14 Lightweight Midi Dresses That Are Perfect For Hot Summer Days

Moda Operandi
Moda Operandi
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When I think of a midi dress, I think of lots of fabric, which, in theory, is the last thing I want to be wearing in the summer. But, contrary to popular belief, a midi dress is actually a great option for the sweltering summer heat. The trick is to find one made of lightweight fabric. Think cotton, linen, silk, you know, your favorite fabrics. Easy, breezy, and oh so comfortable these are the 14 dresses worth wearing all season long.

What are we into right now? Bright pink styles, lots of summery florals, and even options if you refuse to give up your favorite beach dress. Long sleeves, short sleeves, tank dresses, and even strapless dresses: they all belong in your closet. To get specific, there's a white slip dress we've been eyeing for a while; it's a great timeless staple to have in your closet should you need a great dress at a moment's notice, and it's also a good option if you're getting married soon. You could wear it to any one of your wedding festivities, even change into it post ceremony; it's definitely comfortable enough! Keep on reading to shop all our selects.

A Cutout Dress: Madewell Seersucker Puff-Sleeve Cutout Midi Dress
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A Cutout Dress: Madewell Seersucker Puff-Sleeve Cutout Midi Dress

Cutouts are here to stay, as is evident in this cute Madewell Seersucker Puff-Sleeve Cutout Midi Dress ($148). We love the light green hue, and the simple back cutout that adds a little something extra to the silhouette. Some customers say it runs a little big, so if you're curious about sizing, consider going down.

A Sexy Dress: Christopher Esber Triquestra Front Tie Slip Dress
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A Sexy Dress: Christopher Esber Triquestra Front Tie Slip Dress

This Christopher Esber Triquestra Front Tie Slip Dress ($740) is a sexy summer dress. The combination of the cutouts and the light slip style is unique, and we're so on board. This is also an easy style to dress up or down; try it with flat sandals or neutral heels.

A Crochet Dress: Akoia Swim Esme Crocheted Cotton Midi Dress
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A Crochet Dress: Akoia Swim Esme Crocheted Cotton Midi Dress

Crochet is having a major comeback right now, and we love this Akoia Swim Esme Crocheted Cotton Midi Dress ($160) for on and off the beach. It's got some see-through aspects, which makes it sexy and summery, but you could wear it with sandals on the weekend. Just make sure you wear sunscreen, or risk some unconventional tan lines!

An Off the Shoulder Dress: Old Navy Fit & Flare Puff-Sleeve Smocked Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress
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An Off the Shoulder Dress: Old Navy Fit & Flare Puff-Sleeve Smocked Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

This Old Navy Fit & Flare Off-The-Shoulder Puff-Sleeve Smocked Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress ($55) is a stunner, and looks like it should be three times more expensive than it is. We like this dress paired with strappy sandals, as shown above. The medium brown color is cool and sophisticated, but it also comes in black.

A White Dress: Ciao Lucia Brigida Dress
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A White Dress: Ciao Lucia Brigida Dress

White dresses are the staple of our summer wardrobe. We've been eyeing this gorgeous Ciao Lucia Brigida Dress ($385) for a while, and might just have to take the plunge. The lightweight style feels airy and breezy, and makes us want to wear this on the Italian Riviera, though we're just hanging at home.

A Printed Dress: Mille Klara Dress
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A Printed Dress: Mille Klara Dress

If you're someone who loves a fun print, you need this Mille Klara Dress ($228) in your life. We're very into the unique florals, as well as the ruffles at the sleeves and the hemline. Plus, it's made of 100 percent cotton, so it's lightweight and breathable.

A Smocked Dress: Reformation Nira Dress
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A Smocked Dress: Reformation Nira Dress

Smocking, particularly at the top of a dress, is one of the easiest ways to make a garment feel more comfortable. Plus, it's not too heavy, and a great option in the summertime. We're obsessed with the silhouette and construction of this gorgeous Reformation Nira Dress ($248).

A Pink Dress: Tach Clothing Amelie Dress
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A Pink Dress: Tach Clothing Amelie Dress

This Tach Clothing Amelie Dress ($205) looks demure from the front, but the cutouts at the back tell a slightly different story. We like this dress with flat sandals for day, or dressed up with strappy heels at night. Plus, a pink dress always makes us smile.

A Comfortable Dress: o.p.t Lazy Afternoon Dress
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A Comfortable Dress: o.p.t Lazy Afternoon Dress

When you want a dress you can throw on and run out the door, reach for this o.p.t Lazy Afternoon Dress ($160). It feels like a nightgown, and can be worn running errands, hanging out with your family and friends, or even as a bathing suit coverup. We love the swiss dots, and the fact that it has pockets!

A Silk Dress: Madewell Silk Sophia Cami Midi Dress
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A Silk Dress: Madewell Silk Sophia Cami Midi Dress

Silk is super lightweight, and feels great on even the hottest summer days. Reach for this Madewell Silk Sophia Cami Midi Dress ($198) when you don't know what you want to wear. It's comfortable, easy to style, and also a great option to throw in your carry-on bag.

A Slip Dress: Olivia von Halle Issa Ivory Slip
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A Slip Dress: Olivia von Halle Issa Ivory Slip

We love everything about this elegant Olivia von Halle Issa Ivory Slip ($400). It's minimal, timeless, and would make a great option for a pre-wedding event, or even an afterparty dress. A slip dress is a wardrobe essential, and one worth splurging on, as you'll have it for years to come.

An Everyday Dress: Madewell Seersucker Lucie Button-Front Smocked Midi Dress
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An Everyday Dress: Madewell Seersucker Lucie Button-Front Smocked Midi Dress

Whether you're going to work or need something to wear on casual weekend outings, reach for this cute Madewell Seersucker Lucie Button-Front Smocked Midi Dress ($148). It's so easy to style; we like it with flat black sandals or white sneakers. Plus, the smocking makes it oh so comfortable.

A Strapless Dress: Staud Elroy Dress
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A Strapless Dress: Staud Elroy Dress

We're having a moment with strapless dresses right now, and this Staud Elroy Dress ($285) is at the top of our wishlist. We love the bright coral color, the cute buttons down the front, and the stretchy, comfortable material. It's a great weekend or travel dress.

An Affordable Dress: Old Navy Fit & Flare Flutter Sleeve Smocked Midi Dress
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An Affordable Dress: Old Navy Fit & Flare Flutter Sleeve Smocked Midi Dress

Looking for something easy, comfortable, and affordable? You need this Old Navy Fit & Flare Flutter Sleeve Smocked Midi Dress ($45, originally $50) in your life. It also comes in black and red, but the white is perfect for summer. Plus, we love that it has pockets!