The easiest way to look put together and feel comfortable during the summer months is to wear a dress. Not all dresses are office-friendly, though, so you must curate your wardrobe to have a few options that are quick to throw on in the morning yet polished enough for your 9 to 5. If you’re not sure where to start, we found the best summer work dresses that are cool enough for the heat and professional enough for the office.
We prioritized lightweight fabrics and more structured silhouettes to combine the best of both worlds. As great as these dresses are for the heat, though, keep in mind that your office may be blasting the air conditioning for the next few months. Don’t forget to leave a cozy cardigan at your desk in case your dress is doing a bit too good of a job at keeping you sweat-free.
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1. Our Favorite: Hitting right at the knee, this lightweight midi dress cinches in at the waist for some structure. The range of colors and patterns can pair with heels in the office or sneakers on the weekend.
2. Wow-Worthy Wrap: No one will believe you only paid $37 for this short-sleeve midi that has a fit and flare design and cool belt for a flattering silhouette.
3. Frilly Florals: With fluttery sleeves and lady-like details, you’ll be turning heads in this black and cream dress that easily pairs with a cardigan or jacket.
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4. Sweet Shift: A shift dress is just what summer calls for, and this under-$40 flowy option has elbow-length sleeves for a bit more coverage in the arms.
5. Meeting Ready: This loose and flowy shirtdress is smart enough for the boardroom, yet cool enough for when you step outside, thanks to the cotton-blend material.
6. Two to One: Your co-workers will think this is a thoughtfully put-together top and skirt, but this ribbed midi dress is all one piece with a cool belt tie to separate the two.
7. Rich Mom: You’ll be serving business woman realness in this Donna Karan New York dress that has a suit-like feel for more formal offices.
8. Breezy Blue: From the office to a baby shower, this Vince Camuto tiered maxi will become one of your most worn pieces. And with the lovely blue print, who could blame you?
9. Loose Look: To dress up this flowy midi dress, add elegant jewelry, kitten heels and maybe even a blazer (if the AC is blasting!).
10. Sassy Structure: An A-line silhouette will never go out of style, especially when it’s like this sleeveless dress that’s structured with an asymmetrical hem.
11. Pretty Pleats: A sleeveless dress can look super sleek, especially when it’s like this Zesica midi dress that has a cinched-in waistline and pleats.
12. Relaxed Shirtdress: Love the look of a shirtdress, but don’t want it to be so structured? This tiered midi has a loose design, so you’ll have the elegance and the comfort.
13. Sweet Sweater: This collared number is technically a sweater dress, but with the short sleeves and ribbed style, it totally works for summer days in the office.
14. Perfect Polka Dots: All eyes will be on you when you wear this polka-dot dress that comes with a chic belt for an added layer of cool.
15. Fabulous Fit: You’ll own any meeting on your calendar when you wear this bodycon tweed dress that has gorgeous cap sleeves and a flattering neckline.
16. Striking Stripes: The top half of this A-line midi dress has nautical-inspired stripes and buttons, and the lower half is pleated, resulting in an anything but boring option.
17. Everyday Wear: Behold: The no-fuss frock of your dreams. This Nordstrom midi dress has a slight V-neck, cinched-in waist and dolman sleeve to keep you cool all summer.
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