19 Flowy Dresses for One-and-Done Summer Outfits (2024)

An Aperol spritz shade plus a deep, plunging neckline equals a flowy dress that can go casual or formal. (We'll wear it both ways.)

If you're looking for a flowy dress that's still somewhat streamlined, Wiggins says this, from Gabriela Hearst, is one of MatchesFashion's most popular this season. The cashmere blend is soft and breathable (and ethically sourced), while giving the standard slip silhouette an extra dose of movement.

Rixo puff sleeves look so good dotted with hand-embroidered flowers. But this flowy dress's best feature is its open back with criss-crossing straps, the better to take in the sun.

Few designers are as committed to the notion of a perfect day dress as Ulla Johnson. From runway floral dresses to solid cotton staples like this tie-waist dress, this label's pieces are always infused with daytime sensibility and romantic movement. Cinch this navy dress with its coordinating belt or let it drape on its own.

This may be a Resort 2023 dress, but you'll want to order it now. Agua by Agua Bendita's dresses always tap into romantic flourishes like floral prints and ruffled hems, but they never feel overly saccharine. This time, it's thanks to the deep-V neckline and understated flowy skirt.

In formal gowns and everyday sundresses, Tove has a knack for turning practical drawstrings into artful details. In addition to the most gorgeous, vaguely Grecian movement, this dress's fabric is also unbelievably soft and breathable.

The Oula Company just arrived at Nordstrom with a lineup of striking prints and structured-yet-relaxed summer dresses. Designer and chief executive officer Erika Dalya Massaquoi specializes in pieces crafted from globally-sourced Ankara prints, like this work-to-weekend shirt dress.

Tiered skirts are a fixture in the breeziest summer dresses. Paired with a botanical print, this Cara Cara version injects OOO energy into an everyday outfit.

Some of the best flowy dresses are the most understated, like this asymmetric tiered dress from Cuyana's latest capsule. Grab a straw bag and a walkable sandal, and you have a summer weekend uniform.

Inject some fresh energy into your work dress rotation with Lisou's zesty printed dress. The long sleeves and collarbone-skimming neckline are suited to any dress code—just add pumps or a solid ballet flat.

From fashion week to fashion insiders' closets, kelly and citrus greens are everywhere. Of all the ways to wear it, we're partial to a tiered sundress with impulse-order tags.

Here's a flowy dress that shows some skin but still keeps you covered, with smocked detailing along the ribcage for extra comfort. It saves the best for the back, with an elegant, plunging V-shape cutout.

Whichever beach town is on your summer itinerary, you'll want to pack this nautical relaxed dress. The shell-print Johanna Ortiz piece is another of Wiggins' favorites for the summer (and it's only available on MatchesFashion).

A flowy effect isn't limited to A-line and empire-waist dresses. Oversized shirt dresses, like this cabana stripe rendition from Frankie Shop, have the same relaxed appeal and easy movement. Wear it buttoned all the way up with sandals, or button it halfway over summer jeans and a white tank.

A dress in a romantic shape and soothing hues is Dôen's area of expertise, at least in the eyes of this brand fanatic. Wear the ties as shown here, or tie the top string behind your neck to create a halter effect.

Merlette landed on fashion's collective radar with voluminous, tiered dresses, but this new addition has the same undulating movement in a body-skimming silhouette. It's all in the juxtaposition between the smocked, drop-waist bodice and the chiffon skirt—all the better for twirling.

From the bow-topped straps to the eyelet skirt tiers, this Alice + Olivia dress is made for sipping drinks and taking in the sunset—preferably from the balcony of a Lake Como villa.

This halter maxi's shade coordinates perfectly with peony season (bouquet not included). The back includes charming criss-cross straps and a keyhole cutout, so consider ordering an under-the-radar sticky bra with it.