The 16 best denim dresses for summer 2021
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Summer fashion often means lighter clothes, sandals and lots of bright colors, but one staple we just can’t get enough of is denim dress. If you’re apprehensive to try the summer must-have, don’t be. Denim dresses are usually made from a softer fabric than jeans, are lightweight and super comfortable to do everything from daily chores to going out to lunch with friends on the weekend.
We’ve rounded up 16 of our favorite denim dresses for the season to make your summer shopping a little easier. Best of all, there's plenty of options for petite and plus sizes.
Top-rated denim dresses
Denim Long-Sleeve Distressed Jean Dress
Denim Long-Sleeve Distressed Jean Dress
$34.99
AMAZONBe prepared to turn heads in this tasseled tunic dress from Amazon. Choose to rock it with a bold belt or fun sandals, or throw your favorite leggings underneath for a more modest look.
Denim Short-Sleeve Shirt Dresses
Denim Short Sleeve Shirt Dresses
$35.99
AMAZONThis short-sleeved denim dress has a distressed wash, cap sleeves and a full button-down front. It also comes in five flattering colors varying from white to army green and black. Note: Many reviewers said the dress runs small, so size up if you're in between sizes.
FTCayanz Tunic Dress with Pockets
FTCayanz Tunic Dress with Pockets
$31.44
$36.99
AMAZONThere’s nothing better than a dress with pockets, especially if it’s as cute as this tunic denim dress. Small details like the neckline buttons and rolled sleeves are visually intriguing while still maintaining its casual style.
River Island Short Sleeve Denim Dress
River Island Short Sleeve Denim Dress
$70.00
NORDSTROMFeeling blue about blue? This lightweight babydoll-style dress was made for you. The ruffled sleeves and crisscross-tied back are perfect touches for date night.
Wild Fable Denim Pinafore
Wild Fable Denim Pinafore
$28.00
TARGETCan't get enough of your overalls? This playful light-wash dress from Target is the next best thing.
a.n.a Sleeveless Sheath Dress
a.n.a Sleeveless Sheath Dress
$16.49
$44.00
JCPENNEYThis sleeveless sheath dress is perfect for warm summer days. We love the little ties at the top of the shoulder and that the dress hits just above the knee. The light wash color is especially perfect for a beach day or a picnic in the park with your family. P.S. This dress also comes in plus sizes.
Anna-Kaci Sleeveless Blue Jean Button-Down Dress
Anna-Kaci Sleeveless Blue Jean Button-Down Dress
$40.99
AMAZONMaxi dresses are an effortless summer staple, so it's no surprise we're adding this lightweight denim number to our carts. The A-line style includes three roomy pockets and comes in five colors.
Button-Front Apron Dress
Button-Front Apron Dress
$54.00
$79.95
GAPFor those looking for a little more coverage in the front, consider this button-front apron dress from Gap. The adorable number has wider straps and a belted waist to make just about anyone achieve the perfect hourglass figure.
Who What Wear Puff Short-Sleeve Denim Dress
Who What Wear Puff Short-Sleeve Denim Dress
$37.99
TARGETYou still have some time to wear white before Labor Day rolls around, so why not do it in this trendy Target dress? Whether you're heading to an outdoor wedding or a casual bar crawl with friends, you're sure to get tons of compliments wherever you go.
Tie Sleeve Denim Babydoll Dress
Tie Sleeve Denim Babydoll Dress
$129.00
NORDSTROMAvailable in sizes up to 26W, this babydoll dress from Marée Pour Toi has flirty, modern details like tie sleeves and a square neckline.
Denim Lucie Tie-Strap Smocked Midi Dress
Denim Lucie Tie-Strap Smocked Midi Dress
$118.00
MADEWELLThis tiered midi dress from Madewell is the ultimate outfit for balmy summer days. After all, adjustable spaghetti straps, smocked bodice and a lightweight material are hard to resist.
Outland Denim Adria Dress
Outland Denim Adria Dress
$110.00
OUTLAND DENIMThe reversible Adria dress from Outland Denim is really two dresses in one. You can wear it with the buttons in the front or in the back and it'll still look just as good. The medium-wash dress goes just down to the knee and goes up to size XXL.
J.Crew Denim Shift Dress
J.Crew Denim shift dress
$39.50
$79.50
J. CREW FACTORYGo sleeveless with this J.Crew shift dress. Create an entire outfit with little-to-no effort with statement earrings or a fun hair accessory.
INC International Concepts Tiered Halter Midi Dress
INC Tiered Halter Midi Dress
$69.69
$109.50
MACY'SYes, you can also rock the ombre trend in denim. This halter-style midi dress would be a great look for any summer wedding you're invited to.
H&M Oversized Denim Dress
H&M Oversized Denim Dress
$26.99
$29.99
H&MGive yourself a little extra breathing room in this oversized H&M dress. If you prefer a more fitted look, just throw on a belt around your waist.
Free People Katie Denim Dress
Free People Katie Denim Dress
$128.00
FREE PEOPLEFeeling retro? With an exaggerated collar, pin tuck detailing and a button-front silhouette, this denim dress checks all the boxes.
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