You may have heard of a sundress before, but you’re not quite sure what it is or if you even have one in your closet. The Cambridge Dictionary defines a sundress as an informal sleeveless dresstypically worn in hot weather. It’s typically made from breathable fabrics like linen or cotton, so you stay cool when it’s warm outside. Although the sundress may be considered informal, there are plenty of ways to dress it up or down, depending on your mood and the occasion. There are so many ways to style your sundress with shoes, accessories, and more. Keep reading to learn more about this warm-weather favorite!
Source: Halay Alex/Shutterstock.com
1. Layer with a Denim Jacket— Layer a sundress with a denim jacket by choosing a sundress in a complementary color to your denim jacket. If your denim jacket is a dark blue, you can pair it with an orange dress to complement it. If your denim jacket is in a neutral tone like black or white, you have a lot more wiggle room to experiment with dresses in different colors to act as a statement piece. Complete your look with accessories like sunglasses and sneakers for a daytime look. Pair your sundress and denim jacket with a chic pair of wedge sandals to add both height and style to your look.
2. Make It Cosmopolitan— From enjoying a picnic in the park to strolling through the city streets, wear cute casual shoes to get that relaxed yet stylish look. For a versatile day-to-night look in the city, begin with a sundress in a wrap or midi style. During the day, wear it with espadrilles or sandals and accessorize with a crossbody bag. As the sun sets over the city skyline, elevate your ensemble and swap the sandals for strappy heels instead. Add statement jewelry and a clutch to polish off your look for a chilly city evening as the breeze rolls in between the skyscrapers. Then, layer up with a shawl or cropped jacket for cooler evenings.
3. Bring It to the Beach — Bring your sundress the next time you head to the beach. Wear a sundress in a pastel hue or vibrant print as you layer it over your swimsuit for that easy transition from sunbathing to strolling along the beach. Amp up the beach look with strappy sandals or flip-flops and a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and eyes from the sun. Carry all of your beach items in a woven tote bag, and be sure to pack a beach towel and sunscreen! Consider tying a colorful scarf around your bag or your waist to add a bit of seaside flair.
Source: Halay Alex/Shutterstock.com
4. Take It Back in Time— Style a retro or vintage-inspired sundress featuring classic details like floral prints, polka dots or an A-line silhouette that’s reminiscent of bygone years. Accessorize with peep-toe heels or Mary Jane flats and cat-eye sunglasses to play up the retro look. Complete your look with pearl earrings or a delicate pendant necklace. For a polished touch, add on a clutch or structured handbag.
5. Give It Sporty Spice — Give a sundress a sporty twist or tap into the athleisure trend by wearing a sundress made from stretchy, breathable materials such as a cotton blend or jersey. Pair the sundress with athletic sneakers or slip-on shoes for a casual vibe. Try layering with a bomber jacket or cropped hoodies for cooler days. Enhance the sporty aesthetic with a visor or baseball cap and a backpack for some hands-free convenience as you go about your day. Keep the jewelry to a minimum with stud earrings or a simple necklace.
Source: Dmitry Lobanov/Shutterstock.com
6. Date Night Glam It Up — Bring on the glam for your next romantic date night that captures elegance and a touch of allure. Try a sundress with a wrap style or fit-and-flare in a feminine print or rich hue. Elevate the date night outfit with wedges or strappy heels that add a hint of glamour and further elongate your legs. Statement jewelry like a bold necklace or chandelier earrings adds sophistication and sparkle with every step. Complete your ensemble with a swipe of red lipstick on your lips for a finishing touch. Complete your date night outfit with the perfect accessory — cute purses that add a pop of color and personality!
With its charming details and lightweight fabrics, the sundress epitomizes the effortless elegance of comfort during spring and summer. Whether you’re trying to experiment with bold patterns and prints or just going for that classic, solid-colored dress, the sundress’ versatility is truly limitless. As you navigate your wardrobe these next few months, don’t sleep on the sundress. Embrace its breezy silhouette and the sunny joy of summer fashion!
