These 34 Romantic Dresses Are So Chic for Summer and Beyond

Elegance has been the fashion word of the year thus far, with designers across the board leaning into sophisticated design details like A-line skirts, drop waists, and hourglass shapes. I've noticed designers have put a particularly romantic spin on their summer dresses—from delicate embroidery to tiered silhouettes to sophisticated draping and classic necklines, this summer's dresses are full of whimsical details.
As I've been browsing my favorite brands and retailers in search of summer dresses to add to my own closet (there's still plenty of balmy weather ahead!), I've been overwhelmed with too many gorgeous options that I just had to share here. Each one is the perfect mix of sophistication and wearability. After all, it's still so humid, and I want to look put-together while feeling comfortable in the heat. Whether you're headed away on a late-summer vacation or simply refreshing your wardrobe before the end of the season, I think the options below are well worth considering. Here are the 34 best romantic dresses for summer, in my opinion.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

-
I Basically Live in Skirts and Dresses—These 22 Are on My Wish List Right Now
From knee-length skirts to floor-length dresses.
-
From Engagement to Holiday Parties, My Closet Is in Need of Some Fancy Dresses—32 Chic Options I'm Eyeing
Here are the standouts.
-
I'm a Bridal Stylist—These Are the Best Fall Wedding Guest Dresses Under $500
The couple is sure to approve.
-
It's Boho Chic on a Budget—29 Gorgeous Free People Sale Finds I'm Absolutely Loving
Up to 70% off!
-
Fine, I Won’t Gatekeep—These 27 Abercrombie Finds Are Too Chic to Miss (and They're All On Sale)
I can't decide which fall pick is my favorite.
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—Here Are 30 Fall Finds That I'm Hands Down Most Excited About Right Now
Get ready to answer, "Where'd you get that?"
-
Sure, Trousers Are a Fall Staple, But IMO, Dresses Are So Much Better—33 Gorgeous Styles From Mango, Reformation, and Anthropologie
An underrated essential.
-
Hold the Sandals—This Is the Shoe Trend to Wear With Dresses in September
As seen on Alexa Chung.