These Amazon Dresses Got the ELLE Editor Stamp of Approval

Elle

8 hours ago

Summer dresses are a perennial wardrobe essential—but this year, we're focused on the styles that marry ease with polish. From crisp linen midis to modern silhouettes worthy of rooftop dinners, the best finds don't always require a boutique appointment. Amazon may not be your first stop for fashion, but with brands like Staud, Simkhai, and Frame in the mix, it's quietly become a go-to source for securing summer staples.
To make things easier, ELLE editors combed through thousands of dresses to spotlight the guilt-free options to shop now—whether you're heading to a beach weekend, RSVPing to a garden wedding, or just dressing for the heatwave. And yes, many of them ship fast.
'An easy ruched dress like this option from Madewell will never steer you wrong. It makes an easy, one-second outfit feel like an elevated choice for the day. And for under $150, I'm sold.'—Dale Arden Chong, senior fashion commerce editor
'NIA's Santal Dress is a cult favorite that's perpetually sold out for a reason. Made from a lightweight jersey fabric with a flattering ruched bodice, and yes, pockets, it pays for itself in cost-per-wear alone.'—Claire Stern Milch, digital director
'Preppy chic meets the beach in this polo dress that can easily be worn as a swimsuit cover-up.'—Alexis Bennett Parker, commerce content lead
If your calendar is filled with weddings this summer, add this pastel number to your wardrobe lineup.
We love a dress that can go the extra mile. This one will stun at any summer festivity and it can be worn to the office for a chic workwear update.
'When I'm last-minute shopping for a trip, I like to look for easy dresses that I can throw on and not think too much about. This one is perfect.'—Alexis Bennett Parker, commerce content lead
Once ELLE editors spotted Sarah Jessica Parker wearing this elegantly draped Norma Kamali Diana Gown while filming season 3 of And Just Like That, it went straight into our Amazon carts.
'I like to bring a bit of fun with me on beach days. Luckily, this dress comes with a playful print that matches the energy of the summer.'—Alexis Bennett Parker, commerce content lead
Breezy cotton maxi dresses, like this Jenni Kayne number, are the first thing to reach for during a heatwave.
With floral embroidery, this is the dress to wear to all of those special plans on the calendar.
This airy white maxi makes the perfect backdrop for all the boho statement belts, studded bags, and jewelry pieces that ELLE editors are loving for summer.
We can't get enough of Anine Bing's effortlessly chic styles on Amazon, including this striped knit dress that would look great on vacation.
'Drop-waist dresses are a must-have this summer, and this one comes in an on-trend butter yellow hue.'—Alexis Bennett Parker, commerce content lead
Here's a striped shirtdress from Vince that has summer office outfit written all over it. But styled with flip-flops and a raffia bag, it would be well-suited for weekend brunch.
There aren't too many things as timeless as Levi's denim, especially classic styles like this shirtdress.
We love versatility. ELLE editors appreciate this one for its ability to stun during any occasion.
Frank & Eileen's ultra-versatile T-shirt dress turns a quick grocery store run (or takeout pick-up) into a stylish outing.
'I bought this $25 tank dress a few years ago, and it's been scoring compliments ever since. Seriously, I've reached for this on so many occasions where I didn't know what else to wear—and it's always a good choice.'—Meg Donohue, associate fashion commerce editor
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