8 Ways to Wear a Sundress

Level up your summer staple with these items.

Sure, shorts and a tank top are an easy fix to beat the heat, but they aren't exactly easy to dress up or down, depending on what your day looks like. That's where the sundress comes in; the lightweight, loose-fitting dress is easy to throw on in a hurry and well-suited for summer weather, making it a must-have in your outfit rotation. A summery sun dress is the perfect canvas to convey your personal style, so really lean into styles that feel unique to you.

Tips

Try to look for ones made of breathable materials like cotton, linen, or silk rather than artificial, stuffy fabrics.

From swooping necklines to low hemlines and splashy prints to fitted shapes, there are endless sundress options to choose from. Ahead, find eight ways to take your sundress styling to the next level.

Under a Denim Jacket

While out and about during the day, a sundress can work wonders on its own, but as night falls and temperatures cool, a chic layering piece comes in handy. Denim jackets are just as versatile as a sundress; their soft, tailored look can give your look a bit of edge and can dress up a simple smock without feeling too formal. Darker washes certainly have a sophisticated look, but for the warmer months, we prefer lighter-washed options.

With a Button Down

Another piece to layer with a sundress is a crisp button-down shirt. Similar to denim jackets, a button-down shirt can help dress down a boldly printed or intricately designed dress for more casual outings. Be on the lookout for cotton and linen fabrications to keep things airy with your layering. Nothing switches up the shape of a shirt quite like a strategically tied knot. Whether you want to create a cropped, tucked, or draped effect—a simple twist can make all the difference.

Over an Airy Pant

Lovely layering is a fresh approach to summer dressing and for those looking for more modest fashions. A fitted mini dress is transformed from a simple frock to a stylish head-turner when worn with a pair of billowy pants underneath. To instantly elevate and elongate your look, wear this outfit combo with a simple sandal or mule to ground the look.

Cinched With a Belt

While we love the complete picture a sundress paints we are all about the details. Wearing a belt is an easy way to add visual interest to any dress and serve as a focal point to your look. If your sundress is on the delicate side then pair it with a bold, wide belt for a cool hard, and soft effect.

With a Thoughtful Sandal Choice

While you can never go wrong with wearing a dress with sneakers, the sunny season is the perfect excuse to show off your polished pedicure—so strap into your favorite pair of sandals that will tie your sundress look together with a ladylike charm. Sundresses come in a heap of hemlines to choose from, but whichever catches your eye, be sure that they also keep your toes in sight.

Accessorize With a Hat

The perfect way to top off your sundress outfit is with a haute hat. Not only do they serve the practical purpose of shading you from the summer heat, but hats also provide plenty of stylish panache, especially when worn with a flowy midi dress. If you want to look like you're on a permanent vacation, then go for a wide-brimmed or oversized floppy option.

With a Coordinated Tote

No outdoor summer OOTD is complete without a trusty tote bag to haul all your soiree supplies. When going about your day in your favorite sundress, carrying a straw tote bag adds a pastoral, practical charm to your look, which certainly beats dragging around a sad shopping bag.

In a Chic Print

Sometimes, simplicity is the way to go when getting dressed for the summer, so seeking out a sundress with a streamlined silhouette is a no-brainer. However, just because you go with an unfussy fit doesn't mean your dress can't be exciting. Punchy and playful prints launch the simplest of dress silhouettes to new, stylish heights.

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