Summer Dresses Under $300

Utilitarian in essence, this dress is ultra feminine with soft ruffles at the neckline and hem. A belted waist and subtle orange hue make this dress rather flattering for just about every skin tone and body type.SHOP NOW: L'Agence dress, $260

Clean up your look in a crisp white button-front dress at this summer's must-try midi length. Cinch at the waist with a woven leather belt when looking to add definition. SHOP NOW: Topshop dress, $70

Keep your look as light as a cloud in a pale-blue strapless dress. A fitted bodice creates shape (and gives support) while pleats allow for movement—perfect for anyone who wants to float about the party.SHOP NOW: Alice + Olivia dress, $297

Become a shoulder-baring goddess in a halter-style maxi dress. Shirring up top gives the illusion of a larger bust, while the draped skirt lengthens and covers with a chic concrete color. SHOP NOW: Susana Monaco dress, $130

Get effortless daytime glamour in a pretty printed dress that will have you feeling like Sophia Loren. A fitted bodice defines shape, while an A-line skirt falls away from the hips to hide any problem areas. You'll be flirtatiously sexy in this understated red and white number. SHOP NOW: French Connection dress, $218

Bold prints captivated designers this season, and Rorschach-like tropical prints have us hot for the summer look. Try a simple minidress with an eye-catching print for a contemporary take on warm-weather style.SHOP NOW: Zara dress, $80

Remember how amazing Reese Witherspoon looked in that (post-divorce) little yellow dress? Re-create that look in a summer-appropriate fabric that will have you gleaming with confidence. Pair with a cropped cream-colored leather jacket to keep the ensemble fresh.SHOP NOW: Rebecca Taylor dress, $235

Trina Turk for Banana Republic is the newest collaboration to hit stores, giving us Palm Springs–inspired prints in easy-wearing cuts. This one-shouldered dress easily goes from day to night when the weather is hot, hot, hot.SHOP NOW: Trina Turk for Banana Republic dress, $130

When the weather is hot, you want to keep it light and bright, and an all-white look is the way to go. A day-to-night peplum-skirted pencil dress is figure-flattering (yes, peplum actually hides hips!), business appropriate and white hot. Keep accessories cream-colored, or add a touch of gold to warm it up. SHOP NOW: Topshop dress, $96

Support a larger bust or prop up a smaller one with a halter-top eyelet dress. Its cotton fabric will keep you cool, and a removable halter strap gives you two styling options.SHOP NOW: Girls From Savoy dress, $158

If tailored dresses are your staple, then mix up your wardrobe with a creative abstract print that resembles a watercolor study. Pair with a classic bone- or skin-toned pump to up the business appeal or a barely there strappy sandal when headed to cocktails. SHOP NOW: French Connection dress, $178

The latest way to get a free-spirited vibe? A paisley print on a laid-back, flutter-cut dress does the trick. Try it with vintage accessories and rich-colored leather sandals for a cohesive feel.SHOP NOW: Coldwater Creek dress, $100

For off-duty ease, this small floral-printed dress is ultra feminine and will keep you cool in the heat. Pair with flat sandals or even your favorite all-purpose bootie for simplicity when headed to the farmers market or picking up the kids from school. SHOP NOW: Rebecca Taylor dress, $275