If you're over 40, these are the very best summer dresses from Canadian brands — 25 best picks for every shape, style and price point

Yahoo

20 hours ago

Finding the perfect dress in your 40s (and beyond) can feel like a balancing act between trying to achieve style and maintaining comfort and coverage. But it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly find, something special for an upcoming event or a new casual go-to, we've got you.
Many Canadian brands have plenty of stylish, age-inclusive (and size-inclusive!) options that don't sacrifice comfort or confidence. Think your favourite retailers like Reitmans, RW&CO, Simons, Aritzia, Suzy Shier and more.
From the best under-$50 frock to the perfect mother-of-the-bride pick, we've rounded up the top dresses for women over 40 — all from brands you'll feel proud to support. Keep scrolling to dive into our ultimate guide to figure-flattering, feel-good pieces for every body and budget.
In this guide: Best dresses for coverage & confidence | Best dresses on a budget | Best dresses for occasions | Best dresses for travel | Best casual dressesWhat's more flattering than a dress with a cinchable waist? This flowy midi boasts a silky finish and an adjustable drawstring that lets you define your shape for a confident fit. This bright blue frock will make getting dressed feel effortless.
This midi dress has a very flattering fit-and-flare silhouette with short flutter sleeves and a mock neckline. So, if you're looking for coverage in multiple places, this chic number is a great staple to add to your closet. It can easily go from day to night.
More than 140 Simons shoppers have this dress in their carts, and for a good reason. It's a simple yet timeless unlined dress with a ribbon belt that can be tied to the side for a wrap-style look (perfect for camouflaging midsections, too!).
This chiffon midi dress is super flattering, especially if you want a little extra coverage on your arms. It has a built-in flowy cape that will drape over your shoulders, allowing you to keep covered without feeling too bulky.
This classic dress is made from soft and stretchy crepe jersey and features a wrap-style skirt that ties at the waist to define your shape. The batwing sleeves offer some coverage for arms, and the above-the-knee length hits the perfect spot. It's polished and super easy to wear.
This shift dress delivers a flattering fit with a cinched waist. It has long sleeves, a buttoned upper and embroidered details, making it perfect for casual wear.
This 100 per cent cotton midi dress is as easy as summer dressing gets. It has a relaxed fit and airy feel, perfect for hot days. And the V-neck is perfect for showing off your necklace stack. You can dress it up with wedges or keep it casual with your favourite sneakers.
This sleeveless, pleated maxi dress is the perfect versatile piece missing from your collection (and under $40!). You can wear this to work, on a night out or for a casual outing. It's comfy, made from stretch pleated jersey material, and it can be cinched at the waist if you want to emphasize the waist.
I personally love shift dresses and find they do a great job hiding any insecurities (especially the tummy area!). This one is simple, chic and totally versatile. That V-neckline adds some dimension, and the short sleeves provide some extra arm coverage without being overly stifling.
This button-up tank dress is an easy winner for summer. It's made from a comfy cotton-viscose twill, featuring bust darts for a flattering fit and a breezy midi length that's ideal for warm days.
This pretty pleated midi is perfect for dressing up but looking effortless. It's made from flowy printed chiffon with puff sleeves, a tie waist and an uneven hem. The shape is super flattering — perfect for a breezy summer night.
Have a summer wedding to attend? This fit-and-flare mini is an elegant choice. It's fully lined and features a flattering crew neckline to keep things modest, and short flutter sleeves for extra arm coverage.
Looking for a polished pick? This elevated midi dress has a sleek knit crepe top with a floral mesh skirt for a flattering look. The ruched neckline adds some sophistication, while the illusion hem keeps things light and summery. It's great for everything from graduations to garden parties.
Want to spice things up a bit? This one-shoulder maxi dress is the move. It has a chic asymmetrical neckline and flattering elastic waistband — perfect for summer parties or date nights.
This chiffon dress features romantic ruffled details and a flattering fit-and-flare shape. It's light and breezy, making it a safe yet chic option for warm summer weddings or events.
More like this:
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24 incredibly chic summer dresses from Canadian brands
This breezy maxi is made from 100 per cent organic cotton broderie anglaise and features a flattering crossover front. It's simultaneously comfy and fashionable — plus, it has pockets.
This sleeveless number is simple, elegant and easy to wear — talk about effortless style. It features a crew neckline and a shift silhouette, making it the kind of piece that works for every day of the week. It's lightweight and versatile, making it an easy go-to when travelling.
This light, breezy, chic dress is a warm-weather must-have, thanks to its airy silhouette. It comes with a braided belt that you can cinch at the waist — but you can also remove it if it's not your style.
To me, this dress gives off major vacation energy. It's made from breathable washed linen and features an A-line silhouette. It's flowy, comfortable and makes a great throw-on piece with a pair of sandals.
Doesn't this dress give off major vacation vibes? Its A-line silhouette, asymmetric tiered design and bold leaf print are perfect for warm-weather getaways. The lightweight fabric will keep you cool, and the side slit adds some movement.
This maxi dress is great for throwing on after the beach, on pool days or heading to your local farmer's market. It's made from slightly crinkled 100 per cent cotton gauze, and its flared fit and tiered ruffles add style without even trying.
If you love the look of denim but want something lighter, this shift dress will instantly become a summer essential. It's breathable, stretchy and gives off a casual-cool vibe.
This linen-blend button-down is the kind of dress you'll be reaching for all summer long. Its breezy material, handy pockets and removable waist tie make it comfortable and casual. Wear it to patio lunches, work and everything in between.
This utility-style dress is made from crisp, non-stretch poplin and features a shirt collar and button-down front for a casual look. It also has a self-tie that allows you to cinch the waist and change up the silhouette.
This dress boasts a flattering cap sleeve and V-neckline, and it's the ideal throw-on-and-go piece. Unlined, soft and breathable, it's great for staying cool on those extra hot days. The mid-thigh length keeps things casual — perfect for running errands or grabbing lunch.