Warning: These dresses may cause spontaneous compliments.(Old Navy)
I've been a fashion editor for nearly two decades, which means I've written about, recommended and purchased my fair share of summer dresses. My current wardrobe includes more than 30, but it's safe to say I've easily owned at least 100 over the years. Whenever I'm asked about affordable places to find flattering frocks, I almost always recommend one store: Old Navy.
Yes, Old Navy is probably best known for basics like tees, tanks and those iconic flip-flops, of course, but if that's all you're shopping, you're totally missing out. The dress selection at Old Navy has been nothing short of top tier over the last few years, with well-made styles that look good on loads of different body types for less than $50.
The dress that I wore more than anything else last summer? This linen-blend midi that's easily dressed up or down with the right shoes and accessories. Did I jump for joy when I saw Old Navy brought it back again this summer? You bet ya! Will I be buying another color? It's already in my cart in this season's "It" color, butter yellow. I'm also eyeing this striped shirt dress that's down to $20 and will be perfect with white sneakers for weekend errands.
If you're on the hunt for dresses you'll feel good in, then Old Navy's the place to be. There are tons of great options under $25, the best of which I rounded up below.
Your summer wardrobe isn't complete without a few pieces in this airy, lightweight gauze fabric. It's breathable enough to wear on hot, humid summer days, but not as sheer as linen can sometimes be.
If you're not afraid to show a little leg, this V-neck mini will look great with sandals and simple jewelry. If, however, you're like me and rarely wear anything this short while out and about, consider grabbing this style as a chic beach cover-up. I wouldn't feel comfortable rocking a dress this short around the city, but over a bathing suit at the pool or on the boardwalk? Totally.
Choose from seven colors in sizes XS-4X.
Can't get enough butter yellow for summer? This floral print cami-style dress is a pretty take on the trending color. The dress is available in regular, tall and petite lengths, the straps are adjustable and there's smocking at the bodice to accommodate different bust sizes.
More than 1,500 shoppers have given this style a five-star rating, with many commenting on how flattering it is.
"I feel so cute in this dress. It's so comfortable and it has pockets," one fan shared.
Another added, "Cute, flattering dress! Will be perfect for hot summer days."
P.S. If butter yellow isn't your color, there are nine others to choose from.
A dress that's just as stretchy and comfy as your go-to tank top? Yes, please! This figure-flattering find is made from cotton with a hint of spandex, so it hugs your frame in all the right places. The maxi length also makes this pick super versatile. For a casual look, pair this dress with flat sandals and a denim jacket. When you want to dress it up, throw on heels, an elegant shawl and some statement earrings.
"So perfect, so comfy, but natural and the material makes it look classy! Great quality and very good sizing," one customer commented.
There are five colors to choose from in sizes XS-4X, and the dress is machine washable.
When the temps rise, trade in your favorite button-up for a stylish shirt dress. This striped Old Navy pick is perfect in every way, thanks to the not-too-short length and the loose, flowy fit around the midsection. The natural cotton fabric is breathable, and there are four other colors up for grabs.
With over 1,500 five-star reviews, it's safe to say this mini is a fan favorite. One person called it a "staple in my closet," while another said it was "comfortable and classic!"
If you've never worn a shirt dress, make this the summer that changes. They're an easy way to look polished and put-together with minimal effort. Pair this dress with a low-heel sandal, minimal jewelry and bold lip, and you've got a go-to warm-weather outfit.
If you need an extra special piece to wear to a baby shower, bridal shower or graduation, don't wait to grab this darling design while it's 50% off. The flutter sleeves add a feminine touch, while the slit shows off just the right amount of leg. In addition to the blue/white print shown here, this style comes in black/white floral, red/white floral and plain black.
Not sure this silhouette will look good on you? Many shoppers praise the fit saying it's comfortable, flattering and earns them endless compliments.
"Looks beautiful, it shapes to my body nicely and I love the shoulder straps," a purchaser shared.
Shopping expert Caroline Moss dubbed this the "dress of the year," so what more do I need to say? "It's the kind of dress that slots perfectly into real life — whether you’re running late to a meeting, grabbing coffee with a friend, or realizing you forgot to buy a gift on the way to a birthday dinner," Moss wrote about this dress. "It's comfortable, flattering, and doesn’t require shapewear, strategic layering, or a complicated bra situation."
Shoppers at Old Navy are equally as complimentary; it currently has more than 800 five-star ratings.
"As a mom trying to get her figure situated after having her second baby, this dress is perfect! So flattering! Need every color!" one fan shared.
Another added, "I wore this yesterday to a work event and got so many compliments! Fits well, it's comfortable and cool for warm weather. Nicely made with a fully lined skirt."
Okay, this is definitely the best dress I've ever purchased from Old Navy... and arguably, one of the best I've ever owned period. The linen-blend material is great for hot summer weather and it's extremely durable, the midi length is not overwhelming and the neckline is sexy without being boobalicious. I wore and washed this dress a ton last year and it still looks great, which is why I'm definitely buying another this year.
And I'm not alone in my absolute adoration of this dress.
"This might be the cutest dress I've ever gotten from Old Navy — and I have a ton that I love! It's perfect — down to the trim on the straps — and it even has pockets!" another superfan shared.
Seersucker is one of those fabrics that's just synonymous with summer, so go ahead and add this baby to your cart while it's just $25. Shoppers who've snagged it say it's a "great summer dress for everyday or special events," and that it's "super comfortable and adorable."
Even better, women with different body types vouch for how flattering this frock is.
"I'm 5-feet tall, 110 pounds [and it's] very hard to find midi/maxi length dresses that aren't overpowering. I got the XS petite and fits perfect!" one short queen shared.
Another fan added, "[This dress is] super flattering on this plus size girly!"
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
