Best cotton summer dresses is a time for BBQs, brunches and booze-fueled beach days—and a chic cotton dress can help you navigate all of them. Lightweight and breathable, the best cotton summer dresses are the ultimate in comfort. Look for maxi silhouettes with roomy pockets, as well as smocked styles that offer a structured fit. If you want a more feminine and flirty option, try a mini length with spaghetti straps or a sweetheart neckline. Adding a little stretch to the fabric can also make it more versatile, so you can wear yours for both casual and formal occasions.

Best Cotton Summer Dresses

Look for lightweight fabrics that can take on the heat, like cotton sateen, chambray and linen. Other options for a cool summer dress include muslin, seersucker and cotton poplin. And if you’re willing to spend a bit more, opt for a Tencel dress, which requires more production steps but feels softer and more fluid than cotton.

One of the best things about a cotton dress is that it can easily transition from a daytime dress to an evening gown with just a few accessories changes. A wide-brimmed hat and sandals can turn it into a picnic-perfect ensemble, while heels and a bold necklace can transform it into a dinner date dress. If you’re shopping for a cotton summer dress to wear this season, check out our favorite picks, below.