15 Fabulous Summer Maxi Dresses

While hemlines often rise with the summer temps there’s a lot to be said for a beautiful, breezy maxi dress or two in your warm weather wardrobe. Whether you want a little more coverage from the sun or to keep you warm while dining al fresco or to not worry about flashing your friends in strong winds there are many practical reasons to reach for a maxi, not to mention they’re chic! chic! chic!

There are so many fabulous maxi dresses to choose from right now, I’ve rounded up the best options from across the web, from easy sundresses to an assortment of party perfect styles:

A perfect maxi dress if ever there was one, this maxi dress has a flattering smocked panel at the back that hugs you at the waist, but can stretch if you have a big meal on vacation. Plus the skirt moves in such a pretty way as you walk! (Also comes in a sunny yellow seersucker!)
I just ordered this embroidered maxi dress and it’s giving me vintage J.Crew catalog vibes. Love!
This gorgeous floral linen dress would be perfect for a summer wedding.
I’d wear this to a chic backyard picnic.
Simple and elegant this white halter dress is on my wishlist!
I’ve said it before by the crochet number is such a winner – wear as a coverup over your swimsuit for effortless pool-to-lunch style. (The model on their site must be over 6′ tall, because I’m 5”9″ and it hits right above my ankle.)
The wrap style and flutter sleeve are super flatting on this versatile navy linen dress. It’s a great blank canvas for a variety of different looks depending on your accessories.
I love the vintage inspired drop wait of this striped maxi silhouette.
Splurgey, but this cream embroidered dress is super romantic with the tie straps, or I own and love one of these patterned maxis from a few years back (though it’s long so wear with heels or you may want to hem!)
Tiers of funky florals make this dress a fun one to dance in!
This one shoulder gown is a great wedding guest dress or for other special events this summer. (Runs a bit big so size down!)
If you love my majolica print dress I wore on Capri this one has the same vibe for a fraction of the price.
Smocking and a Liberty-style print make this sweet cotton dress an effortless summer favorite!
Wear this bohemian paisley number layered with necklaces for your next fete or fabulous vacation!