Five Summer Dresses You Need in Your Life

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! I’m not talking about marshmallow toasting (though you can do that too), or party hosting - well wait, maybe the theme DOES apply. Most people hear that very first line and associate it with the holidays or Christmas. In my humble and skewed opinion, the most wonderful time of the year is the season of summer dresses! Come on, now. I’m a June baby. This is IT for me. The warmer, the better. Because I appreciate and am grateful for each of you, I want to share with you the five summer dresses you need in your life. Right now. These are my current, favorite day or night dresses. I try and keep it versatile for the most part.

I am all over the frilled-sleeve look. It is the perfect touch of embellishment without overdoing it. This summer dress will carry you through several summers - depending on the style you buy. It is not too trendy, very flirty and a universally all occasion dress. I like a dress that allows me to maximize my cost-per-wear. The frilled-sleeve look is definitely one of those styles - as long as you keep your ruffles and other embellishments in moderation. If it stands out too much...well you know what happens when you are too memorable. *smile* The dress I am pictured in is definitely not subtle, but I couldn’t pass it up. I didn’t spend a lot of money on it so I don’t mind wearing just a few times this summer.

A lace dress is definitely high on my list of the five summer dresses you need in your life. Allow me to clarify though. By lace dress, I mean a dress with some sort of lace overlay, lace inset (or mesh inset) or other lace details. It is such a striking look and you can find many of these dresses at affordable price points (but they look just as good as the designer dresses). I’m absolutely crazy about this stunning sheath dress with the edgy, patterned lace layer. I mentioned earlier I liked the versatility of these dresses ( day and night). I probably wouldn’t wear this particular design by Bailey 44 to many places during the day. There are still many options that are more than suitable for day dresses.

Shirt dresses are my absolute jam because they are effortless, stylish and comfortable. Rock them alone, over jeans or some other item and you’ve got multiple looks going. I keep it understated (yet cute) during the day usually with skinny jeans and subtle jewelry. It is during the evening I change the game. I like to add a sky-high platform or similar heel, I lose the skinnys and my jewelry gets a bit bolder. Still cute, just in a different way.

At least in the near future, I don’t think I will lose my love for off-the-shoulder dresses (or tops). They look good on everyone and there are a myriad of styles and designs to choose from. It doesn’t get old and I don’t get tired. My wardrobe is bursting at the seams with off-the-shoulder pieces and I keep on adding to it. One subtle way to change it up is with a one-shoulder dress. I love the asymmetrical neck and how it can be polished or sexy, depending on the vibe you are inspired to rock. This is that one dress that really accentuates your style.

A maxi dress screams “vacation” to me. It is all about capturing your personal style with the added element of relaxation. Whenever I travel to a warm destination I include a maxi. It is the perfect dinner dress. I also love tank-style maxis for wandering throughout the day - such a great sun-ready look. They are an easy go-to piece and so comfortable. I have a few maxi dresses, that aren’t too trendy, that have lasted me for years. They are timeless and should be a staple in every woman’s closet. Again this is one of those dresses that flatter every body type. You can even wear them in color months. Just add your favorite pair of boots or booties and a bomb bomber jacket, maybe a signature tee in a contrasting color underneath and you are good to go!

Which of these is your summer go-to, or like me do you have to have them all? Tell me. Did I miss any? See you in the comments. Xx - C