20 best spring dresses for any occasion, according to fashion experts | CNN Underscored (2024)

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Fashion / Women's Clothes

By Sophie Shaw, CNN Underscored

Published 1:00 PM EDT, Wed April 3, 2024

What's in this guide

  • Editors’ favorite spring dresses
  • Spring floral dresses
  • Casual spring dresses
  • Fancy spring dresses
  • Spring midi dresses
20 best spring dresses for any occasion, according to fashion experts | CNN Underscored (1)

From T-shirt dresses to romantic floral frocks, spring ushers in one of our favorite seasons (fashion-wise, at least):dress season. They’re the backbone of spring and summer fashion, after all. When you’re in a pinch, throwing on a pretty, flattering dress is one of the easiest ways to look pulled-together and chic.

According to Sarah Tam,Rent the Runway’schief merchant officer, there are three main dress trends to look out for this spring. The first is muted pastels, a perennial favorite. Tam says these soft tones evoke a sense of serenity and sophistication, so they make for a natural choice when paired with the breezy, less-structured styles — like flowy dresses and skirts — that emerge each spring.

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“Modern coquette” is another trend that’s been making waves since 2023 and continues this spring. The coquette aesthetic embraces all things girly, likebow-adorned accessoriesand frilly trims. When it comes to dresses, Tam says you’ll find “unabashed femininity through uber-feminine details such as fabrics adorned with delicate florals, cascading ruffles and flutter-like sleeves.”

Last but not least, florals are an obvious yet classic choice for spring fashion. And this season, Tam says florals are anything but boring or expected. “Floral patterns take an entirely new dimension, showing up magnificently blown up into large-scale expressions of art,” she says. These oversized floral prints are an easy way to add color and pizzazz into your wardrobe without much effort.

Check out these trends and more as fashion experts and our editors share the best spring dresses to wear all season long.

Editors’ favorite spring dresses

We're all about comfort, and this T-shirt style dress provides just that. We love the soft jersey material and the cinched waist that gives it a lovely silhouette. A great option for work or a day off, the laidback style comes in 11 striped colorways, along with eight solid shades if stripes aren't your thing.

This elegant one-shoulder dress will take you through spring garden parties,weddingsand any other special occasions. The simple silhouette is surprisingly forgiving and the retro-inspired florals are even prettier in person. I can't wait to wear it to a summertime soirée. Just beware that the style runs a little large, so I would size down if you're on the fence.

We're big fans ofTarget's spring fashionthis year, including this affordable pick. As Tam noted, fashion is zooming in on florals this spring, with big, bold blossoms being favored over dainty ones. This dress taps into the trend with a flattering A-line silhouette and pastel palette.

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Spring floral dresses

Available in eight spring-ready colors and prints, including this delicate blue floral, this is the dress Danielle Carolan, content creator and podcast host, says she'll be re-wearing throughout the spring. "This might be my most flattering piece yet, I always get so many compliments!" Carolan gushes. "I love the puff sleeves, corset boning and slit."

"This Hill House Home dress, with its ballet-inspired neckline, smocked back, puffed sleeves and a sprinkling of delicate flowers, embodies both femininity and fashion-forward elegance, making it a perfect choice forspring," Tam says.

If florals aren't typically your thing, opting for a monochrome, neutral print is a great way to ease into the seasonal trend. This breezy dress features a button-up bodice, tiered skirt and tie at the waist to flatter all body types.

Casual spring dresses

An easy piece to throw on and go, this T-shirt dress can be worn as a beach cover-up or just out and about. Reviewers love how soft and lightweight it feels, as well as how it drapes on the body. Of course, we'd be remiss not to mention its convenient pockets too.

This versatile sweater dress is from Target's collaboration with Diane von Furstenberg. The designer popularized the wrap dress silhouette at her own label in the 1970s, and now the style is making a comeback. The Twig print is one of DVF's signatures, and you can get the look for less than $50.

"I have this puff-sleeve midi dress from Abercrombie in multiple colors," says Carolan. "The puff sleeves paired with a cinched waist are so flattering and it works well with sneakers, sandals or even a heel."

And if you love the style but are looking for something dressier, it also comes in a dreamy organza gown complete with a pretty bow.

Denim dresses are one of the big trends this spring, and we love this modern take. The fit-and-flare shirt dress has an asymmetrical hem (perfect for showing off some cute boots!) and comes in a classic blue wash. And a word of advice from reviewers — you'll want to size down for its roomy fit.

A practical option for work or play, this dress plays with the coquette trend that Tam loves without being super obvious. The ruffled sleeves and hemline add a feminine touch, while the crisp poplin gives it a classic feel.

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Fancy spring dresses

Tam says this long-sleeved dress is perfect for cooler spring temperatures. The flattering V-neck, tiered skirt and muted palette give it a feminine flair for any occasion.

This pastel pink dress is loaded with personality thanks to the fringe hemline. It's one of those pieces that's sure to be a compliment magnet thanks to its simplicity, plus that little touch of something extra.

Flutter sleeves and a curve-skimming silhouette make this a super-pretty pick for a spring special occasion. While it looks like silk, the satin fabric is actually made from a material derived from wood pulp, making it a sustainable choice too.

This pleated dress drapes beautifully, enhanced by the long tie that trails along the back. The double strap detail also adds a bit of extra support for larger busts (and boob tape is always a great option to feel extra secure with a backless style like this).

Available in five spring-ready shades (which are all selling quickly, I might add), this beautiful satin dress is simple at first glance, but has subtle details that make it special. Namely, it features a plunging, cowl back that adds a sexy touch. Plus, it comes in petite, regular and tall sizing, so everyone can find the best fit.

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Spring midi dresses

Tam says this silk midi dress is a popular style among Rent the Runway customers. "This ALC dress captivates with its statement-making, large-scale floral print, guaranteeing to set you apart at any event," she says.

Breezy and effortless, this semi-sheer, lined dress strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and polished. The silk and cotton blend makes it a perfect weight for spring.

"I'm obsessed with this chic dress from Helsa, because I love a drop waist, especially with a sweetheart neckline," Carolan says. We can see this styled with top trends like cowboy boots or Mary Jane ballet flats for a chic ensemble.

This denim midi dress comes in white and a light wash. It has a utilitarian feel with patch pockets on the chest and a button front. Style it with sandals or sneakers for an easy, casual look.

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20 best spring dresses for any occasion, according to fashion experts | CNN Underscored (2024)

FAQs

What type of clothes do we wear in spring season? ›

Cotton, linen, and rayon are good choices for spring attire. These breathable materials allow airflow to keep you cool. Pairing cotton tops with jeans or linen pants creates casual spring outfits.

How should I dress for spring? ›

A straight skirt, fitted top, and a blazer is a great outfit formula for the spring. Another outfit formula that will help you feel less frazzled in the wind is a cozy sweater, fitted pants, and a coat or jacket with a waist belt. This is the Oliver sweater, Dexter pants, and Baz coat.

What should I be wearing this spring? ›

This year, everything is on the table from denim skirts to floral dresses and tailored trousers to straight-cut jeans. We're particularly infatuated with easy-to-wear dresses (especially the knitted variety) and colourful knits popping out of trench coats.

Do you wear jeans in spring? ›

Every spring wardrobe needs a few classic denim pieces like that that you can mix and match endlessly. Try a neutral colored denim like the tan pair I'm wearing below if you're wanting to try a different color than blue but don't want to choose a bold color yet.

Should you wear jeans in spring? ›

Spring fashion with denim is probably my FAVORITE style to dress for. It's comfortable, casual and easily elevated by swapping a few things to dress it up a bit.

What are the four types of dress? ›

Decode the Dress Codes

If you ask someone what the dress code at their office is, they'll generally give you one of four dress codes: business professional, business casual, smart casual or casual.

What is a Rebecca dress? ›

Make moves in the Rebecca Dress, a slip silhouette that is sure to have you glistening at all of your upcoming events. The chiffon maxi features beaded fringe, placed in a geometric pattern that offers a three dimensional feel. The style is finished with a velvet tie belt and invisible zip closure.

What do you wear on top of a spring dress? ›

If the weather isn't too cold and you are just looking for a little something to keep you covered up. Another great option would be to use a long sleeved white button down shirt over your dress. You could also opt for a light jacket as well for a more causally styled look.

What should I wear at 60? ›

For durability, versatility and pure comfort, it's hard to beat the breezy sophistication of breathable fabrics like cotton, linen and chambray. Lightweight blends are a perfect base for a minimalist wardrobe for a 65-year-old woman. Beyond comfort, these textiles have a beautiful drape and flow on the body.

What should I wear at 70? ›

In your 70s, it's a good rule of thumb to avoid looking too prim, too girly, or preppy. However, it's the perfect time to experiment with arty styles like tailored sweater coats, wide-leg pants, unusual clutches, and colorful patterns.

What color dress for spring? ›

Like always, pastels are the ultimate go-to for spring, bringing a classic, light, and fresh charm to your wardrobe. This season, you'll be seeing a lot of lilac, light yellow, and sky blue. Lilac and sky blue, often paired with neutral looks, offer a subtle pop of color.

What is spring casual attire? ›

As the weather gets nicer it's time to get your wardrobe ready for spring using light, airy fabrics in lighter colors. Keep your outfit on the casual side with custom-tailored chinos or a pair of well-fitting jeans. Add a few well-chosen accessories and you're good to go.

What clothes do we wear in each season? ›

1) Different seasons have different types of clothes. For example, the summer season has summer clothes. 2) Winter season has woolen clothes or clothes which keeps our body warm. 3) The rainy season has clothes which protect us from the rain.

What color do people wear in spring? ›

A Spring seasonal color palette is full of warm and bright shades like poppy red, daffodil yellow, and tangerine orange. Some of the neutral Spring colors are ivory, cream, camel, and clearer browns. Spring clothing colors are happy, joyful colors!

Do you wear clothes in a hot spring? ›

Soaking Etiquette

Showers are required before entering the pools. Wear proper swim attire. No street clothes, underwear, pajamas, sweats or anything deemed inappropriate as swimwear by staff is allowed in the pools. Remove all jewelry or it will tarnish.

What can kids wear in spring? ›

Dress your kid in a long-sleeved T-shirt, which individually provides good protection against the sun and which can be warm enough under the shell jacket / fleece jacket. Keep in mind that the sun's rays are harmful all year round and even on cloudy spring days, the kid's skin needs to be protected.

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