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Sweating Through Every Summer Outfit? These Breathable Dresses Hold up in 90-Degree Heat

Don’t let a heat wave cramp your style

summer dress
Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesGetty Images

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When temperatures start climbing, getting dressed in a cute outfit can feel a lot less appealing. Our tip? Skip the shorts-and-top combo, which can feel stiff and uncomfortable, and opt for a lightweight sundress instead. It’s so much easier to throw on, in more ways than one. Not only does a breathable dress offer a breezy feel that gets you through even the hottest days, but it’s also versatile.

A loose, relaxed fit and airy material can make you feel so much more free and comfy, whether you’re spending the afternoon in the sun or running errands. Our favorites include chic linen shift dresses and loose-fitting maxis, as well as bright and bold patterns to make your look more fun. Shop below to find your new go-to option.

17 Breathable Dresses That Hold up in 90-Degree Heat

1. Our Favorite: Searching for an elevated sun dress for a special occasion that doesn’t leave you feeling overheated? Look no further. This floral dress has the prettiest contrast hem and puffed sleeves that make it feel so fun and sophisticated. Plus, it’s made of 100% cotton, so it’s breathable and light.

2. Runner-Up: With a soft, lightweight feel, this tank dress is one you’ll reach for again and again. The button-up front and loose fit make it both put-together and relaxed, and the best part? There are two large pockets in the front.

3. Go-To Basic: Think of this shift dress as your new favorite casual little black dress. The simple shape and minimalist style make it so versatile, while the linen blend makes it super lightweight and cool.

4. Sporty Chic: This Columbia active dress was literally designed to be worn comfortably in the heat. The fabric is super lightweight and made with a cooling technology that pulls heat and moisture away from your skin, keeping sweat at bay. Bonus: the UPF 30 protects you from the sun.

5. Sunshine Yellow: This bright yellow midi dress is worth it for the sunny shade alone, but it also feels cool even on hot days. That’s thanks to the 100% cotton fabric that makes it breathable and light. And we love the eyelet lace around the hem.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 20: Eva Colas wears black sunglasses from Dior, silver and diamonds earrings, a navy blue and white striped print pattern halter-neck / tank-top / midi tube dress, a beige and blue Dior Oblique Jacquard Saddle crossbody clutch from Dior, a black J'adior bracelet from Dior, silver rings, on May 20, 2022 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)

Related: These 17 Lightweight Summer Dresses Feel Like a Cool Breeze

6. Boho Babe: Made of a soft, lightweight linen blend, this maxi dress offers a little more coverage without making you feel uncomfortable. The relaxed, loose fit gives it a boho feel, and you can easily keep it casual with cute sandals.

7. Relaxed Luxe: There’s something so effortlessly chic about this striped shift dress, which looks like a more elegant version of an oversized button-down. Made of 100% cotton, it’s super lightweight and soft, so it has an airy feel.

8. Feminine Details: Looking for a breathable dress with sleeves? This mini dress features short sleeves and is made of 100% organic cotton, so it’s nice and cooling. It has a relaxed fit but still cinches in the waist in a flattering way.

9. Office-Friendly: If you need a lightweight dress that feels professional but chic, this shirt dress is perfect. It’s made of 100% linen, so it’s breezy and soft, and it would look so cool with either sneakers or heeled sandals.

10. Laid Back and Cool: Snag this striped maxi dress for days when you’re running errands and want to be comfy and cool, or if you’re looking for a swimsuit cover-up that’s cute enough to wear out to eat. The inverted pleating in the front makes it more flattering too.

11. On The Move: Constantly running around? This sporty activewear dress is such a good pick because it’s functional and cute. The stretchy fabric feels light and cool, it’s sleeveless and it has built-in shorts that make it extra comfy.

12. So Versatile: This midi dress features a classic fit-and-flare style and is so easy to dress up or down with the right shoes and accessories. Plus, it’s made of 100% linen for a luxe look and feel that leaves you cool.

13. Lovely in Lace: You’ll be reminiscent of a flower child in the best way in this flowy white maxi dress. It features pretty lace details and a relaxed slip dress fit that makes it so comfortable and cute.

14. Rich Mom: With its button-down style and elevated linen material, this mini dress instantly makes you look put together. The tie at the waist accentuates your shape for a super flattering fit too.

15. Country Club Worthy: This mini shift dress features a bold print and fun colors that make it stand out and give it a preppy vibe. We also love the lightweight fabric that helps when the temperatures hit 90 and above.

16. Loose and Laid-Back: Made of a blend of cotton and linen, this maxi dress is breathable, lightweight and so comfy. It has large pockets that you’ll love actually using and a super relaxed fit, so it can be really versatile.

17. Wardrobe Staple: This linen mini dress has a classic style and looks so much more expensive than it is. The square neckline and more open back are fun details; otherwise, this is a simple option you’ll wear again and again.

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summer sun dresses

Related: White Dresses Are Out — The Colorful Sundresses We're Wearing Instead

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