Shorts and tank tops may be summer staples, but there's one item that deserves heavy rotation in your wardrobe. These five styles are sure to elicit a few whistles, wows and exclamations of "Where did you get that?"
The Sunny Number That Won't Overwhelm Small Frames
Flowy, fluttery dresses usually mean a lot more fabric. On petite bodies, these can wind up making you look like a tween who raided her mom's closet. Spaghetti straps, light fabrics—like cotton—and a figure-flattering wide waistband keep things in proportion without being too revealing.
The Dress That's Just Right for Taller Heights
Hemlines can be the sartorial enemy of any tall woman: mini skirts look micro, maxi-skirts look high-waterish. That's where the midi length comes in—it shows off long legs without looking awkwardly short. Alternating thick and thin stripes accentuates your curves, while the thigh-high slit on the side plays up your modelesque legs.
The Reward-for-Working-Out Dress
You don't need Michelle Obama arms to look stunning in this orange halter (though if you do have them, this is the dress to wear). The skinny belt cinches your waist, creating an hourglass figure, while the open neckline draws attention to your collarbones, making this a delicate-yet-not-too-feminine pick for athletic builds.
The Curvy Woman's Summer Must-Have
With this breezy style, you'll be ready for barbecues, beach days and even late-July heat waves. The rayon fabric is light and breathable, and the dress is designed to be worn loosely, yet the fabric belt and V-neck give it just enough structure to make it look stylish, not potato sack-ish.
The Dress That Celebrates Pear Shapes
It's the kind of dress made for the big, kiss-the-girl scene at the end of a rom-com. The bright poppy color is captivating, and the fit-and-flare style is universally flattering. What really make this outfit shine, though, are the cap sleeves. They add width to your top half, balancing out the voluminous skirt and making your torso look oh-so tiny.
It's the kind of dress made for the big, kiss-the-girl scene at the end of a rom-com. The bright poppy color is captivating, and the fit-and-flare style is universally flattering. What really make this outfit shine, though, are the cap sleeves. They add width to your top half, balancing out the voluminous skirt and making your torso look oh-so tiny.