For many, this is around the time each year when we stow away the winter coats and fleece things and start shopping for new summer dresses. Since we didn't really have anywhere to wear dresses last summer, many are predicting that revenge dressing and the subsequent return to dressing up will be the norm this summer. This explains why there have been more than a few dresses popping up on my Instagram feed, many of which are pretty risqué.
These controversial dress micro-trends may not be for the faint of heart, but they will get plenty of likes on Instagram (until they can actually be worn for a fun night out). Disclaimer: If skin-exposing dresses aren't your thing, these dresses may not be your thing. But if they are, you've come to the right place. Read on to find out which controversial dress trends are heating up for summer and to shop chic options for each style.
Sheer
If it seems like sheer dresses are a thing every summer, you're certainly not wrong. Something as beautiful and breathable as a sheer dress is tailor-made for warm summer nights. Of note this summer, in particular, are sheer ruched dresses. Consider it a micro micro-trend.
Shop the trend:
Y2K
In case you haven't noticed, Y2K everything is everywhere right now, from jewelry to prints to jeans. When it comes to dresses, look out for butterflies, cowl necks, extreme cutouts, and bandage styles.
Shop the trend:
Peekaboo
The peekaboo styles that are trending may not be bar-friendly or underwear-friendly, but they're very popular right now nonetheless. Every single one that I come across is nearly sold out.
Shop the trend:
Lingerie Inspired
Given the popularity of bustiers and corsets, you may have noticed that lingerie-inspired clothing that's meant to be worn outdoors is having a moment. Just be sure to wear your dress with substantial accessories so that it isn't mistaken for actual lingerie.
Shop the trend:
Micro-Mini
The S/S 21 runways clued us into the fact that mini lengths would be the 2021 hemline of choice. After a year spent in sweatpants, we can't really be surprised about this one.
Shop the trend:
Low Back
The low-back dress is certainly one of the most beautiful of the controversial dress trends, and there are tons of options to choose from. I narrowed it down as best I could…
Shop the trend:
Next: I Just Got Rid of These 6 Summer Dresses for a Much Chicer Replacement
-
Taylor Swift Just Figured Out How to Make Pretty Summer Dresses Look More Fashion Person-yTo Via Carota with Dakota Johnson, mind you.
-
I Spend a Month in Greece Every Summer—31 Chic Zara Vacation Essentials I'm Eyeing for My Next TripNow, let's just hope it all fits in my luggage.
-
Nordstrom's Summer Dress Game Is Strong—These Are the Ones I'm Obsessed WithChic, easy, and under $250? Count me in.
-
Gigi Hadid Wore This Dress Trend With Rubber Flip-Flops in NYC, and Now, Everyone Else Will TooHavaianas never looked so good.
-
I Live for Vacation Dressing—These Are the 52 Exact Items on My Summer 2025 Wish ListI went a little crazy.
-
I'm a Linen Snob, and These Are the Only 7 Brands I Buy It FromNot all are created equal.
-
Summer Has Arrived Early at H&M—31 Vacation-Ready Items That Are Under $50Shop gorgeous swimwear, cover-ups, accessories, and more.
-
No Seriously, These 7 Elevated Summer Pieces Always Get Me ComplimentsI plan to wear these on repeat.
