps, smocking at the back and those all-important side-seam pockets. FYI: The style is also available in petite *and* tall sizes.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to 4X
  • Material: linen, rayon

Best Halter Sundress

27. Cleobella Zola Dress

What I Like

  • halter top
  • beautiful bold print
  • ethically made

What I Don't Like

  • expensive

Cleobella

Completely handmade by local artisans in India, this patterned dress is truly one of a kind. In addition to the bold print, it features a cool halter neck with an O-ring accent, but the thick straps separate and lay flat at the back, so you don't have to worry about tying them. Plus, it has a shirred bust for eye-catching texture. It’s an ethical and sustainable choice you’ll be wearing for years to come, so IMO, it's totally worth the investment.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: cotton

Best Nautical Sundress

28. Sail to Sable Navy Smocked Flutter Strap Dress

What I Like

  • features cute squiggly stripes
  • lined for coverage

What I Don't Like

  • hang to dry

Sail to Sable

You don’t need to be on a sailboat to embrace the nautical aesthetic, but this blue-and-white mini with ric-rac trim will surely have you craving a day out on the New England coast. The fitted smocked bodice and flared skirt create an ultra-flattering silhouette, while the ruffled flutter straps add a touch of flirty fun. Bring on the lobster rolls!

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XXL
  • Material: linen, viscose

Best Athletic Sundress

29. Outdoor Voices The Exercise Dress

What I Like

  • sweat wicking
  • built-in shorts

What I Don't Like

  • straps too thin for some

Outdoor Voices

Not looking to overheat during your next workout? This stretchy, sweat-wicking dress has got your back. The OG Exercise Dress comes with built-in shorts, so you can do your thing without worrying about a wardrobe malfunction. It has an eye-catching racer back with adjustable straps and comes in quite a few colors that can take you from the tennis court to the farmers' market.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to 3X
  • Material: nylon, spandex

Frequently Asked Questions

What to Wear Over a Sundress in 2024

While a sundress can hold a presence on its own, they’re also great for layering—especially when it gets colder near the beach or after sunset. TikTok user @taylorrizzolino shows us that you can pair a simple dress with a floral shirt for a tropical vibe, a blazer for a more polished look or drape a sweater over your shoulders for a cozy, preppy moment.

When in doubt, it’s always good to revert to the millennial standard of a jean jacket or cardigan to keep you warm, or cover up your arms if you’re uncomfortable showing too much skin.

Where to Buy Cute Sundresses

Choosing where to buy a sundress depends on your personal style and preference. You could shop at big box retailers like Amazon and Target for fast delivery, or ship directly from a specific brand like Anthropologie, Jenni Kayne, J.Crew or Reformation.


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...

purewow author

Commerce Editor

Anna Smutny covered a range of beats, from fashion and beauty verticals to home decor (and everything else in between) for PureWow from 2021-2022. With a background in wedding and...

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