Costing a fraction of the price of the SKIMS version this dress is ultra flattering because it “snatches” your body in “all the right places”.
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Summer is about relaxation but on humid, sweaty days it can feel anything but laid-back. That’s where summer dresses come in — the easiest option for hot days, the perfect shift or wrap dress will become your go-to wardrobe staple.
Dresses are one of the most versatile items in our wardrobe as they can be easily dressed up or down for the beach, office or nights out. They’re also great pieces to layer with knitwear during that spring-summer transition period.
Here’s our roundup of the best casual, work and party dresses you can buy for summer, all from the comfort of your home.
•Best casual summer dresses
•Best party summer dresses
•Best work summer dresses
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AnotherChill Women’s Casual Lounge Slip Long Dress, from $24 at Amazon
If you’ve been on social media at all in the past few years, you would’ve seen the viral SKIMS dress. But at $144, the price is a bit much for some of us. But thankfully, due to the power of TikTok, we’ve managed to find a perfect dupe for a very reasonable price. TikToker @trendycurvy tried the dupe, admitting she was dubious before trying it.
Her tune quickly changed once she had the dress on though. “I stand corrected,” she said. It’s “very comfortable” and “snatching me in all the right places.”
The dress also has over 1800 five-star reviews on Amazon. “The dress is such a soft buttery material, it is stretchy but fits like a glove. The dress reaches the ground and is so nice and flowy at the bottom while it snatches you up where it needs to be,” wrote one happy customer. Another said: “The material is soft and stretchy and is a near perfect dupe.”
Lily Loves Knit Cutout Midi Dress, $60 at Target
This stunning pink dress has gone viral on social media and it’s not hard to see why. The perfect day to night dress, it’s crafted from a knit design with all over stretch fabrication for extra comfort too.
Stylist and model @livrah recently wore the dress on TikTok and was met with dozens of compliments about the fit. “Omg, you look amazing,” wrote one commenter, while another said: “So pretty, that colour was made for you.”
Petal & Pup Franklin Dress – Mocha, $89 at Petal & Pup
This breezy style is a bestseller at Petal & Pup. With a flattering neckline and shirred cuff sleeves, it has a front thigh split for added comfort during the warmer months.
The Franklin dress frequently sells out and has an average 4.6 star rating from over 220 reviews. Shoppers praise the “super cute” style, with one saying they got “so many compliments” when they wore it out.
“This dress is super flattering and fits in all the right places and can be dressed up or down easily. A new staple for my wardrobe!” one five star review says.
“It’s a great comfortable dress for summer with a very flattering fit. I absolutely can dress it up with a heel or dress down with shoes,” another wrote.
Reiss Women’s Ida Floral Strappy Dress – Pink, $199 (down from $555) at OzSale
Nothing says summer like a floral print and this heavily reduced dress from Reiss (aka the brand loved by Kate Middleton) has got our tick of approval.
With delicate ruffle and pleated detailing, this dress is easily dressed up or down with heels, plus you can throw a blazer on top if you’re after something more smart for the office.
Atmos&Here Curvy Stefania Linen Blend Midi Dress, $74.99 (down from $99.99) at THE ICONIC
This gorgeous midi dress from Atmos&Here is another floral print that caught our eye. The linen blend dress has a lovely skirt with a ruffle hem and a classic square neckline, making it a wardrobe staple that you’ll have for years to come.
Witchery Yarn Dye Scoop Neck Dress in Beige, $99.95 (down from $199.95) at Myer
The perfect level of elevated casualwear, this sweet ivory dress can be worn on your average hot summer’s day but also out to drinks too. Crafted from a linen lyocell blend with elasticated trims through the shoulder and neckline and a shirred waistline, it is a super flattering cut.
Review Sunset Pleated Midi Dress in Pink, $279.95 at THE ICONIC
Summer is the perfect time to bring out the bright colours and this magenta party dress is an absolute showstopper. Made from 100 per cent breathable polyester this dress has a gorgeous pleated skirt and a gathered bodice that’s flattering on everyone.
The midi length and empire waistline make it ideal for long formal events like weddings where you want to be as comfortable as possible.
Aere Panelled Organic Silk Midi Dress, $217.50 (down from $290) at THE ICONIC
Nothing says summer more than a floral dress and we’re obsessed with this Aere dress worn by THE ICONIC ambassador Laura Byrne. The Bachelor star turned podcaster shared photos of her wearing the dress on Instagram, saying it was “like a silky nightie that you can wear out of the house”.
Laura’s followers praised the “dreamy” outfit, saying she looked “a vision” and they “love the dress”.
Look, we’re on board with anything that’s as comfy as pyjamas but you can wear outside of the home, but this dress has many more features that make it a real winner.
Made from 100 per cent organic silk it has a flattering pleated bodice with a sweetheart neckline.
Reiss Women’s Marca-Satin Occasion Midi Dress – Blush, $229 (down from $366) at OZSALE
Reiss’ clothes are on trend while still managing to look timeless — they literally make clothes fit for a princess that are also affordable enough for us mere mortals to buy.
Better yet, OZSALE have a range of the royalty-approved brand’s dresses available at a discounted price.
Our pick is this blush satin midi dress thanks to its tie-back high neckline and stylish draping. It also has a concealed zip and button fastening meaning you’ll look picture perfect whatever the occasion.
Pretty Lavish Curve ruched bandeau midaxi dress in ditsy brown floral, $113.50 (down from $151) at ASOS
This strapless floral number can be easily dressed up or down depending on your shoes, plus it makes a great transeasonal piece as you can easily pair with a cardigan for a stylish spring look.
It also has ruched detailing along the sides and back, as well as a kick split.
Seed Heritage Textured One Shoulder Maxi Dress, $139.95 (down from $189.95) at Seed Heritage
One-shouldered dresses are instantly chic, with this dress from Seed Heritage no exception. Available in a striking kelly green with a stylish puff sleeve, the textured maxi dress has a tiered skirt and is made from a stretchy cotton blend for the ultimate summer comfort.
The Academy Brand Tayla Poplin Shirt Dress, $77.97 (down from $129.95) at The Dom
There’s nothing more perfect for casual summer days than a shirt dress. Made from 100 per cent cotton poplin this dress is perfect for throwing on over your swimsuit, or you can add a belt to make it more dressy. We love it for its details which include authentic mother of pearl buttons, a scoop hem and a pointed collar.
Seven Wonders Bettina Maxi Dress – White, $149 at Runaway The Label
You really can’t go past a maxi when it comes to summer dressing and a strapless one is a great option as it can easily be dressed up or down.
This maxi from Runaway The Label has hidden gel tape along the bust line meaning it won’t fall down or slip — especially handy on sweaty summer days.
Add heels and statement gold jewellery for a dressy look or simply throw on over your bikinis to head to the beach.
Gabrielle Dress In Martini, $124 (down from $249) at Mister Zimi
A dress that looks good on everybody sounds too good to be true, right? Well you haven’t tried this beautiful midi dress from Mister Zimi. Dozens of reviews on the brand’s website talk about how universally “flattering” it is. Reviewers love that it is a “great fit and sinches perfectly at the waist” while others rave about the boning. “I like the boning in the bodice to give more structure up top but then flowing from below rib cage/ waist,” says one five-star review. Another says, “I wasn’t sure I could pull of something this vibrant but I am in love with it!” Do yourself a favour and add to cart now.
ASOS DESIGN Curve cotton jumbo scallop puff sleeve smock midi dress in rust, $48 (down from $64) at ASOS
A smock dress is ideal for hot summer days and this rust-coloured one from ASOS gets a big tick of approval.
We loved the dress’ flattering square neckline and statement puff sleeves, plus it’s made from a breathable 100 per cent cotton.
Petal & Pup Solta Crochet Midi Dress – Oatmeal, $61.97 (down from $89) at Petal & Pup
Crochet is having a big moment this summer and this midi dress from Petal & Pup is perfect to throw on when you’re going to and from the beach.
With a flattering V neckline and collar, it’s made from breathable polyester meaning you’ll still stay cool when wearing it despite the fact it’s a knit.
Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress, $144 at SKIMS
Like Kim Kardashian’s famous champagne photo shoot this dress broke the internet when it was first released by the shapewear company. To this day shoppers continue to rave about just how comfy — not to mention flattering — this SKIMS dress is.
Unsurprisingly it’s gone viral on TikTok, where the hashtag #skimsdress has been viewed a whopping 167 million times.
Shoppers rave on the video app about how the “amazing” dress “fits like a glove”, with many saying the style is so supportive you don’t need to wear a bra with it either.
Whatever your opinion on the Kardashians may be, the consensus is that this dress is a staple piece you’ll want to invest in for summer.
Forever New Curve Madi Curve Tie Front Midi Dress Blue Providence Ditsy, $44.95 (down from $139.99) at Myer
This gorgeous print just screams summer picnics. Made from 100 per cent viscose this lightweight dress has a flattering sweetheart neckline with keyhole and tie-up detail as well as cute cropped sleeves.
Aere Checked Linen Wrap Dress, $180 at THE ICONIC
When it comes to dressing for the warmer months linen has to be up there as one of the top fabrics to wear, which is why you’ll find it featuring heavily on this list.
This gorgeous brown check dress from Aere features cute puff sleeves and a flattering V-neck style.
With a versatile midi length and wrap style that ties around the waist, this dress also has a cotton lining.
Aere Bias Cut Linen Midi Dress, $105 (down from $140) at THE ICONIC
When fashion influencer and Aere ambassador Tash Sefton shared an Instagram Reel of her wearing seven outfits from the brand, it didn’t take long for shoppers to praise her choices.
Followers on Instagram said they were “obsessed” with the “fire” outfits she shared, with this Aere dress worn by Sefton the perfect casual summer look.
Made from 100 per cent linen this watercolour print orange dress has a scoop V-neck with seams to specifically contour around the bust for a flattering look.
The Fated Picnic Dress, $68.23 (down from $129.95) at THE ICONIC
This popular dress is back once again at THE ICONIC, proving you need to snap it up before it sells out. The flattering fitted cut with a flared skirt, coupled with the trending gingham print is likely why this perfect casual summer dress is so in demand.
Showpo Sitting Pretty Dress, $89.95 at Showpo
With a size range spanning from a 6 to a 20, this effortless summer dress can easily be dressed up or down to suit the occasion. The fitted waistline cinches your waist, while the button skirt allows for a little leg, or none at all depending on your mood.
Aere Linen Shirred Midi Dress, $127.50 (down from $170) at THE ICONIC
Another linen dress by Aere we couldn’t resist adding the list thanks to its striking ruched waist detailing.
Available in a variety of colours (although our pick is this rust shade) this dress has a V-neckline and breezy draped sleeves.
Atmos&Here Curvy Jaimie Lace Maxi Dress, $129.99 at THE ICONIC
Lace is a great option for the office in summer as it’s a conservative look but also more breezy than thicker fabrics.
This lace is made from a cotton blend, with short puff sleeves and a mid-length A-line skirt that’s ideal for work.
David Lawrence Paulette Polka Dot Dress in Navy/White, $207.20 (down from $259) at Myer
Another fail safe option for work, polka dots are a classic print for a season. We love this sleeveless design as it will go perfectly under a blazer with heels at work, while you can easily dress it down with flats and by leaving a few buttons undone at the top for the weekend.
Tie Waist Midi Dress, $149 (down from $229) at Country Road
Made from 100 per cent cotton this dress will keep you cool all summer long in the office. With a midi length and pockets, this shirt dress has a flattering tie waist and gathering around the back.
Oxford Peta Linen Blend Dress, $63 (down from $249) at The Dom
While it’s made from a breezy linen blend this dress is still formal enough to incorporate into your office wardrobe. With a flattering fitted waist and ruffled square neckline, pair with your favourite heels and you’re good to go.
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HOW TO DRESS FOR A NIGHT OUT
Unsure of how to style a dress for a night out? Rozalia Russian, who has released a limited edition fashion collection with Runaway The Label, told news.com.au it’s all about making sure your clothes fit and feel comfortable.
“Tailoring and wearing the right undergarments is my number one tip. There is nothing worse than being out and about and having to adjust your dress because the straps are too long or your dress is falling down at the bust,” she said.
“I have all my dresses tailored to ensure they fit me like a glove, and I don’t need to worry about adjusting anything while I am out.”
Rozalia also recommends investing in shapewear like Spanx as “not only does it smooth everything out including underwear lines, but it also creates another barrier for those pieces in your wardrobe that are a little bit see-through”.
WHAT ARE THE BEST SUMMER DRESS STYLES?
Maxi: A long dress that reaches to at least your ankles, a maxi is a perfect summer option because they are usually made from light materials (plus their long length offers extra sun protection). They’re also versatile and can be easily dressed up or down depending on your accessories.
Halter: Featuring a neckline that goes around the neck leaving the shoulders bare, a halter dress is a sophisticated look perfect for more formal occasions. A floral halter dress is a timeless summer classic.
Shift: Typically short, a shift dress hangs loose from the body, making it ideal for the warmer months when tighter styles can feel too restrictive. Shift dresses are a great office wear or casual summer option.
WHAT ARE THE BEST MATERIALS FOR A SUMMER DRESS?
Linen: Top of the list is linen. Made from natural fibres, linen is woven loosely together meaning heat can escape more easily from the body. It also has the added benefit of feeling cool on the skin, drying quickly and lasting a long time.
Cotton: Affordable and natural, cotton is another excellent choice, especially given it’s so widely available. Cotton is lightweight, soft on the skin and will try easily if it gets wet with sweat.
Polyester: Ideal for activewear, polyester sneaks its way into many summer dresses alongside cotton. Made from plastic fibres, polyester is sweat wicking and stays cool even when hot.
To get the best deal on every purchase, be sure to check out news.com.au Coupons, where you’ll find discounts on brands like Country Road, The Iconic, and many more.
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