Here Comes the Sun 

by karrie marak and abby hoeffner 

Summer just wouldn’t be the same without fun warm-weather dresses! Not only do they exude feminine charm, but the light fabrics make the soaring temperatures more bearable. Another reason to love the sundress: it works well with anybody shape! Petite to plus sized boy-shaped to big busted-the sundress’s versatile structure works on them all. With hundreds of easy-going styles to choose from, there’s sure to be one that will put a spring in your step.

A few of our favorites this season are (from left): A long spaghetti strap number from Missioni, a colorful print dress from AB Studio, ELLE’s knee-length, prairie inspired white dress, the bold black and white pattered style from AB Studio and for a more formal look, BCBG’s belted satin A-line dress.

According to fashion expert Christine Stoddard, the hardest part about wearing a sundress is making it work outside a picnic or beach setting. But don't worry-there are ways to do this. For the office, wear light, cropped blazers with sundresses and structured sandals. If your office doesn't allow open-toe shoes, espradillas and cute heels in neutral colors are great alternatives to sandals. Get gorgeous for evening by pairing a sundress with metallic sandals and glamorous jewelry. Bring a simple Clopped shrug (maybe with metallic threads or rhinestone buttons) that doesn't compete with the sundress. Another option is to buy a dress with sleeves like the one shown here. For church and similar insti­tutions, wear a plain cardigan and more conservative shoes with your sundress.

Curvier women should avoid boxy cuts and ruffles, which just add unflattering bulk. A dress that's fitted at the waist and looser around the hips and thighs is the best combination. 
Dresses shown this page (clockwise from left): A casual, layered-print sundress from BCBG, ELLE's ruffled, hot-pink dress, the black print' ,It maxi dress from Old Navy and a printed leaf and zebra style from white House Black Market.