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I'm a Plus-size Travel Writer, and These Are the Dresses I'll Be Wearing All Summer Long
Most importantly, I need to feel good wearing it. That means it needs to have the right fit and feel great against my skin. These plus-size summer dresses check all those boxes. Whether you're looking for one-and-done travel outfits, something to wear for a special event, or a fresh find to spruce up your closet, these picks are the ones I'll be reaching for all season long. $100 $60 at Lanebryant.com
This blue floral midi dress is a recent favorite of mine. It's available in both regular and petite plus sizes (a win if you're shorter like me), and I especially love the soft, stretchy smocked bodice that makes it so easy to wear on long flights or full travel days. The sweetheart neckline and flutter sleeves add to the charm—those sleeves especially make this one feel extra summery. Need it fast? Over at Amazon, you can score a similar style for $42 and have it at your doorstep in two days.
Quince's tiered maxi dress in Vermilion Red is simple in the best way and always makes me feel bold when I'm on the go. Made from 100 percent organic cotton, it's breathable and airy, with a gathered waist that offers shape while still keeping things relaxed. The deep pockets are incredibly useful for stashing travel essentials, and the V-neck and short sleeves look great in every photo.
Planning active adventures this summer? This high-neck mini dress is a game-changer. Available in sizes up to 3XL, it includes built-in mid-thigh Booty Boost shorts that help prevent chafing (a big deal for me!). I usually wear separate shorts under dresses, so having them built in is a huge plus. It's made from a breathable, sweat-wicking fabric and comes in five fun colors—including tulip pink and deep azure blue—that are perfect for summer.
This brightly-hued dress is pure joy to wear. The V-neck and roomy sleeves give it an easy silhouette, and the black rainbow stripe version is just one of many playful prints available. I love that it's wrinkle-resistant; it comes out of my suitcase ready to wear. For a casual travel day, this one's a staple.
The Torrid Challis Maxi Dress always helps me feel put-together with zero effort. The bold print and contrasting pattern detail at the hem make it feel more elevated than your average maxi. The V-neck and flutter sleeves are lovely, and the elastic waist helps it stay in place while still feeling breezy. Just a note: there's not much stretch in the fabric, so I recommend sizing up for extra room, or opting for this stretchier option from Amazon that has a similar look to it.
When I want to feel comfy while still putting on a fun, playful look, I reach for this colorfully printed stretchy cotton dress. It has a relaxed, lounge-friendly fit that still works great out and about. The smocked bodice and flowy skirt give it polish, and the stretchy cotton fabric comes in clutch while traveling in the summer. $90 $54 at Lanebryant.com
My ultimate 'resort vibes' dress, the beaded knot detail at the halter neck adds texture, and the easy jersey fabric is soft and flowy without clinging. The Black Leaves and Brown Palms prints both scream summer vacation in the best way, but if you're craving brighter colors, this playful alternative is a must.
A true mood booster in a dress, this beachy piece is made out of a soft, stretchy fabric. It's one of those all-day-wear pieces that doesn't need a break-in period. It has side pockets, a relaxed fit, and comes in cheery prints like Black Lemon and Yellow Flower.
My go-to when temps climb, this linen dress has such a crisp and clean look that I love. It's breathable, versatile, and made from European linen with thoughtful details like shell-style buttons and subtle pleats. I love wearing it as a beach cover-up.
Looking for something a little extra? This scallop-trim mini dress has frilly details that make it fun to pair with elevated accessories for a nice dinner, or sneakers and a denim jacket for everyday wear. It's wrinkle-resistant, making it perfect for packing. I love the midi length, but this ankle-grazing option is great if you prefer more coverage. $100 $45 at Lanebryant.com
Easy to throw on and go, I always feel great about myself when I wear this chic and classic style. The soft, smocked waistband adds comfort without squeezing, and I love the V-neck and shirred shoulders. It also has—you guessed it—pockets. It's available in both regular and petite plus, which is a big deal for us shorter folks, and while I love the cute green and pink shades it comes in, people who love their florals will definitely have to check out this Amazon lookalike.
Spanx's Oprah-loved AirEssentials line just got a summer upgrade. The AirEssentials Maxi Dress puts the ultra-light, four-way stretch fabric on display (psst: did you know it's actually designed to actually feel cool to the touch?). It's buttery soft and flowy, with side slits that let you move easily. I love the fennel green, but the striped version also has a nautical summer vibe. Don't be surprised if you find it so comfy, you end up wearing it on a flight.
A swingy, tiered silhouette meets a cheerful pattern in this short-sleeve dress, making it one of my summer MVPs. The empire waistline is soft and stretchy, and the flutter sleeves complete the playful vibe it gives off. It also resists wrinkles, so it's a reliable throw-on-and-go option.
This is my splurge pick—and one I always feel amazing in. The cobalt-on-ivory design is eye-catching, and the relaxed fit, loose sleeves, and wrinkle-resistant linen-viscose blend make this Marie Oliver dress perfect for destination weddings or dressy events during your travels. Shopping on a budget? You can get the same stunning print inspiration from this Ruffle Trim Linen Blend Shift Dress from Caslon, $100, or opt for this summery tank style from London Times that's on sale for 55 percent off and just $53. $90 $54 at Lanebryant.com
Short, sweet, and full of personality, this soft knit dress has flutter sleeves, a surplice neckline, and princess seams for a comfortable feel and tailored look. It pulls on easily and has pockets to keep your passport and phone within reach on travel days. The Blue Bandana and Atlantic Deep prints are both summer-ready showstoppers, but this under-$30 option from Amazon comes in a plethora of solid colorways, all with a ribbed texture for some added visual interest.
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