Summer is the perfect time to ditch the jeans and t-shirt routine and sport a lightweight summer dress, and luckily there are plenty of junior summer dresses that will keep you looking hot but feeling cool. Fabric choice is important in the summer, since you want something that is breathable and comfortable. Be sure to pick up a few classic shapes that are always in style.
Dress Fabrics Ideal for Summer
Summer is all about easy, breezy comfort, so ditch the synthetic fabrics in favor of natural, breathable textiles:
- Cotton is an obvious choice for flirty junior summer dresses because it's a natural fabric that is breathable and helps keep you feeling cool and comfortable. It also helps wick moisture away from the skin instead of trapping it like some synthetic fabrics, so you can always feel confident in your summer dress.
- Linen is another natural fabric that breathes easily and won't suffocate skin during the soaring summer temperatures. It's also super easy to care for; either you or your parents can throw it in the washer and dryer without having to worry about dry cleaning. The only down side is linen can wrinkle easily, so only sport this fabric if you'll be mostly standing, instead of sitting, in your summer frock.
- Silk is perfect for fancier summer soirees, but it still leaves you feeling cool and refreshed. Some silks are machine washable, but others have to be dry cleaned. Make sure to check specific fabric instructions.
Styles of Junior Summer Dresses
Trends may come and go, but there are a few dress styles that are always en vogue, whether you're heading to the beach, a backyard BBQ or an outdoor garden party. As you search for the perfect summer look, consider some of these popular styles.
The T-Shirt Dress
The t-shirt dress is exactly how the name sounds, a flirty spin on a classic, comfy t-shirt. This style is usually made in lightweight cotton, and you can dress it up or down depending on your mood and the venue.
If your t-shirt dress is a little on the loose side, belt it for a sexier, streamlined fit. Don't forget to add chunky statement jewelry and pair with metallic sandals or wedges for a more formal feel. To keep the look casual and classic, try it with flip flops and pull hair into a loose knot or bun for an "I just stepped off the beach" feel.
Strapless Maxi Dress
Perfect for when you want to show off your neck, shoulders and décolleté, the strapless maxi dress goes from the beach to a nighttime shindig effortlessly. Look for a maxi dress in a lightweight cotton fabric in a solid, basic color, such as black, for a casual, resort-wear vibe. Also consider a fancier silk version in a fun print for a party-appropriate look.
Short Halter Dress
An above-the-knee halter dress shows off great legs, plays up shoulders and is definitely a summer dress staple. The flirty shape works as a beach cover up when worn in simple cotton fabric or gets a little dressed up and flirty when done in linen. Skip the necklace and don dangly earrings so you can let the deep V neckline of the dress take center stage. Pair with gladiator sandals or flip flops to keep the look beachy chic, or don platform wedges for a night out on the town.
Babydoll Silhouette
The babydoll silhouette is flirty and feminine and perfect for summer. When done in cotton or linen, it's lightweight and flowy but body conscious at the same time. Babydoll dresses with spaghetti straps or cap sleeves are perfect for daytime, while strapless versions can be dressed up for a night out. Since they're flowy around the mid-section, babydoll dresses are also perfect for traveling comfortably, so be sure to sport one on your next summer road trip.
Slip on a Summer Frock
Warm weather is the perfect excuse to give your old pants and top routine the boot in favor of fun, flirty and fashionable summer dresses. Just be sure to choose breathable fabrics and use your imagination to accessorize for day and night activities.
