When I was invited to a friend’s wedding in Charleston, I instantly RSVP’d ‘yes.’ I was excited for my bridesmaid duties, but was equally stoked to see charming Charleston fashion firsthand, which is a style I’ve heard so much about. The dresses alone made me want to go back, and I found 17 options that nail the Southern aesthetic.
Between the billowy fabrics, gingham prints, floral everything and frilly, boutiquey details, these Charleston-style dresses look straight off a Pinterest board. Better yet, they’re available right at Amazon, Nordstrom, Abercrombie & Fitch and more, starting at $32. I’m stocking up to look like a preppy rich mom all spring and summer.
17 Charleston-Inspired Spring Dresses
1. My Favorite: Picnic-style dresses are everywhere in Charleston. This breezy maxi dress features a classic gingham print, ruffle straps and a smocked bodice that makes it as flattering as it is stylish.
2. Pretty Puff Sleeves: Channel brunch vibes in this puff-sleeve dress that makes every outing feel like a laid-back Sunday morning. The paisley pattern adds a playful touch.
3. In Tiers: Lengthen your legs without even trying in this flowy button-front maxi. Not only does it elongate your frame, but it also cinches your waist with the belt tie.
4. Vintage Flair: Everything about this pleated midi dress screams ’boutique,’ including the delicate floral print and dreamy, feminine detailing. The pockets are just a bonus.
5. Sassy Square Neck: If you want to highlight your collarbone, this square-neck midi has you covered. Made with 100% cotton, the dress is designed with comfort and breathability in mind. Yes, you’ll wear it all spring and summer!
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6. Country Club: You don’t need a club membership to look like you have one, thanks to this colorful babydoll dress. The long sleeves and a knee length keep it modest.
7. Polka Dots: Polka dots are having a moment. Nail the look with this tiered maxi dress that, alongside a darling print, has a silhouette-enhancing waist for shape.
8. Could be Zimmermann: Polished and chic, this printed mini dress is as classy as it gets. It reminds me of the dresses that Charleston women styled with Louis Vuitton bags.
9. Lilly Pulitzer: Nothing screams ‘East Coast rich mom’ like Lilly Pulitzer clothing. I can’t believe this colorful dress find is under $150!
10. Center of Attention: Weddings, dinner parties, graduations, etc! This vibrant maxi dress works for it all, so go ahead . . . grab two colors.
11. Simple Stunner: Look effortlessly put together in this button-front dress that channels yacht wife and old money style at the same time. The muted stripes give it a subtle lengthening effect.
12. Pretty and Playful: With semi-wide shoulder straps, a midi length and a spring print options, this Abercrombie & Fitch dress begs to be worn to the farmers’ market. Just add a cardigan and sneakers.
13. Fun Flutter Sleeves: If Charlestonian and Parisian styles merged, it would create this flutter-sleeve dress that’s enhanced with a coastal-inspired rickrack trim.
14. Everywhere Outfit: Finally! A dress that goes from errands to brunch without a wardrobe change. This button-front shirtdress works for any casual occasion.
15. Boho Babe: Paisley, flowers, tie straps, oh my! This Free People maxi dress gives preppy a boho twist.
16. Striped Up: Look like you own a million-dollar home on Sullivan’s Island with this striped T-shirt dress. It requires only a tote bag and sandals to look complete.
17. Colors Galore: Good luck choosing just one of these short-sleeve maxi dresses. At nearly half off, you can grab a few guilt-free.
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