Long Summer Dresses

Looking chic in the dog days of summer is a challenge even for the rich and beautiful, which is why long summer dresses have become the go-to piece for those who want to be comfortable yet stylish even when it is 100 degrees outside. If you don’t already have a wardrobe full of maxi dresses, it is time to check out the bevy of options available.

Materials range from silk to cotton, and you can choose from bold prints, bright colors, or stick to basics that are more neutral. Any maxi dress can easily transition between day and night with a few easy accessory changes. Adding a tailored jacket or a short-sleeved cardigan takes the long summer dress into the office for even greater versatility.

The maxi dress looks is best for:

• Long, lean body types

• Showing off arms
• Hiding less-than-optimum legs

• Small busts

• Pregnant women



Even if you are short in stature, or large in the bust, there are still options that work well with your shape. Just pay attention to the cut of the dress and the colors/pattern. Dark colors are slimming and patterns will play up your figure flaws. For larger busts, opt for a higher cut neckline, sturdy straps, and consider a cardigan or cropped jacket for added support.

• Halter

The halter comes in many guises, but typically, the straps tie or wrap around the back of your neck. This looks flattering on almost any shape and size, as it emphasizes the shoulders and shows off your back.

• V-neck

V-neck maxi dresses are versatile for either large or small-busted women. For those with larger busts, make sure the straps are substantial and that there is enough support in the cup so everything stays in place.

• Square neck

The square neckline is difficult to pull off except for women with a small- to medium-sized bust. This is definitely a more casual look that is appropriate for the office (with a jacket or cardigan) or for running errands during the day.

• Strapless

This standard evening-style neckline is appropriate for daywear as long as your dress is simple, cotton and casual. A strapless dress is also extremely versatile and can be easily dressed up for night with a few choice accessories.

While the long summer dress is a perfect throw-on-and-go piece, it is also fun to play with different accessories and shoes to mix up your look.

• Flat leather sandals

• A thin, low-slung belt

• Big hoop earrings
• Cap-sleeve cardigan

• Ballet flats
• Woven wedge sandals

• Flat metallic sandals

• Big, sparkly chandelier earrings

• Sequin cardigan
• Cropped leather jacket

• Stacked bangles


A gorgeous free-flowing frock is an effortless way to remain comfortable and sophisticated throughout June, July and August. With so many styles and fabrics to choose from, look for a flattering color and a fabric that is suited to your needs: cotton for day, chiffon or silk for night. Check out the following resources to find the perfect dress for your next summer occasion.

• Empire-Waist Halter Dress


Graceful, comfortable and versatile, this fabulously simple dress from the Gap is excellent as a beach cover up, an easy throw-on dress for the weekend or ideal for a casual date.

• Manambe Dress


A poplin burst of flowers adds some serious color to your wardrobe. With a tie neck and side zip, this silk stunner from Anthropologie is the ideal dress for summer weddings.

• Perfectly Imperfect Diedre Dress

Made in Los Angeles from 70 percent bamboo and 30 percent organic cotton, this piece drapes beautifully and works well with most body types. Pair with silver metallic sandals.

• Long Embossed-Cotton Aubrey Halter Dress

J Crew once again proves that they are masters of pure American style. Crafted from fine textured cotton this dress has a fitted bodice with boning, an A-line skirt and a straight neckline, perfect for small-busted women.

• ShopBop.com

ShopBop.com, an online shopping Mecca, has several styles at many different price points. Choose from flowing cotton pieces from Juicy Couture, or silky frocks by Chris Benz.

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