There’s an art to everyday dressing in the summer heat. For me the best styles have to be easy to wear (no bells and whistles), breathable, and move with me throughout the day into evening. This summer, I refined my rotation of dress silhouettes that transcend trend or cliché. Each one is an exercise in thoughtful design, nuanced detail, and subtle distinction. These aren’t simply “throw-on” dresses (though, I have my share of those) but foundational pieces that read as intentional, even when worn with minimal effort.

These are the go-to summer dress styles that I’m wearing and they’re anything but basic.

The Bubble Hem Midi

The bubble hem is a silhouette long associated with high-fashion volume and runway nostalgia because it brings a sculptural dimension that immediately sets an otherwise simple dress apart. And the strapless bodice of this look creates a clean, architectural line, while the midi length keeps it grounded and wearable. It’s an unexpected shape for daytime dressing, which is exactly the point. I let the silhouette do the talking and styled this look with more minimal accessories. I was so excited to take this dress around town, pairing it with mixed metallics in the form of a silver mary jane flat and silver and gold jewelry for contrast.

Shop this Style: OAK + FORT Strapless Bubble Hem Dress – $85

THE TIERED MAXI

The tiered maxi dress is a bold commitment to volume and movement. It’s such a fun silhouette with just enough drama. The tiered structure creates a sense of fluidity with every step, lending the dress a sculptural softness that feels both relaxed and intentional. It really channels an undone elegance that works just as well for day as it does for dinner. It can liven up any closet with texture and, if you’re someone who leans more toward a neutral palette, like me, it adds an unexpected pop of color for a weekend getaway or summer vacation. I styled this hot pink tiered maxi with the JW Pei Hana mini tote and a woven Raffia fedora hat for balance as well as a pair of neutral leather Jimmy Choo Margo 80 heel sandals for added height and to lengthen the leg so as not to drown in the silhouette.

Shop this Style: SNDYS x REVOLVE Peaches Linen Dress – $98

The Button Front Midi 

I come back to this cream button-front midi year after year. The body-hugging silhouette and clean vertical line of buttons offer quiet structure with a hint of edge, while the sleeveless cut keeps it effortlessly undone and weather appropriate for summer outings. Equal parts minimalist and sensual, it’s the kind of dress that adapts to your mood. I styled it with a hand knit ring handle handbag from a local designer to add a bit a artisanal charm, texture and pop of color. The minimalist Harlien flat sandal from Steven New York tops off the look for day but it can easily transition into the evening with a heeled mule. 

Shop this Style: Sézane Fabiola Dress – $150

The Linen shift Mini

The linen mini is my go-to on those unbearably sweltering summer days. Far from the rustic simplicity often associated with linen, this version is all about precise tailoring and modern minimalism. Clean lines, elevated fabric weight, and a hem that hints at sophistication rather than playfulness make it a considered choice. It’s the kind of dress that speaks softly but with clarity and works every summer in tried and true neutral tones. I paired mine with neutral Steven New York Harlien flat sandals, JW Pei Hana mini tote and a neck scarf for a pop of color and contrasting texture. It’s giving elevated but with minimal effort (and fabric) for those scorching summer days.

Shop this Style: Reformation Aubree Linen Dress – $98

The STRAPPY Smock 

At first glance, the strappy smock dress may seem pared back but therein lies its power. It channels the sleek sensuality of ‘90s-era minimalism (a golden fashion era, IMO), but with the modern benefit of impeccable cut and fabric drape. The barely-there straps and liquid silhouette offer a whisper of glamour that feels intimate and this asymmetrical style is a more contemporary take. The best part of wearing this style is its lightweight nature that catches the breeze without compromising coverage on days when I don’t want to bear a lot of skin. And a simple addition of an open or tied button up or lightweight knit draped at the shoulders can provide some elevation with simple layering for this style. I finished my casual look off with a chunky Chloë Phoebe Philo era flat and fringe detail Jen & Co. Madison tote bag.

Shop this Style: DISSH Alma Bitter Choc Asym Linen Midi Dress – $179