Is it just Us, or are all the biggest pop stars wearing babydoll dresses? We’ve seen A-listers like Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter wear the girlie frock — and we’re not mad about it. The look is a one-and-done recipe for cutesy summer styling, and it’s extremely easy to replicate.
Babydoll dresses were synonymous with nightgowns in the 1950s, however, those days are long gone. The look has since hit the streets and had several revivals, each iteration looking a little more modern, playful, feminine and even punk. The mini dresses have a way of balancing flirtatiousness with dainty energy, and it’s a big reason why they’re so popular. Well, that, in addition to our favorite celebs stunning in the getup. To channel all the cool ‘It’ girls, take a peek at our list, which has options for everyday wear and girls’ night outs.
Babydoll Dresses to Channel ‘It’ Celebs This Summer
1. Our Favorite: We’re starting strong with a classic babydoll dress that has puff sleeves, a square neckline and an A-line skirt for that iconic girly look. The layered bodice ‘ups’ the style factor and has enough pleating to let you go braless.
2. Runner-Up: You get a little boho with a lot of whimsy when you snap up this swing mini. It’s less structured than the above pick, giving it that effortless appearance that’s ideal for brunches in Greenwich Village or shopping along Pacific Avenue.
3. Denim on Denim: Whoever said you can’t wear denim in the summer has never seen this cute little number. It’s made with a blend of materials, including cotton for much-needed breathability. Plus, the airy fit feels comfortable, even in 80-degree weather.
4. Laid-Back Luxe: The ruffle sleeves, milkmaid top and dainty bow detail under the bust is *chef’s kiss.* And while you can certainly wear the Free People mini dress as the model does, there’s no rule against wearing it off the shoulders as well. Read: That’s a two-in-one dress!
5. Vacation Must: This playful mini dress is what tropical vacations are made of. The open back, free-flowing skirt and bold orange color is sure to draw attention from all the locals. It’s the perfect mix of class and flirtiness, if you ask Us.
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6. Cute Coquette: Vintage vibes are alive and well with this option from BP. Unlike the other options on our list, this one features layerable sheer materials, lace trims, ruffles and bow details that, when put together, give it that trendy coquette aesthetic everyone’s after.
7. Oui, Oui: The French know a thing or two about cool-girl dressing, which is why we’re picking up this Parisian-inspired find. The polka dot print, tasteful shoulder straps and bow accents really seal the deal. Bonus: The dress is 70% off right now.
8. Everyday Ease: Sure, this babydoll mini dress looks like just another cream frock, but if you look closely, you’ll notice that it has a subtle floral print that we can’t get over. The discrete pattern whispers ‘spring’ without being too in your face about it. And yes, it’s appropriate for summer outings, too.
9. Summer Staple: Gingham prints and summer activities go hand in hand, so pick up this Edikted babydoll pick STAT. In addition to its fun pattern, the dress also has an adjustable halter strap closure and a cut-out detail in the back for a unique twist.
10. Expensive-Looking: If you’re looking for something a little more fancy, go with this pretty option from Petal & Pup. The chiffon-like fabric and fanciful print are so cute, however, the stunning cap sleeves take things up a notch.
11. Quite the Charmer: A coastal vibe meets babydoll style in this Emerson puffed-sleeved pick from Abercrombie & Fitch. We could totally see this dress worn for a Nantucket beach day or farmers’ market run.
12. Wedding Guest Dress: Babydoll dresses are usually short, but this A&F maxi number is changing the game. The long length and high-quality materials make this bestselling option appropriate for wedding ceremonies, cocktail events and the like.
13. Little Miss Sunshine: Say ‘goodbye’ to your neutrals because this summer is all about color. This smocked babydoll dress comes in tons of pretty options, but we like the sunny yellow option best.
14. Closet Hero: Your picnic outfit is complete once you throw on this gingham ruffle-hem style. It’s available in tons of warm-weather hues, so you can expand your gingham collection to go beyond classic red.
15. Soft Statement: Once we saw this puffed-sleeve number, we instantly added it to our cart. Sure, the dress features all the babydoll dress details, but the biggest selling point is the bow design. They replace run-of-the-mill buttons, giving the mini a girlish aesthetic.
16. Comfort MVP: Made with 100% cotton, this Anthropologie mini dress will be your breathable go-to this summer. Loose yet body-fitting, the Peregrine babydoll dress complements your curves via the smocked bodice and flattering A-line skirt.
17. Sale Alert: Turn heads at baby showers, date nights and graduation ceremonies when you don this feminine on-sale babydoll piece. The skirt is the star of the show with its large printed floral pattern that looks positively chic. Oh, and the smocked paneling in the back give you some stretch.
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