These 19 Fringe Dresses Are All Your Going-Out Wardrobe Needs
We can't get enough of the Nadine Merabi Lottie Teal Dress.
© Provided by Byrdie Byrdie / David HattanLooking snatched from head to toe in a bodycon dress is fun and all, but sometimes the occasion calls for something with a bit more movement. Fringe dresses are the best of both worlds, hugging your figure, while the fringe adds some action and makes you want to twirl all night long. "Fringe dresses really highlight your personality in each motion and encourage self-expression and uniqueness," says Pipatchara 'Petch' Kaeojinda, co-founder of PIPATCHARA. Fringe can be placed anywhere on the dress — on the bottom to add a subtle flair, on the sleeves to create a cape effect, and covering the entire dress if you're trying to live out your Cher fantasy (always).
We turned to two expert designers in the fringe dress world, Pipatchara 'Petch' Kaeojinda, co-founder of PIPATCHARA, and Nadine Merabi, co-founder and creative director of NADINE MERABI, to talk about what makes fringe dresses so distinct from other options and how to make them a staple in your closet — here are 20 fringe dresses that we can't wait to take out for a night on the town.
Nadine Merabi Lottie Teal Dress
Best Overall
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Nadinemerabi.Com
Our favorite elements within this NADINE MERABI teal fringe dress are the hand-embellished fringe and the 100% chiffon lining—you're getting designer materials without stepping into the thousand-dollar range. "The Lottie Teal fringe dress is a flattering silhouette that shimmers and sparkles when you move, ensuring you shine the night away," says the designer of the dress, Merabi herself. Available in a variety of sizes and colors and featuring a universally-flattering silhouette, you'll appreciate the individually hand-embellished fringed beading and sequins, as well as the iconic feather hemline.
Price at time of publish: $675
Material: 100% chiffon lining, hand-embellished teal fringeSizes: XXS-XXLColors: Teal, Pink, Gold, White
Pretty Little Thing Black Tassel Detail Halterneck Bodycon Dress
Best Budget
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Prettylittlething.Us
This 70s take on the classic LBD, complete with an open back and a halterneck, is practically begging to be added to your wardrobe. The polyester and elastane combination makes for a comfortable pair, so don't worry about how easy it'll be to get your groove on. Couple it with your favorite pair of lace-up strappy heels and some sparkly jewelry to add some dimension.
Price at time of publish: $31
Material: 95% polyester, 5% elastaneSizes: 0-12Colors: Black
Naeem Khan Fringe Cutout Mini Dress
Best Splurge
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Bergdorfgoodman.Com
The $5,995 price tag definitely makes this Naeem Khan piece an investment, but the eye-catching sustainably-curated fringe makes the purchase worth it. If you're looking to practice more sustainable shopping practices, consider adding this 100% nylon fringe dress to your going-out wardrobe.
Price at time of publish: $5,995
Material: 100% nylon, silk liningSizes: 2-12Colors: Green
Related:Our Ultimate Guide to the Absolute Best Dresses, From Minis to Maxis and More
ASOS Design Curve Bandage Fringe Mini Dress
Best Plus-Size
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Asos.Com
As it says in the product description, "all other dresses can go home." This eye-catching matcha green color will have you feeling sexy, confident, and all kinds of stylish all night long. "A fringe dress can be worn in various ways for many events, either formal or casual, and this dress is no exception," Merabi says. Wear this to an outdoor spring wedding or a night out with the girls — trust us, it'll get tons of wear. Our favorite part? The $105 price point doesn't break the bank.
Price at time of publish: $105
Material: Shell 1: 92% polyester, 8% elastane — Shell 2: 84% polyamide, 16% elastaneSizes: 12-26Colors: Green
Meshki Yasmin Wrap-Over Midi Dress With Fringing
Best Wrap
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Meshki.Us
The polyester and spandex combo was what originally sold us on this Meshki piece—it'll hug each and every curve beautifully while still offering comfort. Merabi recommends opting for the white dress, a jean jacket, and some clogs for a summery date night or the black dress and some strappy platform heels for a beach wedding.
Price at time of publish: $69
Material: 92% polyester, 8% spandexSizes: XXS-XXLColors: Royal Blue, Black, White
Micas Tassel Hem Crochet Knit Cover-Up Dress
Best Cover-Up
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Shopmicas.Com
When the temps rise, and your desire to go to the beach increases, throw this Micas crochet cover-up in your beach bag. Affordable, easy-to-style, and sexy—it fills all our requirements for a fringe cover-up dress. Choose a brightly colored swimsuit to go under this beauty.
Price at time of publish: $35
Material: 100% acrylicSizes: S-XLColors: Taupe
Olivia Von Halle Zoya Pink Silk Fringed Slip Dress
Best Silky
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Us.Oliviavonhalle.Com
Kaeojinda says it's necessary to prioritize high-end materials when it comes to purchasing silk dresses as they can be subject to damage quickly and frequently. Made from 100% natural silk, this investment Olivia Von Halle piece offers durability and longevity, transitioning seamlessly from season to season. "This is a great example of a fringe dress that makes a statement but is still simple and wearable," says Kaeojinda. "With a timeless silhouette and silk Material, it gives the sense of effortless elegance while the delicately-placed fringe adds a fun, but still classy touch."
Price at time of publish: $705
Material: 100% 19 momme silkSizes: XS-XLColors: Rose, Lime Green, White
PATBO Crochet and Fringe Tiered Mini Dress
Best Mini
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Bergdorfgoodman.Com
This fit-and-flare PATBO mini dress is a minimalist's dream. Its unornamented yet charming crocheted silhouette is one you could style for almost any event, from formal to casual. Dress it up with some diamonds and a pop of color on the shoe, or dress it down with a leather jacket, your favorite pair of Doc Martens, and some chunky gold hoops.
Price at time of publish: $695
Material: 50% polyamide, 50% elastaneSizes: 0-10Colors: Black
ASOS Design Shard Detail Midi Dress
Best Midi
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Asos.Com
Pair this ASOS midi dress with your favorite rose gold accessories and watch the look come together. Made of polyester, the piece will be surprisingly comfortable, and there's even a cutout under the bodice, making this the perfect choice for those warmer nights.
Price at time of publish: $152
Material: 100% polyesterSizes: 0-14Colors: Pink
Related:The 18 Best Dresses on Amazon for Every Occasion Imaginable
Herve Leger Strappy Ottoman Fringe Gown
Best Long
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Herveleger.Com
Buy at Bloomingdales.Com
For fans of an elongated neckline, consider this strappy piece. The fitted bodice of this dress, made of a blend of rayon, nylon, and spandex, will hug each and every curve, making the transition from fitted to fringed seamless and ultra-flattering.
Price at time of publish: $537
Material: 96% rayon, 3% nylon, 1% spandexSizes: XXS-XLColors: Green, Black, White
Norma Kamali Strapless Fringed Stretch Jersey Mini Dress
Best Tube
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Net-a-porter.Com
"Crafted in stretch jersey, this piece makes for the most elegant and comfortable strapless fringe dress," says Merabi. Style this dress to fit whatever aesthetic you're vibing with — for a grunge look, aim for distressed jackets, tights, or accessories, for more classic, try a trench coat and knee-high boots on for size.
Price at time of publish: $575
Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex; Trim: 96% rayon, 3% polyester, 1% spandexSizes: XXS-XLColors: Black
Cynthia Rowley Gabrielle Strapless Fringe Dress
Best Black
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Cynthiarowley.Com
Buy at Garmentory.Com
Everyone needs a fringed LBD, so it just makes sense to try out this Cynthia Rowley piece. "Chic and sophisticated, this black dress can take you from daytime cocktails to an evening party — it's versatile and effortless," Merabi says. The all-over fringe creates an eccentric look, while the elastic band around the chest allows for comfort all night long. Another combination of rayon, nylon, and spandex, you're sure to feel secure no matter where your plans take you.
Price at time of publish: $315
Material: 65% rayon, 30% nylon, 5% spandexSizes: 0-10Colors: Black
ASOS EDITION Blocked Chevron Sequin Fringe Mini Dress
Best Party
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Asos.Com
The flattering v-neck silhouette has returned once again, and to be honest, it's not going anywhere. This dress has a lot going on, in the best way, of course, so that means feel free to take it easy on the accessories and shoes. Choose black jewelry as a way of pulling attention to the black lining around the neckline.
Price at time of publish: $225
Material: 100% polyesterSizes: 0-14Colors: Multi
DUNDAS x REVOLVE Bonham Fringe Mini Dress
Best Sexy
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Revolve.Com
Whether you're looking for something a bit more risqué for your Bachelorette Party or you need a party dress suitable for the summer heat, this DUNDAS x REVOLVE collaboration is ready and accounted for. This piece will have you effortlessly feeling like the ultimate cool girl — if that's the vibe you're going for. Make sure to handwash this piece as the polyester fringe is very delicate—trust us, you will want to wear this piece more than once.
Price at time of publish: $298
Material: 58% viscose, 42% rayonSizes: XXS-XLColors: White
ELLIATT Nebulous Dress
Best Long-Sleeve
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Revolve.Com
Buy at Freepeople.Com
Keep the fringe alive even in the peak of the winter months with this long-sleeve ELLIAT Nebulous Dress. At first glance, the piece leans more to the sophisticated side, but the diamond-encrusted fringe around the thigh and surrounding the open back makes this dress easy to adapt. Couple it with some black tights and thigh-high boots for a look suitable for an after-work office party or pops of color for a classy date night.
Price at time of publish: $340
Material: 68% viscose, 28% polyamide, 4% spandexLining: 96% polyester, 4% spandexSizes: XXS-XLColors: Black
Related:The 25 Best Slip Dresses That Are More Versatile Than You Think
superdown Carly Fringe Mini Dress
Best White
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Revolve.Com
This inexpensive white fringe dress adds a subtle yet fun take on the fringe dress style with its minimal use of draped fringe just around the sleeve area. Available in white, gold, and black, buy one in every color for a dress suitable for those last-minute semi-formal occasions.
Price at time of publish: $108
Material: 100% polyesterSizes: XXS-XLColors: White, Gold, Black
Badgley Mischka Fringe Trim Sequined Cocktail Dress
Best Gold
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Saksfifthavenue.Com
For a nighttime-inspired moment, pair this Badgley Mischka piece with your favorite gold clutch, elongated earrings to match the fringe placement, and a subtle overcoat to make the outfit reveal that much more dramatic. The hemline just below the knee makes this dress suitable for those stingy dress codes.
Price at time of publish: $440
Material: 100% polyesterSizes: 0-16Colors: Gold
Nadine Merabi Sadie Silver Dress
Best Beaded
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Nadinemerabi.Com
Leave it to NADINE MERABI to create some of our favorite fringe dresses on this list. Create a memorable glimmering outfit with this all-silver dress, complete with waterfall beading and our favorite neckline for fringe dresses, the v-neck. "Wear for your most treasured occasions, you will be sure to stand out in this statement piece," says Merabi.
Price at time of publish: $675
Material: 100% chiffon lining, hand-embellished silver fringeSizes: 0-14Colors: Gold, Silver, Champagne, Pink, White
Retrofête Heather Sequin Star Fringe Dress
Best Sequin
© Provided by ByrdieBuy at Retrofete.Com
This Retrofête moment is just too adorable to pass up, and we're pretty sure you'll feel the same way. Available in bold colors like lilac, fuschia, and champagne, our favorite feature is its supportive boning around the bodice. Press add to cart and bring some color to your closet.
Price at time of publish: $398
Material: 100% nylonSizes: 0-14Colors: Gunmetal
What to Look For in Fringe Dresses Strong EmbellishmentsBecause fringe dresses tend to be a bit heavier due to the weight of the extra material, you want to make sure you feel secure yet comfortable from the beginning to the end of your night. Merabi considers investing in a strong concealed zipper, well-built straps, and concealed hems to make for a long-lasting dress.
StyleSince most of these dresses will serve as an investment piece for you and your wardrobe, Kaeojinda says to make sure the design of the dress is one you see yourself wearing more than once. "When making any kind of investment, you want to find classic patterns that suit your body that you'll want to wear again and again," Kaeojinda recommends.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat elements should you invest in when buying a fringe dress?
Experts recommend paying attention to where the lining ends on the dress and making sure you're comfortable with that length, whether it be shorter or longer. Because many designs feature fringe that goes far beyond the lining, don't be confused by the actual length of the piece. Always try on fringe dresses before you purchase. It'll benefit you in the long run.
Because fringe is such an elongating feature, make sure the dress has some type of overall shape, whether that's an emphasized neckline, like a v-neck, a belt, a cinched waist, or a slit to break up the flow of the fringe. Just because you're wearing a fringe dress doesn't mean you shouldn't have some type of shape.
How can you style a fringe dress for different events?
Kaeojinda says the right accessories can make or break the end result. "You can make fringe appropriate for any occasion by pairing it with complimentary garments and accessories to complete the look," Kaeojinda believes. Both Kaeojinda and Merabi endorse blazers as their choice for styling a fringe dress. "If you are going to a more casual event, you could wear a mini fringe dress with an oversized blazer, small fine jewelry earrings, a small crossbody bag, and heels," Kaeojinda says. "As a wedding guest, it's likely that the fringe dress would be embellished with a special material like sparkling beads. So, to match the elegance, you'd want to pair it with long drop earrings that mimic the dress and then round out the look with a small clutch and open-toe heels."
It's true most fashion enthusiasts tend to save fringe dresses for the more special occasions in life, but Kaeojinda and Merabi are here to end the stigma that fringe dresses aren't suitable for casual wear. "A fringe dress is never limited to a single event, and they're so easy to transition from daytime to nighttime wear," Merabi says. So while you may purchase a fringe dress for a fancier event, don't be afraid to experiment with unique accessories and jewelry to make the dress work for you from 9-5 and beyond.
Why Trust ByrdieMeguire Hennes is a copy editor at The Everygirl and freelance writer for lifestyle brands like Bustle, Elite Daily, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, The Everygirl, and more, consistently covering beauty, fashion, dating, decor, astrology, and entertainment. While looking to add a fringe dress to her own wardrobe, Meguire consulted with some of the most recognizable fringe dress designers of today, which allowed her to understand the intricacies behind these unique silhouettes.
Up Next:These 18 Best Going-Out Tops Will Make You Feel Confident All Night Long
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The 15 Best Places To Buy Dresses Of 2023
No matter the occasion, shopping for dresses can get a bit overwhelming. If you want a new comfy dress you will ultimately live in, need to find that perfect wedding guest dress, or are looking for workwear dresses that are office appropriate yet still feel like you (and can moonlight as going out dresses for happy hour during the week), knowing where to start in your shopping search is key.
As far as the best places to buy dresses is concerned, Naz Meknat, a celebrity stylist who works with stars like Sterling K. Brown, says that "it all depends on what kind of dress you are looking for, the occasion, your budget, and your style." She recommends starting at a department store or multi-brand online retailer for more variety and "access to different designers, a variety of colors, sizes, and prices all in one place."
Whether you prefer the variety of a department store or are looking for a more curated dress collection to shop from, we researched dozens of retailers, carefully considering styles, size offerings, shipping and return policies, and more to find the ones with the best dresses. As a result, we put together a list of our top picks for all of your dress-shopping needs.
Keep reading to discover the best places to buy dresses this spring and summer.
Nothing says variety and affordability quite like Amazon, which is home to thousands of dresses from hundreds of brands. No matter what you're looking for, you'll most likely find it here, making the retail giant the very best place to buy dresses, whether you're on the hunt for designer options or budget-friendly buys.
We personally love the affordable wedding guest dresses available, like this floral maxi dress that comes in a whopping 28 colors, as well as plenty of casual options (including the Amazon Essentials T-shirt Dress) for any sunny daytime occasion. In terms of designer brands, you can find a wonderful curation at The Shop by Shopbop. For example, this white poplin dress by Rails could easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, which only adds to its value.
In addition to variety, many dresses on Amazon are included in the retailer's Try Before You Buy initiative, allowing you to order and try on at home before purchasing. Prime Members can receive free one- to two-day shipping on a majority of dress styles, as well.
Size Range: Varies, depending on the brandShipping Policy: Free Prime Shipping for membersReturn Policy: Free returns for most Prime items
For the ultimate budget marketplace, it doesn't get much better than Walmart's selection. Find affordable trend-forward pieces at The Dress Edit, where you can filter through for dresses of different lengths, materials, and styles. Everything from a boho crochet beach cover-up to casual summer dresses to office-friendly shirt dresses, Walmart has a little something for everyone — and you may be surprised at some of the trend-forward styles available. Aside from some great dress inventory, there are some other perks when shopping at Walmart. Since there are retail locations all around the country, it's easy for most to buy online and pick up in-store and it's easy to drop off any returns as well (although it's free to mail returns, too, which you can do by dropping off at a FedEx location or scheduling a package pickup). With Walmart+, you can get free next-day and two-day shipping on any order sold and shipped by Walmart.
Size Range: XS-3XShipping Policy: Free two-day shipping on most items $35+; free shipping with Walmart+Return Policy: Free returns with full refund within 90 days of purchase for most items
Lulus is one of those places where you can find anything you need for your closet, and that is especially true for formalwear. The brand has a vast selection of dress styles that are all categorized based on style and occasion, making it easier to sift through more formal options. We love it for formal dresses because the designs feel less stuffy compared to more traditional silhouettes, plus there's a ton of style variety so you can easily find something that fits your personality and preference. However, if you're on the hunt for black-tie attire like ballgowns, we recommend looking to Nordstrom.
Size Range: XXS-3XLShipping Policy: Free shipping over $50Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of delivery date
Who It's Good ForAnyone looking for a wide variety of labels, price points, size ranges, as well as free shipping and a lenient return policy will love shopping here.
Per Meknat's advice, one of our top recommended department stores is the best place for shopping tons of variety in designers, styles, prices, and sizes. Nordstrom is home to everything from runway designers to smaller brands and everything in between, offering a collection of dress styles that work for all occasions, including casual everyday looks, formal attire, workwear dresses, and even bridal style. Since Nordstrom offers a variety of brand selections, it also has a more inclusive size range, with plus and petite sizes offered (depending on the designer), as well as maternity cuts. It also has one of the best return policies around, allowing customers to return most items without the constraints of a return period.
Size Range: XXS-4XL, plus petite and maternityShipping Policy: Free shipping, no minimumReturn Policy: Generous case-by-case basis
Finding that perfect vacation dress can be a bit of a headache and have you running from store to store. For a one-stop shop, Show Me Your Mumu, which is a brand that's been seen on many stars from The Bachelor franchises, is our go-to place to buy summer vacation dresses. We personally love it because it has an excellent range of dress styles, most of which are either trendy or feel a little more modern than some classic and modest silhouettes. Although Show Me Your Mumu isn't the most budget-friendly dress shop there is, you can get high-quality pieces that you love enough to wear several times, making any Show Me Your Mumu dress worth the investment. Another great thing about the brand is that it makes shopping for your next trip super easy with a curated Vacation Shop page, so you can browse through all that's available and pick out some swimsuits and accessories, too.
Size Range: XXS-3XLShipping Policy: $6.99 for standard shippingReturn Policy: Free returns within 30 days of delivery date
If you're looking for budget-friendly dresses that boast a ton of style, Old Navy is an excellent place to start. The brand not only specializes in more affordable price points but also offers a variety of classic styles — as well as some trendy designs — that work within many personal style preferences. On top of that, Old Navy is only of the most size-inclusive brands with an excellent size range, as well as tall, plus, and petite sizes offered in a majority of styles. In addition to its budget-friendly price points, Old Navy loves a good deal and typically offers coupons and rewards so you can find a dress you love for even less than the original price tag.
Size Range: XXS-4XL (tall, plus, and petite sizes)Shipping Policy: $7 (free after $50 for Core and Enthusiast Rewards Members)Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of shipment date
Zara might not be the first place you think of when you think of cocktail dresses, but the brand actually has a ton of great selections every season. Albeit on the more fashion-forward side of the spectrum, you can turn to Zara for a collection of stylish dresses that can easily be dressed up as cocktail dresses (or even a going-out dress) and then dressed down for more of a day-off type of look. We love Zara because many pieces feel runway-worthy without the designer price tag to match, making it a more affordable place to shop for dresses, too. If you live near a brick-and-mortar location, you can opt for in-store pick-up when ordering online and always get free shipping (if not, you'll need to spend $50).
Size Range: XXS-XXLShipping Policy: Free shipping over $50; free online pick-up for any orderReturn Policy: Free returns within 30 days of the shipment date
Who It's Good ForThose looking to invest in multi-functional, versatile pieces that can result in a low cost-per-wear over time, you'll love Reformation.
Our top pick for the best investment dresses is Reformation. While this isn't your typical runway designer, Reformation makes some of the most high-quality dresses with even higher standards. The brand plans to be climate positive by 2025 and has a variety of necessary practices in place to do so — including cleaner and more efficient practices. Apart from its sustainable lens, Reformation has some truly special designs that feel timeless and classy, even when they boast a more trendy style. From formalwear to wedding guest dresses to going-out dresses, you can find a variety of options that fit your occasion and style that can be worn again and again.
Size Range: XS-3XLShipping Policy: Free shipping on everythingReturn Policy: Return within 30 days of delivery date
If you're looking for the best dresses for the office, Banana Republic is the place to look. The company has a variety of office-appropriate silhouettes in more traditional, preppy styles that work well for both dressy and casual office environments (and can easily transition into an after-work drinks look). From satin shirt dresses to blazer dresses to sweater dresses, the company is a great resource for chic and sensible office attire. The one downside is that while the company does offer petite and tall sizes, the largest size the brand offers is XXL, so this isn't the place for anyone who needs plus or extended sizing, unfortunately.
Size Range: XXS-XXL (regular, tall, and petite)Shipping Policy: Free shipping over $50Return Policy: Return within 30 days of shipment date
For expecting mothers, Hatch is a fantastic place to find stylish pieces that fit a growing baby bump. The brand offers more casual, everyday looks that are perfect for staying comfortable throughout your trimesters (although they don't offer formalwear dresses). We love it because the collection is super easy to shop, as you can find styles based on your trimester as well as size. The brand also has a collection of postpartum essentials, including styles such as nursing dresses, nightgowns, and other comfortable styles. The dresses aren't cheap, however, so this might not be the place if you're not wanting to spend a ton of money on maternity clothes.
Size Range: XS-XLShipping Policy: $6 ground shippingReturn Policy: Return within 30 days of purchase for a $10 fee
Who It's Not Good ForIf you're looking for more budget-friendly casual dresses, we recommend Amazon, Target, and Old Navy.
Casual yet ultra-stylish, Madewell is the best place to find dresses for everyday wear. From classic T-shirt dresses to smocked silhouettes, you can find a variety of casual dress looks from the brand itself as well as from smaller brands through Madewell's Labels We Love marketplace. On top of that, the brand takes a sustainable approach to preloved items, allowing customers to resell pieces through a partnership with ThredUp for a fraction of the original price tag. A corner of the website is dedicated to vintage finds (including vintage dresses). Since the brand has such a great collection of dresses from its own designs and small brands, it also has a more inclusive size range with plus sizes available on select styles. While there are some affordable options, this isn't a low-budget fast fashion brand — if you have a smaller budget we recommend Old Navy, Amazon, and Target, which offer some great budget-friendly casual dresses.
Size Range: XS-5XLShipping Policy: $3 economy shipping (free for members)Return Policy: Return within 30 days of purchase
Who It's Not Good ForPetite people who are looking for more variety of dresses, formalwear, or designer labels may consider Nordstrom instead.
Made exclusively for petite sizes, Petite Studio is the best place to find great-fitting dresses for smaller frames. We love this shop because, in addition to its petite-sized focus, it has only a small collection of dresses, making it less overwhelming to shop. Most dresses are versatile enough to dress up, wear to the office, or dress down for day-off activities, too. Although it doesn't have the greatest return policy, the store does offer free exchanges, so you can easily swap out sizes for a better fit.
Size Range: XXS-LShipping Policy: Free shipping over $98Return Policy: Return within 20 days of purchasing for an $8 fee
Eloquii is one of our favorite places to shop for trendy and stylish plus-sized garments — and their dress selection is no exception. The company specializes in dresses sizes 14 through 32 and offers a variety of styles, including more casual, everyday looks, as well as formalwear, wedding guest dresses, and even bridal. From trendy sweater dresses to sleek shirt dresses, you can find all sorts of stunning dress styles. On top of that, Eloquii is no stranger to a good deal and is known to occasionally offer up to 60 percent off select styles, making it even easier to find something within budget.
Size Range: 14-32Shipping Policy: Varies, depending on where you liveReturn Policy: Return within 30 days of receipt; $5 return shipping fee
Whether you're shopping for a rehearsal dinner dress or a wedding gown, BHLDN is home to some of the most unique and stylish options. From classic silhouettes to funky shapes, you can find a variety of incredible dress silhouettes for all of your wedding occasions (including bridesmaid dresses) when you shop the Anthropologie-owned brand. On top of having excellent taste, BHLDN has a fantastic size range, with plus size options available.
Size Range: XXS-3XL, 1X-4XShipping Policy: Free shipping over $50Return Policy: Return within 30 days of purchase; $5.95 online returns, or free returns in store
Going-out dresses are all about showing off personal style, and Showpo is the epitome of style. With tons of amazing dress styles to choose from, you can find virtually anything for a night out on the town. From classic silhouettes and trendy designs to birthday party and bachelorette dresses, the retailer is home to over 33 pages of stylish dresses to wear when you go out. On top of that, it has a pretty decent size range (compared to other retailers) with some silhouettes offered in plus and curve sizes.
Size Range: XXS-4XLShipping Policy: Varies, depending on where you liveReturn Policy: Return within 30 days of placing your order for 110 percent store credit or a refund
How to Pick the Right Place to Buy Dresses Online Size RangeFirst and foremost, you want to make sure a dress is available in your size, as there is nothing worse than falling in love with a dress, only to find out your size is sold out or unavailable. If you do end up falling in love with a dress, and it comes in your size but is sold out, many brands and companies offer restock notifications, which can help you ultimately snag the dress of your dreams once it becomes available again. Another hack: Nordstrom offers free tailoring on anything — whether or not it was purchased from the retailer — so you can always size up and get it tailored in-store if you need to.
Price RangeIt's also important to consider your budget as well as look at the price range of dresses offered when shopping for dresses. If you plan to invest in a dress with a higher price tag, Meknat says to "make sure it's not too trendy and won't go out of style by the next season if you want to invest in a piece that can be worn more than once." That's why we picked Reformation as a splurge option — the brand's silhouettes have timeless appeal, and the high-quality materials increase the longevity of the dresses.
It's also important to have things like your personal style and the occasion dialed in before considering your budget. "It's better to have a clear vision of what you're looking for first and then go to the stores and brands within your budget rather than the other way around," says Elysha Lenkin, a TV and celebrity stylist who has worked with Carrie Underwood, Serena Williams, and Tina Fey.
Shipping and Return PoliciesBefore clicking add to cart, be sure to double-check the shipping and return policies. Not only do you want to have a clear idea of the policies and how soon your dress will arrive, but you also want to make sure your dress is returnable if you're unsure of the sizing. Many retailers offer returns on most items, though some sale items could be final-sale, depending on the store. Nordstrom, Walmart, and Amazon are best in class when it comes to returns — Amazon and Walmart have free shipping and returns for members, and Nordstrom has such a generous return policy that usually takes any returns without a time limit, even without a receipt or the original packaging.
Fit"It's also important to consider your body type while shopping for a dress, as different styles complement different body types," says Meknat. She recommends getting to know your body shape and which styles are "the most flattering to your shape and size" before honing in on a dress type.
Comfort is another key fit component. "I know that isn't necessarily everyone's point of view, but I think there is a way to combine comfort with looking your absolute best," says Daniela Romero, a celebrity stylist who has worked with Sarah Hyland and Kaley Cuoco. Romero also recommends trying something new. If it doesn't fit right, she recommends a quick trip to the tailor to achieve that amazing fit and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
We picked Amazon as the best overall place to shop for dresses, due to the retailer's wide variety of styles, price points, designers, and sizes, as well as plenty of clearance items. The online retailer is also known for its generous return policy as well as its Try Before You Buy program.
It totally depends on your budget and the item's potential cost-per-wear, but overall, investing in a dress that's versatile and high-quality can be worth it. If you can find a timeless, well-made black dress that can accompany you to formals, wedding events, dinner dates, office parties, and the like, it can be worth investing in. Cheaper dresses don't always last long and tend to be more trend-forward, meaning you'll get less wear out of them in the long run.
According to Lenkin, a cocktail dress can be whatever length you choose (though they do tend to be on the shorter side). "Focus on the styles you love and the length that suits your body best," she advises. "The key is to feel comfortable so that you're not tugging at a shorter hemline or tripping over too much fabric around your ankles," she adds. For a more modern spin on a cocktail dress, Lenkin recommends a classy floral maxi dress in a silk chiffon fabric.
"A perfect dress to wear to the office is anything that isn't too short, so you can sit comfortably in it," says Romero. "I think you should be able to show your personality in office clothes and have some fun with it, though." To do so, Romero recommends looking at colors, patterns, and different necklines to mix it up. "It comes down to the accessories for executing a look and making it look super-polished," she adds.
"It used to be that cocktail attire was shorter, and formal attire was longer, but that is no longer the case," says Lenkin. She says a short dress can be the perfect ensemble for a formal event, just like Reese Witherspoon once demonstrated on the Golden Globe Awards red carpet in her knee-length, bright yellow Nina Ricci dress. "Rather than get your guidance from the 'formal' or 'cocktail' descriptors, plug into other adjectives that resonate with the way you want to feel at the event, and then align your dress to express these words," Lenkin recommends. "An elegant, sophisticated, or glamorous dress will work well for many occasions."
Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, and NYLON. When researching the best places to buy dresses, Jessie tapped cele
