6 Ways to Choose The Right Summer Party Dress

6 Ways to Choose The Right Summer Party Dress

If there's one thing I love about summer, it's that dressing for the day takes very little effort and very few layers. Sandals? Dress? Done! It's pretty convenient that this strategy becomes possible at a time of year packed with parties: cook-outs, swim parties, rooftop parties, backyard parties, beach parties — you get the idea. All you need is a bunch of dresses. So the real question is: which party dresses should you choose? Here are six tips for choosing the right summer dress for your next party.

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First thing's first: to withstand summer's unforgiving weather conditions, you need to stock up on dresses made with natural fabrics. "I recommend a cotton, linen, or bamboo for lightness and breathability," says Jeanie Cheek, a New York-based wardrobe stylist and costume designer. "Natural fabrics tend to be less troublesome when it comes to showing any perspiration."

Whether it's a rooftop BBQ or a round of drinks under paper lanterns in a backyard, you want a no-fuss approach to your attire. Think about it: hot dogs, burgers, ketchup, the pungent coal smell? You definitely don't want to deal with rushing a dress to the dry cleaners. A cotton halter dress or a shirt dress is a great choice for the occasion. Go for fun colors and prints instead of embellishments to "keep the look fun," according to Cheek. For the casual cool with a bit of print, pair this Gap floral shirtdress with a pair of leather rope sandals.

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You can't escape them: music festivals are in every corner of the world. Break loose in vibrant colors, and choose a number that you can swing your hips in — think the girls of Glastonbury. "Go for something that lets you move to the music like a boho chic flow-y number or an easy embroidered cotton dress," says Cheek. When the atmosphere is so positive and music offerings so eclectic, you have a great opportunity to go a little wild with prints and cuts.

The beach is a great way to escape the heat, but if you aren't in the mood to wear a swimsuit in public — or you want something to wear over said swimsuit — opt for a dress. "You want to make sure you keep it lightweight and breezy by the ocean," suggests Cheek. For a beach party, a simple slip dress, like this Free People crochet dress, or maxi dress will hold up against the wind and sand.

For summer cocktail soirees and outdoor wedding receptions, consider a true party dress in a light material and bright hue. Cheek loves a structured lace dress like this Alexia Admore beaded lace dress for an elegant approach to showing skin. Not too keen on lace? A vibrant color will add a little light to the night and definitely turn heads your way. If you're wearing a dress with sleeves and are self-conscious about leaving a sweat stain, pad the area with an underarm sweat guard.

No time to run home between the office and your fete? The maxi dress is a great way to transition to evening without a wardrobe change. It's also a style that, according to Cheek, "looks great on every body type." To take the dress from a weekend stroll to a ladies' night out, layer on some accessories and a light jean jacket when the temperature drops. "As a stylist who often has to meet up with clients for dinner meetings after a shoot," notes Cheek, "you'll definitely be seeing me rocking maxis all summer long."