It is, without a doubt, the most inherently female article of clothing on the planet. Even Marc Jacobs couldn’t pull one off. It’s comfortable, romantic, and either formal or not depending on the paired accessories. As the summer solstice finally approaches, summer dresses are a great answer to the question of what to wear.

Maybe, conversely, you don’t see it for the frilly frock. Perhaps you’re not a fan of Jane Austen novels, which is what your life will inevitably become while wearing the latter. Is there such a thing as being too girly?

Yup, there is.

But this ain’t that.

The summer dress is like the friend you can invite anywhere. They won’t embarrass you by being overly familiar in front of your boss or bore you at a party with dry conversation.

Wait, what are we talking about?

Here are a few ideas for how to rock the sum deezy – no matter the occasion.

5 Ways to Wear the Summer Dress

Work

‘Cause everyone knows blazers make it “business”.  I love the use of different patterns in the same color family to keep the look interesting. If your office frowns on colors (bummer!) get the same look using only black and white. After hours, lose the blazer.

 

Date Night

Summer dresses are date night uniforms for me. No accessories needed. They come ready for romance right out the box. Keep the heels high for extra oomph!

 

Girls Night

Hmmm…honestly, this is when I wear the dresses I love but men consider ugly. I think that’s what Solange is probably doing here. The dress itself has a great shape and the large bold stripes are very flattering on her small frame. It’s not sexy at all, but not everything has to be, right?

 

Festival Season

When sweaty strangers are brushing up against you in a sea of funk, keep it as cute as possible. If this little number is of the scratch and sniff nature, then it’s perfect for Chicago festival season.

How I Wear the Summer Dress

My look is more Backyard Bride. It says, “Marry me at gunpoint or I’ll slap you with this bright orange tote.” Just lovely, no?

 

Dress: AllSaints/ Shoes: Aldo/ Bag: Vince Camuto