Each spring, as temperatures creep up from the 60s to the 70s, the only thing I want to do—other than enjoy every meal al fresco—is shop for breezy summery dresses. Now that New York is almost guaranteed to hit the 80s every day, it’s time to press purchase on the dozens of dresses that have been idling in my shopping cart. Well, maybe not every single item. But, plenty of excellent summer dresses are available to buy (and wear!) now.
There are plenty of fantastic styles to try this season. From slinky spaghetti straps to billowy kaftans, lightweight linen, and enchanting eyelets, the options would be overwhelming if they weren’t that wonderful. Pick out a few fun pieces for upcoming weddings, or, if you’re a 2024 bride, embrace the opportunity to wear little white dresses for the next three months straight.
After browsing at least 300 product pages from Mango, H&M, and Zara, I’ve narrowed my selects to the 36 prettiest summer dresses to buy now. They’re all new merchandise, with most sizes in stock, and ready to ship. But don’t let your favorites linger too long; the best ones (particularly the eyelet styles) are flying off shelves quickly—I’m only partially to blame.
Shop Summer Dresses at Zara
Zara
Contrast Embroidered Dress
If I could buy only one new dress this season, this beautiful embroidered design is at the top of my list.
Zara
Linen Blend Printed Dress
Be transported to the Italian Riviera with this pretty lemon printed dress.
The accompanying belt adds a more western vibe to the little white dress.
Zara
Embroidered Shirt Dress
A classic white eyelet shirt dress will never go out of style.
Summer is the perfect time to wear playful prints.
Zara
Open Back Trench Dress
Summer brides, this one’s for you.
Zara
Mixed Tulle Knit Dress
An easy way to be the best dressed guest at that upcoming summer wedding.
Zara
Patchwork Printed Halter Dress
This handkerchief style dress is ideal for island hopping.
Zara
Midi Dress with Ruffles
Lady in red emoji—with flattering ruching and ruffles!
Zara
Twisted Linen Blend Midi Dress
We love a linen dress. It’s the ideal throw-it-on-and-go piece for everyday summer outfits.
Shop Summer Dresses at H&M
H&M
Kaftan Dress With Eyelet Embroidery
Kaftan + eyelet = the dreamiest summer dress.
H&M
Jacquard-Weave Tie-Back Dress
Check out the back, then add to your cart ASAP.
H&M
Button-Front Crêpe Dress
I’ll be wearing this as a coverup at the pool and the beach.
H&M
Long Pointelle-Knit Dress
Pointelle knits are so pretty—and unusual to see in this longer length.
H&M
Dress With Macramé Belt
Wear this tunic as a dress, or as part of a set with the matching pants.
H&M
Mini Dress With Eyelet Embroidery
Eyelet embroidery gets me every time. It’s simple, but chic, and goes with everything.
H&M
Eyelet Embroidery Camisole Dress
Similar, but with spaghetti straps.
H&M
Drawstring-Detail Kaftan Dress
I’m all about easy breezy kaftans this summer.
H&M
Bubble-Hem Bandeau Dress
Bubble hems are back, baby! Embrace the volume.
H&M
Sheer Embellished Slip Dress
A simple sheer slip dress made more ==special with a bit of sparkle.
Shop Summer Dresses at Mango
Mango
Slit Dress With Lace Detail
‘Tis the season to show just a sliver of skin.
Mango
Linen Dress With Buckle Straps
Buckle straps add an unusual element to this otherwise everyday linen look.
Mango
Linen Dress With Contrasting Details
Rick rack trim can be hit or miss, but this detail knocks it out of the park.
Mango
Flared-Sleeve Satin Dress
This bright billowy dress is giving Palm Spring and Palm Royale
Mango
Printed Dress With Openings
How pretty is this bandana-like print?
Mango
Dress With a Belted Neckline
Another simple yet versatile option that can be worn with or without the accompanying belt.
Mango
Floral Crochet Dress
Colorful crochet makes for a fun and comfortable statement dress.
The perfect wrinkle-proof dress to throw in your suitcase for a last-minute getaway.
Mango
Cotton Dress With Gathered Neckline
Wear the straps criss-crossed as pictured above, or tie it in a halter style for a subtly different look.
Mango
Embroidered Short Dress
Embroidery isn’t just for little white dresses. Embrace the dark side.
Mango
Printed Strap Dress
This playful picnic-inspired mixed print dress is perfect to wear to any daytime event.
Mango
Embroidered Dress With Turn-Down Neckline
Easy breezy in beautiful blue.
An O-ring belt gives this linen dress a very ’90s look.
Mango
100% Cotton Crochet Dress
Wear it as a coverup with your favorite swimsuit, or add a skin-colored slip to make this crochet garment appropriate evening attire.
