
In case you haven’t noticed, it’s hot outside—like, really hot. For days, temperatures across the globe have been skyrocketing, and figuring out what to wear to stay cool has gotten harder and harder as the hours tick by. Cutoff jean shorts and a flimsy tank top will only get you so far, and with another workweek starting, it’s important (and timely) to find heat wave–proof dressing options that look polished and chic. The trick fashion people have relied on summer after summer? Lightweight dresses that don’t cling to sweaty skin, and fortunately for you, I’ve rounded up 30 of them below.
From affordable options from Nordstrom, Zara, J.Crew, and H&M to investment-worthy designer alts by the likes of Calvin Klein, Doën, and Staud, there’s a heat wave–ready summer dress for every shopper in the collection that follows. Shift minidresses, nightgown-inspired frocks, and silk slips are all included, and the easy linen numbers will get you through even the hottest and sweatiest of July days. All you have to do is add sunscreen, a raffia bag, and some easy flat sandals to finish off your 100-degree outfit.
Shop Heat Wave Dresses
Not only is this romantic slip perfect for a warm day when you need something to throw on and feel comfortable in, no matter where you go, but it’s also on sale.
Massimo Dutti
Printed Flared Midi Dress
This is the kind of airy, flowy frock that will never leave you sweaty and sticky.
Reformation
Emma-Rose Silk Dress
When in doubt, go with a sleepwear-inspired slip. When it gets really hot, no one’s going to tell you that you should wear more clothes.
Open Edit
Square Neck Maxi Dress
A stunning and shockingly easy dress to wear again and again.
CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION
Artemis Organic Cotton Midi Dress
As seen on Alexa Chung and Olivia Wilde.
Yellow the Label
Augusta Linen Dress
This linen mini is a fun alt to classic white sundresses.
Easton Marley
The Odette Dress
Every cool girl I follow is wearing this dress this summer. I have it, too, and trust me. It’s perfect.
J.Crew
Scallop-Trim Crochet Minidress
Yes, you can wear this to the beach, but don’t be scared to wear it with high-coverage briefs and a bralette on a hot day, beach or no beach.
DÔEN
Maltina Tie-Detailed Printed Cotton and Silk-Blend Mini Dress
This Dôen scarf mini is so cute.
Posse
Exclusive La Isla Veronica Linen Mini Kaftan
This is arguably the perfect heat wave dress.
H&M
Flared-Skirt Midi Dress
For nights out in brutal heat.
Favorite Daughter
The Favorite Linen Dress
H&M
Linen-Blend Halterneck Dress
Only $48 for this $480-looking linen dress? Say less.
Reformation
Teddi Knit Dress
If your schedule this week calls for a more formal ensemble, try this sleek, Alaïa-esque midi dress from Reformation that will help you combat the heat while still looking fresh and sophisticated.
STAUD
Laura Linen Mini Dress
This dress does it all. Just add leather flip-flops or slide sandals.
gap
Linen-Blend Crochet Yoke Mini Dress
Madewell
Airy Denim Maxi Slip Dress
The best heat wave dresses barely touch your skin at all.
ALTUZARRA
Lollie Ribbed and Woven Midi Dress
If you hate pretty things, keep scrolling.
H&M
Broderie Anglaise Halterneck Dress
Cou Cou Intimates
The Iris Slip
WWW editors swear by this easy, airy dress for hot days.
She’s gorgeous for a humid date night.
Lioness
Gracia Maxi Dress
I can’t get over this price.
The Great
The Eyelet Mini Tank Dress
ST. AGNI
Cotton-Blend Poplin Halterneck Wrap Maxi Dress
I own the top version of this and wear it too often. Now that the dress is on sale, I think I need one of my own.
Pack this on your next tropical vacation.
COS
Crochet-Knit Tape-Yarn Midi Dress
Is it just me, or does this dress deserve to be taken out to dinner in Miami?
H&M
Broderie Anglaise Cotton Beach Dress
Madewell X Shopbop
Smocked Halter Midi Dress
Prepare for countless compliments every time you wear this bandana-print dress.
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