Ah the sundress, a true wardrobe staple if ever there was one. They’re by far the easiest options to toss on and still look put together, and they truly never go out of style. That said, there are some sundress outfits that look a bit more dated than others. Here, seven chic and simple ways to style a sundress for summer 2022, plus one look that’s best swapped out of the old rotation.
7 Ways to Wear a Sundress in 2022 (Plus One to Retire for Now)
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Published Jun 6, 2022
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1. wear A Flowy Silhouette With Clean, White Kicks
Retro sneakers have usurped chunky dad shoes as 2022’s must-have style, and they look particularly great paired with floaty sundresses. Thicker, exaggerated soles look a little dated and far too boxy, but slimmer designs help balance out a voluminous dress. Stick with minimalist, white designs to really give your frock room to shine.
Shop similar styles: Anthropologie Linen Somerset Dress ($); Steve Madden Bnikki Bag ($54); Cariuma LWG Leather Sneakers ($98)
2. balance A Mini With Sporty Sandals
Tone down the sex appeal of shorter hems with the help of some chunky, colorful sandals like Tevas or Freedom Moses slides. Even better if you can match your vibrant shoes with one of the colors in your dress like Coterie member Monroe Steele’s yellow sandals and printed shirtdress.
Shop similar styles: Farm Rio Pitanga Dress ($295); UGG Goldenstar Sandals ($120)
Give your floral midi a western twist with a pair of easy ankle-height cowboy boots like Coterie member Caroline Juen. The key is to choose a pair that doesn’t feel quite as heavy as a traditional cowboy boot, either by way of a slimmer heel, thinner material or other summery touch. They also work best with midi lengths, which show just a bit of shin between the top of your boot and your hem, to balance out a sturdy shoe without feeling overwhelming.
Shop similar styles: Misa Los Angeles Rebecca Dress ($370); Ariat Darlin Boots ($155)
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4. try A Summer Knit With Minimalist Extras
Yes, you can wear a sweater in summer and not overheat. Just opt for a lightweight knit in a semi-fitted, sleeveless silhouette with a hem that hits somewhere between mid thigh and just below the knee. Pair your comfy cozy dress with simple, neutral-hued sandals and a matching mini bag and stick with just one or two basic jewelry pieces.
Shop similar styles: Hill House Home Leah Dress ($195); ASOS ‘90s Nylon Shoulder Bag ($24; $16); Steve Madden Claudette Sandals ($80; $60)
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5. wear A Billowing Maxi With Practical Sandals
Balance the nap-dress vibes of a tent silhouette by pairing with some chunky Birkenstock-inspired sandals. P.S. Breathable fabrics like linen and hemp will keep you cool even at maxi lengths.
Shop similar styles: River Island Puff-Sleeve Maxi Dress ($75); Dr. Martens Voss Quad Leather Sandals ($110)
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6. go All In On Trends
For the adventurous fashionista, combine two of summer’s best trends, a flared tent dress and platform heels, for a runway-inspired look. The key to making this work is to choose simple accessories and a sleek hairdo, and make sure your hemline isn’t too short so there’s no risk of accidentally flashing anyone when you go to sit down at brunch.
Shop similar styles: Tuckernuck Callahan Shirt Dress ($178); JW Pei Gabbi Super Mini Bag ($49); ASOS Pluto Platform Heels ($68)
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7. when In Doubt, Go Back To The Basics
You can never go wrong with a floral midi and some flat ankle-strap sandals. Of course, adding a pair of classic black sunnies to the mix never hurts either.
Shop similar styles: Mott50 Sophie Maxi Dress ($248; $199); Nine West Waren 3 Lace-Up Sandals ($79)
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8. don’t: Pair Babydoll Minis With Sporty Sneakers
This combination was a hot pairing a few years back, but now it just looks dated and out of place. Wear those gym-ready kicks with a tennis skort or exercise dress, and try a pair of flat sandals with your minidresses instead for a more modern take on each.
