12 Breezy Summer Dresses To Help You Look Good and Stay Cool

As temperatures rise, many of us find ourselves wanting to embrace the warmth with bare legs and a breezy new look. Enter the quintessential summer dress: a sartorial staple that effortlessly combines comfort and chic. Few garments rival the versatility and charm of the summer dress, making it a must-have item in any wardrobe.

Crafted from lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and chiffon, these dresses offer a reprieve from the sweltering heat while exuding an air of laid-back glam. Whether you're strolling along sun-kissed beaches, sipping refreshing cocktails at rooftop soirées, or exploring city streets, the right summer dress can be your BFF in staying cool and looking great. And with styles including flowing maxi dresses that evoke bohemian whimsy and breezy sundresses adorned with playful patterns, the options are as varied as the summer days themselves. Shop some of our favorites, below.

1. Hill House Home The Ellie Nap Dress

Hill House put the "Nap Dress" on the map as clothing that looks nice enough for brunch but feels comfortable enough to sleep in. There are fun new prints every season, and this watercolor-inspired botanical is perfect for summer.

2. Faithful the Brand x Revolve Elissa Mini Dress

Step into fall's red trend a few months early with big florals on an otherwise summery minidress.

3. Abercrombie & Fitch Linen-Blend Squareneck Column Midi Dress

This linen-blend, black-and-white dress is cute and appropriate for work functions, which can be a challenge in the summer.

4. Rhode Delilah Dress

Though it's long-sleeved and midi-length, this dress's cotton voile fabric makes it seriously breathable. It's perfect for when you want a little sun coverage but don't want to sweat.

5. Quince 100% European Linen Button-Front Dress

You can't go wrong with a linen dress in the summer, but sometimes the fabric can give off more "beach" than "boss." This one is structured enough for slightly more formal activities but still very comfortable.

6. Boden Alba Tiered Cotton Maxi Dress

This cotton maxi dress feels especially elegant with a button top and tie waist. It comes in seven colorful prints and also petite sizes.

7. Everlane The Crochet Tank Dress

If colorful prints aren't your thing, this black-and-white striped dress might be. It's made from breathable organic cotton so you can wear it all day long, for any occasion.

8. Farm Rio Off-White Bloom Garden Maxi Dress

Eyelet details and playful tassel ties make this caftan-style dress look more elegant, and the 100% linen composition ensures it's comfortable in the heat.

9. Sunday Best Martine Poplin Dress

In 12 colors and various sleeves and lengths, this under-$100 dress provides tons of options to make it uniquely yours.

10. Free People Oasis Printed Midi Dress

Although it only comes in sizes XS to XL, this roomy, stretchy dress fits a wide range of body types, making it the brand's most popular style season after season.

11. Ulla Johnson Ottilie Dress

Swap out your LBD for a little navy dress this season. You'll still get that classic "little black dress" look but in a slightly lighter, brighter shade for the warmer months.

12. Selkie The Puck Charming Dress

This floral maxi dress features a peek-a-boo opening at the bust, but a relaxed fit throughout for breezy comfort. We also love that it comes in sizes XXS to 6X so everyone can get in on the action.