Best Beach Dresses for Summer Days
Free People Adella Slip Dress
This stylish above-the-knee dress is perfect for those who want a flirty, feminine look at the beach. Its lightweight fabric and adjustable straps make it a versatile choice.
- Comfortable and flattering for various body types.
- Available in multiple colours with delicate lace patterns.
- Some colours can be slightly see-through.
Lands’ End Splitneck Swim Cover-Up Dress
An excellent option for a budget-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on style or comfort. This dress is perfect for casual outings or as a cover-up.
- Soft, durable cotton jersey with convenient side pockets.
- Versatile design for use as both a cover-up and everyday dress.
- The neckline may not provide the best tan lines.
Grecerelle Casual Beach Maxi Dress
This maxi dress is a fantastic choice for those who prefer a longer length. Its soft fabric and stylish design make it ideal for summer days.
- Stretchy and comfortable with two side pockets.
- Can be dressed up or down for various occasions.
- May run large and could be too long for shorter individuals.
Which beach dress is right for you?
Finding the perfect beach dress isn’t as easy as it might seem. We all want something that is not only stylish but also comfortable and durable. The right dress should enhance your beach selfies while remaining practical for a day in the sun. In our experience, the Free People Adella Slip Dress stands out as a top choice for its charming design and lightweight feel.
Essential features to consider when buying a beach dress
Fabric types
Choosing breathable, lightweight fabrics is crucial for staying comfortable during hot summer days. Materials like cotton, rayon, and linen are excellent options as they allow airflow and keep you cool. In our tests, we found that while cotton and rayon create a flowing silhouette, linen tends to offer a more fitted appearance.
Style of sleeves
For beachwear, we recommend styles like strapless or spaghetti straps, which keep you cool and comfortable. If you prefer more support, sleeveless designs are a great alternative as they won’t show bra straps and provide adequate coverage.
Length of the dress
Popular lengths for beach dresses include knee-length and maxi styles. Knee-length dresses provide a breezy look, while maxi dresses offer more coverage, making them suitable for those concerned about sun exposure. We found maxi dresses to be particularly comfortable when walking along the beach.
Quality indicators in a beach dress
Dress or cover-up?
Deciding between a regular beach dress and a swimsuit cover-up is essential. Regular beach dresses tend to be more substantial, whereas cover-ups are usually lighter and may be sheer. We recommend considering how you plan to wear the dress when making your choice.
Avoiding awkward tan lines
Choose necklines and sleeve styles wisely to prevent unflattering tan lines. Tube-top dresses provide the most even tan, while spaghetti straps are a good option. We suggest steering clear of capped sleeves and sweetheart necklines as they can lead to awkward tan angles.
The benefit of pockets
Pockets in dresses are increasingly popular and for good reason. They provide a convenient place for essentials like cash or a phone, making them practical for beach outings. We appreciated how pockets can also help keep the dress from blowing around on windy days.
Price expectations for beach dresses
Beach dresses typically range from £20 to £45, with some high-end options exceeding £50. We found that investing in a quality dress often pays off in terms of durability and comfort.
Frequently asked questions about beach dresses
Are rayon and viscose interchangeable?
A. Viscose is a type of rayon, with various other types like modal and lyocell. While viscose looks great, it may lack durability.
Do light colours work better for beachwear?
A. Though light colours may keep you cooler, darker shades absorb more UV rays, offering better sun protection.
What footwear is best with beach dresses?
A. Sandals or flip-flops are ideal for beach settings, while heels can be suitable for more formal occasions near the beach.
Our top beach dress recommendations
Best overall beach dress
Free People Adella Slip Dress
Key features: This stylish above-the-knee dress combines a crepe blend of viscose, cotton, and nylon, featuring adjustable straps, a lovely lace trim, and an asymmetrical hem.
Pros: Comfortable, lightweight, and flattering for various body types. Available in a range of colours with elegant lace details.
Cons: Some colour options may be slightly see-through, and it is hand-wash only.
Best budget beach dress
Lands’ End Splitneck Swim Cover-Up Dress
Key features: This knee-length cotton jersey dress features a horizontal striped design and button closure, making it both stylish and practical.
Pros: Soft and durable with side pockets, it can serve as both a swimsuit cover-up and an everyday dress. It’s also machine-washable.
Cons: The neckline design may not be ideal for achieving an even tan.
Noteworthy option
Grecerelle Casual Beach Maxi Dress
Key features: This maxi dress is made from a blend of rayon and spandex, featuring spaghetti straps and a dramatic side slit.
Pros: Soft, stretchy, and comfortable, with two side pockets for convenience. Can be styled for various summer occasions.
Cons: It tends to run large and may be too long for those on the shorter side.