23 Best Beach Dresses for Women
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Beach day, anyone? The beach is the place to be on long, hot days, but when it comes to beach-friendly styles, there can be a big gap between cute and comfy. Who wants a dress you can't move in or heavy jean shorts that don't breathe?
These beach dresses are everything you want and nothing you don't. They're light, insanely comfortable and super flattering. They're also under $40. From mini dresses to long, flowing maxis, these dresses can take you from beach to boardwalk and everywhere in between.
The Most Flattering Beach Dress Ever
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Why you need it: Are you seeing this right now? Stretchy, soft fabric, double layers so it's totally opaque, an adorable gathered bust and skirt and adjustable straps? Hold my beer while I order five.
Review: "I was pleasantly surprised by how cute the fit is on this dress. And it's incredibly comfortable. The pockets aren't quite where I expected them to be but it didn't do that weird thing where it makes your hips look pointy so I'm still happy with it." — Avgjaime
Buy now:Yathon Casual Beach Dresses for Women
At the Beach, Only Good Vibes Are Allowed
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Why you need it: What more does anyone want from a beach dress than good vibes? This dress has them built-in, with a vintage, silkscreen message on the front.
Alternatively, you can go with a subtle tie-dye or ombre option. Both are just as cute. It's lightweight, but it's thick enough to add a little warmth if the wind picks up.
Review: "Super cute. Perfect summer lightweight dress. A bit flowy and fitting at the same time. I don't like my dresses showing my figure off below the waist. Hoping it fits the same after I wash it." — H. Young
Buy now: Chuntianran Good Vibes Rainbow Pocket Sleeveless Maxi Dress for Women
Amazon's Favorite Halter Dress
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Why you need it: Loose-fitting dresses can get boring, but this one shakes things up with a halter neckline that we're totally in love with. The dress is also knotted in the front and has a slit at the back of the neckline to turn up the heat a few degrees.
If you get this dress, just remember that it can be hand-washed only.
Review: "Perfect in every way! I am always skeptical when purchasing clothing online so I ordered just one dress in the blue. I love the fit, the style and the quality so much I immediately ordered the coral. I'm 5'3" 127 pounds and the medium fit perfectly. Its not tight nor clingy anywhere." — Jan Rivera
Buy now: For G and PL Women's Summer Side Slit Halter Maxi Dress
A Loose-Fitting Summer Dress to Throw On Over a Swimsuit
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Why you need it: Slip dresses are all the rage these days, and this maxi dress is a major Amazon hit. It comes in 42 colors, each cuter than the last, and it has over 14,000 great reviews.
Review: "Super soft & stretchy! I’m 5’8”. 155 lbs. I bought a large & love the way it fits. It also goes all the way to the floor. If you like it a bit fitted to the body, I could have definitely bought a medium. Just bought a 2nd one in a different color!!" — Lynette Rose
Buy now: Grecerelle Women's Summer Casual Loose Dress
Long Beach Dress or Romper? It's Your Pick.
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Why you need it: There are so many ways to wear this flowy, boho style. The Amazon listing actually includes a romper version too. It's almost exactly the same as the dress version, just with legs instead of a skirt.
Both are easy to slip into, soft and breathable. The straps are adjustable too so the dress will fit women of any height.
Review: "This is exactly what I was looking for! I have a similar jumpsuit I got at a boutique on the East coast shore. I had it on the other day it was so comfortable I thought, why don't I have more of these. I found this and I actually like it better!" — squiggy
Buy now: Buenos Ninos Women's V Neck Floral Maxi Dress
A Basic, Sleeveless Beach Dress
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Why you need it: You'll look sweet as a fresh summer cherry in this sleeveless number. Or sassy in stripes. Poised in polka dots. There are over a dozen options to choose from and all under $25.
Review: "This is probably one of my favorite online clothing purchases, ever. You never quite know what you're going to get, but this one actually exceeded my expectations. The sunflower print gives off a totally 90's "Saved By the Bell" vibe that I really dig." — Cathryn
Buy now: Msbasic Women's Sleeveless Adjustable Strappy Summer Beach Swing Dress
Pick a Print. Any Print.
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Why you need it: It's the T-shirt dress you need. Seriously, we're not kidding. This is the kind of dress you're not sure you'll like until you try it on. Once you do, you don't want to take it off. It's that comfortable.
Fortunately, it comes in 40 colors and patterns so you can buy a backup while dress number one is in the wash. According to the nearly 20,000 reviews, it's worth buying two.
Review: "Perfect little dress! Just received my dress and I LOVE IT! I'm 5'3, 230 lbs and normally wear an XL so I ordered an XL. It fits perfectly. It's light but not thin and nice and cool for summer wearing." — Melissa
Buy now: Popyoung Women's Summer Casual T-Shirt Dress
Bohemian Wrap Dresses Are a Summer Staple
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Why you need it: Wrap dresses never really go out of style, and this one is one of the most purchased beach dresses on Amazon. It's dressy enough to wear with heels for a night out, and light enough to wear for a stroll on the boardwalk. It also comes in 25 different patterns.
Review: "I rarely review items but I rely heavily on other reviews so I wanted to return the favor. I had low expectations for this dress and was surprised how much I liked it! It's extremely comfortable, moves beautifully and the fabric is prettier in person than I thought it would be. All in all, it's a beautiful, easy, breezy summer maxi!" — Bradley D. Alpers
Buy now: Zesica Women's Bohemian Floral Printed Wrap V Neck Short Sleeve Split Beach Party Maxi Dress
This Long-Sleeved Number Feels Cool But Looks Hot
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Why you need it: You have to check out the back of this dress. The triangular cutout is accented by ruffles, drawing the eye downward to a tiered, leg-bearing mini skirt.
It's one of those dresses that you either love or hate, but most colors and sizes offer free returns if it doesn't work for you. It's so cute that it's worth at least trying on.
Review: "I LOVE this dress! I purchased it to wear to a bridal shower. It’s very comfortable and looks so cute! It reminds me of something from a boutique. I literally got so many compliments on it and I can’t wait to wear it again!" — Kindle Customer
Buy now: Dokotoo Women's Deep V Neck Ruffle Mini Dress
The Most Comfortable Cover-Up Dress Ever
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Why you need it: Beach days start out fun. Hours of sun, salt and sand start to wear on you, though. When the day is winding down and you're ready to call it quits, the last thing you want is to squeeze into a fitted dress.
This cover-up is long and flowing, and it has a slit on one side to keep it from looking like a muumuu.
Review: "Super comfortable. The dress I initially bought got lost during transit and I am so happy that I decided to reorder it! This is a GREAT dress for summer. The fabric is perfect, not too thin (so you can't see through it) and not too thick (that it's too hot) and I love the pockets!" — Jo
Buy now: Anrabess Women's Casual Loose Pocket Long Dress
Little Black Dresses Are Out, Little Yellow Ones Are In
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Why you need it: It's a classic fit and flare dress with a twist. The top is split in the middle and secures with a knot, leaving a cute cutout and an adorably feminine fit. You won't be able to wear this dress and not spin around in it.
Some reviewers noted that it's a better fit on those with a smaller bust, so keep that in mind before purchasing.
Review: "So I'm in love with this dress :) There were some issues upon arrival but the dress itself is amazing and is soooooo perfect for spring and summer." — Colleen
Buy now: Ecowish Summer Tie Front V-Neck Spaghetti Strap Dress
A Beach Dress for Women That's Actually on Trend
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Why you need it: Everything about this dress is deliciously vintage. The fit. The stripes. The neckline. The 900 amazing reviews. What is there not to like, honestly? It comes in navy, pale coral and reef blue, and we can't decide which we like the best.
Review: "Loving my dress. Love this dress so much that I got it in all the colors it comes in. The dress fits perfect. It's soft and comfortable. It came super fast. I'm very happy and satisfied." — Tahisha greene
Buy now: Nautica Women's Breton Stripes Sleeveless V-Neck Stretch Cotton Polo Dress
T-Shirt Fit, Sundress Flair
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Why you need it: Hot days require clothing to be wearable, and this sundress is as wearable as it gets. It's meant to wear as a cover-up, but it's cute enough to wear all the time. Oh, and it has pockets.
Review: "Great dress for every occasion. Love love love this dress!! It is a "swing" dress, so fits well at the top. And then swings out beautifully over the rest of your body giving you a silhouette that is very slimming." — Elaine Rodriquez
Buy now: PrinStory Women's T-Shirt Dress
This Flowy Maxi Beach Dress Is a Maternity Fave
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Why you need it: The contrast of a solid bodice and a printed skirt is adorable, and there's an option for everyone. Stripes, paisley, floral print, chevron pattern, you name it.
It's so comfortable and stretchy that some people have used it as a maternity dress and continued wearing it postpartum. It's that cute.
Review: "Absolutely perfect! I love this dress bought it for my maternity wardrobe but it looks fantastic postpartum as well. It is soft and not clingy so I feel confident while losing the baby weight. 100% would buy more if they had more colors!!" — Amazon Customer
Buy now: Sherosa Women Boho Summer Sleeveless Maxi Dress
A Strapless Beach Dress With Options
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Why you need it: Women come in so many different shapes and sizes, and finding a dress that's flattering on every body type is nearly impossible. This cute beach dress might be the exception. The shirred bodice is form fitting, but it has plenty of give.
Spend the afternoon snacking on the beach. Have an ice cream cone. Make it a double scoop. If you develop a food baby, this dress will conveniently hide it.
Review: "Love this dress! Have already worn it to church as well as brunch with friends! Great for Florida weather and summer weather in general. Could pair with a jean jacket or wear it as is!! - Same with sneakers or sandals!" — KassidyS
Buy now: Zesica Women's Summer Bohemian Maxi Dress
A Button-Down Mini Dress That's Flattering on Everyone
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Why you need it: Baby doll dresses are in this season, and this is one of the best options for around $30. It comes in so many cute colors and patterns, plus sleeveless, flutter-sleeve and long-sleeve options. If we can't convince you, maybe the 4,000-plus positive ratings will.
Review: "Such a cute and comfy dress; so easy to just throw on and look cute! The green is a little darker than shown in my photos (stock photos are true to color). I got a size medium and it fits well." — Haley C.
Buy now: Mitilly Women's Summer Sleeveless Casual Pocket Dress
Nothing Says Beach Dress Like Crochet
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Why you need it: The crochet detailing on the bodice are to die for. This is one of the beach dresses on this list that can seriously up your style game. Some reviewers used it for photoshoots or weddings, but there aren't any rules against wearing it just to lounge around.
The waist is elastic for a secure fit, but it's worth noting that some reviewers mentioned that wearing a bra with this dress is tough.
Review: "Ho. Ly. Cr*p. This dress is amazing. It arrived on time and it's absolutely gorgeous. Crochet at the top and your typical dressy material at the bottom. I saw some reviews that said it's see through at the bottom which it comes double layered and was not see through AT ALL for me. It's absolutely gorgeous and super comfortable." — Jen
Buy now: Lilbetter Women's Beach Crochet Backless Bohemian Halter Maxi Dress
One Simple Sundress, So Many Colors
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Why you need it: Sometimes, you don't need a dress with bells and whistles. You just need something light and easy to toss on over your swimsuit. This breezy dress fits the bill.
Featuring spaghetti straps and a roomy fit that comes in slightly at the waist, it's the perfect dress to wear to the pool or beach. The skirt comes about halfway to the knee, so it's plenty of coverage without getting too warm.
Review: "I love this dress. Ended up getting it in 4 colors. For comparison I’m 165 5”5 and I ordered a size large. The fit was a little loose, could have went with a medium but I liked the loose fit for the summer. It’s very comfortable. The one thing to note is that the solid colors are more of a soft stretchy feel, the patterns are more of a tighter material. Either way excellent purchase!" — M Jay
Buy now: Misfay Women's Summer Spaghetti Strap Cover-Up Dress with Pockets
A Beach Dress That Feels Like Your Favorite Tee
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Why you need it: There's a lot to love about the oldest, comfiest T-shirt in your dresser drawer, but the aesthetic appeal probably isn't on the list. This cute dress is basically just a long, soft T-shirt, but with a knot in the hem that turns it into an adorable beach look.
Review: "I am absolutely in love with this dress. It looks so cute and I’ve gotten multiple compliments on it. I like that I can just toss it on and look so put together. This is definitely one of my favorite outfits for the summer. For reference I am 5’0 and weigh about 170 LBS and I ordered a medium." — Ashley M.
Buy now: Locryz Women's Summer Twist Knot T-Shirt Dress
A Tiered Dress With Colors That Wow
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Why you need it: Are you not seeing this? Just look at it. The style is super flattering with a long, semi-sheer skirt and a fitted waist, but the color is where this awesome beach dress really shines. The orange is showstopping, and the yellow is just as summery.
Review: "Stunning dress!! The bottom part has two layers so you can’t see through. The straps are adjustable. I would say it runs a little bit big. I usually wear a medium size but a small size would fit even better I think." — Debora
Buy now: Prettygarden Women's Causal Summer Dress
The Perfect Long Sundress For Short People
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Why you need it: It's long and flowy, but not so long that wearing heels is a necessity. For vertically challenged individuals, that's a huge plus. It comes in at the waist but the rest of the dress is loose, accentuating curves without showing every lump and bump. It also comes in nine cute colors. Black is our favorite.
Review: "Wow! As a short girl (5'0), it is nearly IMPOSSIBLE to find maxi dresses that I don't step all over, even with heels on! That's why I decided to try this one, because of the unique length and the slits. This length is absolute perfection! Plus, this is SUPER flattering." — Katizig
Buy now: Nerlerolian Women's Adjustable Strappy Split Midi Dress
A Light, Shoulder-Baring Look
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Why you need it: Sweltering summer temps don't have to mean sitting in front of a fan in a sports bra and shorts. This slouchy mini dress is super light, and the off-the-shoulder sleeves are a nice departure from plain old spaghetti straps.
Review: No reviews yet.
Buy now: Mortillo Summer Dresses for Women Halter Sundress
Elegant and Effortless
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Why you need it: Every closet needs at least one dress that can be dressed up or down. The lace detailing on the bodice of this long beach dress adds a touch of elegance, while the soft, tiered skirt keeps the beachy vibes flowing.
Pair it with a pair of wedge espadrilles and a sun hat, and you'll be set.
Review: "Love this dress. It fits beautifully, the straps are adjustable , and I love crochet design. The fabric is thin but not see thru. It’s perfect for hot summer months. I’m ordering a green one as well. I’m 5’9” and the dress hits just at my ankles." — Justyna
Buy now: Dokuritu Women's Beach Crochet Lace Maxi Dress