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Some days, pants aren’t the move, and that’s where button-down dresses come in. They’re more structured than T-shirt styles and a bit more polished than a breezy maxi, but they’re still just as easy to throw on and go. With so many variations and eye-catching details — spaghetti straps, short sleeve, ruffles — there’s a version for nearly every mood (and forecast).
If you want to take a break from waistbands, consider grabbing these 10 warm-weather button-down dresses. They’re just as perfect for a beach day as they are for a casual meeting or dinner with friends. Trust Us, you’ll want to wear them everywhere this season!
10 Button-Down Dresses to Wear Instead of Pants
1. Major Steal: This mini shirtdress looks way more expensive than it is. It’s linen, structured and surprisingly luxe for the price.
2. Nostalgic Feels: This spaghetti strap pick feels like something you’d spot on a ’90s Julia Roberts. It’s slightly undone and charmingly low maintenance.
3. Dot Delight: Imysty’s polka dot dress is made for weekend plans — think backyard parties with a glass of rosé and a swipe of red lipstick.
4. Denim Dreams: Skip the stiff jeans in favor of a soft denim dress. It’s the kind of easy piece you’ll want to wear three times in a week.
5. Luxe Linen: This short-sleeve mini is no doubt something a rich mom would wear to the farmer’s market. It will look especially elevated when styled with leather slides and oversized sunnies.
6. Carefree Stunner: A loose-fit mini is the dress equivalent of a beachside Aperol Spritz. It’s breezy, bright, fun and never gets old.
7. Boho Duster: This flowy maxi doubles as a duster, giving you even more ways to wear it. Toss it over a tank and shorts for a beachside dinner or button it up with gold jewelry for wealthy aunt energy.
8. Striped Maxi: This cinched-waist, corset design is giving European summer. It’s the staple you slip on when you want to look expensive without trying too hard.
9. Rainbow Retreat: Between the rainbow stripe and easy flow, this maxi dress strikes the perfect balance between playful and effortless.
10. Tropical Maxi: This breezy, printed style looks like something you scored at a fancy resort boutique. The colorful floral print and flowy, relaxed fit make it a must-have.