How to Buy the Perfect Sundress

Your Guide to buying the best sundresses

Overview

A sundress is the perfect apparel choice for the warmer months of the year. Not only are they lightweight and airy, but they also come in a variety of styles and colors that are perfect for any occasion. In this guide, we'll explore the different factors to consider when shopping for sundresses including fabric, neckline, fit, and more. With these tips, you'll find the perfect sundress to take you from beach days to evening events.

Key features

  1. Style - Consider the style of sundress that would best suit your needs. Sundresses come in a variety of styles, from casual to dressy.
  2. Fabric - Different fabrics provide different levels of breathability, comfort, and durability. Choose a fabric that will best suit your needs.
  3. Color - Choose a color scheme that will complement your wardrobe, and match your skin tone.
  4. Price - Determine what your budget is and select a sundress that fits within it.
  5. Fit - Make sure the sundress fits comfortably and does not restrict movement or range of motion.
  6. Silhouette - Select a silhouette of sundress that flatters your body shape and features your best assets.
  7. Accessories - Sundresses may be paired with a variety of accessories, such as jewelry, hats, and scarves, for a more stylish and complete look.

See the most popular sundresses on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Style Variety: Sundresses come in a variety of styles, from casual to formal, helping you find the perfect dress for any occasion.
  • Light & Comfortable: Sundresses are generally made of lightweight fabrics that are comfortable and cool to wear in warmer weather.
  • Durable: Sundresses are often made from durable fabrics, making them a good investment for your wardrobe.
  • Easy to Care For: Most sundresses are machine-washable, making them easy to care for and maintain.
  • Flattering: Sundresses are designed to flatter your body shape and give you a feminine look.
  • Inexpensive: Sundresses are generally relatively inexpensive, making them an affordable choice for anyone on a budget.

Cons

  • Fit: Sundresses generally have more relaxed fits than other dress styles, so there is usually not much room for adjustment. This can make finding a properly fitting sundress difficult, especially for women with large busts.
  • Size: Sundresses come in a variety of sizes, but some women may not always find the size or fit that works best for them.
  • Fabric: Sundresses are often made from light, sheer fabrics that may be more prone to snags and tears than heavier fabrics.
  • Styles: Sundresses can be difficult to accessorize, as they come in fewer styles than other dress styles.
  • Weather: Sundresses may not be suitable for colder temperatures, as they are made of lightweight fabrics and provide less coverage.
  • Durability: Sundresses are not always as durable as other dress styles. They can be prone to fading, stretching, and losing their shape over time due to their lightweight fabrics.

Best alternatives

  1. Shirt Dresses - Short or long sleeved dresses that resemble shirts
  2. Maxi Dresses - Floor-length dresses usually made of lightweight fabrics
  3. Shift Dresses - Relaxed fit dresses usually with a straight silhouette
  4. Wrap Dresses - Dresses with a wrap-style design that ties at the waist
  5. A-Line Dresses - Flattering dresses with a skirt that flares out from the waist

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Sunglasses - To protect your eyes from the sun and complete your sundress look.
  • Sandals - A comfortable shoe option for styling with sundresses.
  • Hats - To shade your eyes and keep your face cool.
  • Scarves - To add a pop of color or pattern to a sundress look.
  • Belts - To cinch the waist and add definition to a sundress.
  • Jewelry - To add a hint of sparkle or sophistication to a sundress look.

Common questions

  1. What materials are sundresses typically made out of? Sundresses are typically made from lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, chiffon, and rayon.
  2. How long should a sundress be? The length of a sundress can vary, but most styles range from mid-thigh to ankle length.
  3. What type of necklines are available for sundresses? Sundresses can usually be found with a variety of necklines, such as sweetheart, scoop, v-neck, and halter.
  4. Do sundresses come in different colors? Yes, sundresses come in many colors and prints, so there is something for everyone.
  5. Are there any special care instructions for sundresses? Yes, sundresses are generally delicate fabrics, so it is best to either hand wash or machine wash them on a gentle cycle and hang to dry.
  6. What accessories should be worn with a sundress? Accessories such as sandals, flats, wedges, and jewelry can be worn with sundresses to complete the look.

Trivia

In 2010, a sundress caused a stir when it was worn by former First Lady Michelle Obama. The dress was a sleeveless yellow chiffon Milly dress and was spotted by photographers when she attended a Broadway performance of "Memphis" in New York City. The dress was sold out in stores shortly after its debut on the First Lady. However, the dress made a resurgence in 2018 when it was again worn by the First Lady when she attended the funeral of former First Lady Barbara Bush in Houston, Texas. This time, the dress was available in stores and online and sold out pretty quickly. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.