30 Best Target Dresses to Wear This Summer
All the sundresses one could possibly need, ahead.
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The excitement about summer fashion that begins as soon as the first over-70-degree day rolls around inevitably dims when the realities of the season set in. Long, hot commutes to the office, temperamental air conditioning and general humidity all conspire to make getting ready in the morning a less-than-inspiring activity. That's where these cute and breezy Target summer dresses come in.
With options for almost every occasion, the Target dress section will have you looking polished in a pinch — crucially, without sacrificing comfort or costing more than $70. Whether you're shopping for travel dresses, work outfits or wedding guest attire, your wallet will thank you for turning to Target.
Below, we've gathered the best dresses from Target for every summer affair. No matter the occasion, these 30 fashion finds are up for the task:
This Target midi dress is perfect for a casual summer day with a simple, ballet-inspired silhouette and stretchy jersey fabric. Swap your flip-flops or slides for heeled sandals, add a stand-out jewelry piece — and voila! It's set for dinner and drinks, too.
Lean into summer 2024's country club aesthetic with this preppy midi dress from Target. Offered in crisp white and subtle blue pinstripes, its simple silhouette brings an air of quiet luxury without costing a small fortune.
Diane von Furstenberg for Target Collared Sleeveless Sweaterknit Midi Wrap Dress
Target's latest designer collaboration is with Diane von Furstenberg, a New York fashion icon and originator of the wrap dress. Shop fast, and you can score limited-edition dresses in her signature silhouette for under $50 at Target.
"Run, don't walk, to the nearest Target and grab this hidden gem! The fabric is soft, comfortable and thick enough not to be see-through yet still cool on a hot day," one reviewer wrote of this top-rated Target T-shirt dress.
The beachy design of this Target sundress features a breezy midi-length skirt and a tied halterneck top cut from breathable cotton poplin fabric — and did we mention it has pockets, too?
This simple slip dress feels a whole lot more sophisticated thanks to an asymmetrical silhouette and sleek fabric draped on the bias. Adjustable straps ensure it offers just the right amount of coverage.
Lightweight plisse upgrades this otherwise simple midi dress. Stick with minimalist jewelry to keep it sophisticated for work, weddings or a fancy dinner date.
Target's inclusive size range is one of the biggest draws of its dress section. The retailer's plus-size fashion line, Ava & Viv, has smart, budget-friendly styles for under $40, including this ruffle-trim wrap dress that'll earn endless compliments.
The best summer dresses from Target are those that work for multiple occasions and feel comfortable in hot weather. This elevated shirtdress checks both boxes with its lightweight, stretchy fabric and cinched waist. Style it with white sneakers for an easy summer outfit.
This Petal and Pup dress is great for the special occasions on your social calendar this summer: weddings, date nights, birthdays — you name it. The high neckline and mid-thigh length show off plenty of skin while allowing for a strapless bra or shapewear.
Nothing says summer like a white eyelet dress, especially when it's styled with your go-to summer sandals, a cute woven bag and a denim jacket for when temperatures dip in the evening. This $40 option from Target features adjustable criss-cross straps and a smocked back for an even better fit.
From tennis to pickleball, this workout dress has built-in shorts and supportive criss-cross straps for just the right mix of on-court performance and off-court style.
Target reviewers rave that this cotton gauze shirtdress can be worn as a dress, tunic and swimsuit cover-up, making it a great addition to any suitcase. "This is my favorite Target purchase in a long time," one reviewer wrote. "The gauze material is so soft and lightweight, the pockets are amazing, and it's so cute on."
While this August Sky midi dress can be dressed up for a baby shower or birthday brunch, it can just as easily be dressed down for a backyard BBQ or picnic. The dainty floral print and wrap dress silhouette are versatile for many settings.
You don't need to go full cowgirl to take part in summer 2024's Western fashion trend. A simple denim dress like this one nods to the aesthetic without feeling costume-y, even when styled with cowboy boots.
Cut from crisp cotton poplin, this easy-going mini dress works in hot weather. This oversized artsy floral print is the perfect pick for a baby shower or summer soiree.
"This is such a cute, comfy dress. I bought it in one color, and now I have all four," one Target reviewer said. "It is great [for] running errands with a cute jean jacket, sandals or a pair of tennis shoes. It could be a fun vacation dress, beach cover-up or casual around the house."
Few Target dresses are more versatile than this rib-knit maxi dress that comes in seven summery shades, ranging from basic black, white and grey to vibrant pink and yellow. Priced at $20, you could even grab a couple.
We suspect compliments will start rolling in as soon as you step out in this maxi dress. The large floral print and lightweight, mesh-like exterior layer make it an excellent choice for a destination wedding or dinner date somewhere hot and humid.
Whether shopping for everyday work outfits or beach-friendly styles, this versatile linen shirt dress is just what your summer wardrobe ordered. Reviewers said that it's both "the perfect summer work dress" and "a great travel dress."
Sarah Maberry is a fashion and luxury commerce editor at Hearst Magazines, where she covers fashion, beauty and pop culture. A seasoned trend forecaster and fashion historian, she analyzes viral products and trends on a deeper level, helping readers determine what's worth buying. When she’s not writing for ELLE, Harper’s BAZAAR, Town & Country, Esquire, Cosmopolitan and other publications, she can be found roaming the Museum at FIT (her alma matter) or sewing her own couture while she binge-watches reality TV.
Elly Leavitt is a fashion and luxury commerce editor with over seven years of experience covering fashion and design. Her writing can be found in Harper’s BAZAAR, ELLE, Town & Country, Esquire, ELLE Decor, and more. Previously, she was an editor at Domino magazine. You can probably find her in line at Trader Joe's. You will never find her at SoulCycle.
