I don't know who needs to hear this, but you don't need to spend a small fortune to be the best dressed person in the room. Sometimes, all you really need is a great dress [1] and a few standout accessories. [2]
Need proof? Prepare to fall in love with these 20 super-chic dresses, all of which can be yours for $40 or less. The list below runs the gamut from flouncy frocks to sleek, maxi dresses [3], and everything in between. Not only can each style be dressed up or down to match the occasion, but they'll also receive a lot of compliments. And, trust me, your inner circle will be shocked when you say, "Thanks! I got it at Target for under $40!"
Pattern Play: A New Day Long Sleeve Ruffle Hem Dress
As far as I'm concerned, a fun printed dress is the key to looking effortlessly chic. This A New Day Long Sleeve Ruffle Hem Dress [5] ($28) ticks off all of the boxes, plus the flouncy hemline will move nicely as you do.
Summer-Friendly Frock: Knox Rose Sleeveless Tiered Dress
Consider this Knox Rose Sleeveless Tiered Dress [6] ($35) your secret weapon during the dog days of summer. This pick is made with a lightweight, breathable fabric, plus the spaghetti straps are heatwave-friendly.
Simple Slip: A New Day Slip Dress
In case you didn't get the memo, every stylish shopper should have a simple slip dress hanging in thier closet. And, if you're late to hop on this trend, this A New Day Slip Dress [7] ($25) is for you. This easy silhouette is juxtaposed with a ditsy floral print.
Chill Vibes: Universal Thread Puff Long Sleeve T-Shirt Dress
Looking for a dress that you can slip on and instantly feel like the coolest girl around? The Universal Thread Puff Long Sleeve T-Shirt Dress [8] ($25) has you covered.
Low-Maintenance Elegance:A New Day Ruffle Sleeveless Dress
When the temperature is creeping up into the triple digits, the last thing you want to do is put much thought into your outfit. (Even getting dressed in the first place is a herculean task.) But, with a breezy shape and ruffled straps, this A New Day Ruffle Sleeveless Dress [9] ($28) makes it easy. Simply throw it on, add some cute sandals, and you're done.
Pop of Pink: Who What Wear Ruffle Short Sleeve Dress
Anyone who wants to look at the world through rose-coloured glasses will be low-key obsessed with this Who What Wear Ruffle Short Sleeve Dress [10] ($35). The subtly fluttered sleeves and asymmetrical seams zhuzh up this frock's otherwise boxy silhoeutte.
Affordable Ensemble: A New Day Knit Tank Dress
Not only is the A New Day Knit Tank Dress [11] ($10) effortlessly cool, but it's also available for $10. (I know, wow.)
GNO Outfit: Wild Fable Sleeveless Satin Wrap Dress
Consider this Wild Fable Sleeveless Satin Wrap Dress [12] ($30) the perfect thing to wear during a fun night out with friends. The stain fabric and thigh-high hemline ooze '90s vibes. A stylish wall down memory lane, if you will.
Party Ready: Who What Wear Sleeveless Multi Tiered Dress
With a sweet gingham pattern and tiered shape, the Who What Wear Sleeveless Multi Tiered Dress [13] ($37) is basically a party in an outfit. All you need to do is add your favourite heels.
For Outdoor Hangs: A New Day Slim Fit Sleeveless Knit Dress
Want to spend some quality time with Mother Nature? You can wear this A New Day Slim Fit Sleeveless Knit Dress [14] ($20) virtually anywhere. Pair it with flats and a denim jacket for trip to the farmer's market. Or, if you're headed to a romantic dinner al fresco, strap on your favourite heels and add some chunky gold hoops.
Cool and Casual: A New Day Short Sleeve Rib Knit T-Shirt Dres
On the hunt for a casual dress? The A New Day Short Sleeve Rib Knit T-Shirt Dres [15] ($20) will look great with white sneakers and a crossbody bag.
Tie Dye Treatment: Knox Rose Sleeveless Knit Dress
Bring your love of tie dye to your street style with this Knox Rose Sleeveless Knit Dress [16] ($25). Between the easy silhouette and drawstring waist, this is one maxi dress you'll want to wear both at home and in public.
Dotted Design: Who What Wear Short Sleeve Button-Up Trapeze Dress
As the Who What Wear Short Sleeve Button-Up Trapeze Dress [17] ($37) proves, a black and white dress is anything but boring. The polka dot pattern gives this classic colour combo a fun edge.
Maternity Marvel: The Nines by HATCH Tie Short Sleeve Crepe Maternity Dress
Growing your family tree? The Nines by HATCH Tie Short Sleeve Crepe Maternity Dress [18] ($36) will make you a shoo-in for "coolest mom-to-be." Thanks to its billowy silhouette, you can even wear this frock postpartum.
Buttoned Beauty: Ava & Viv Plus Size Knit Button-Front Dress
If the mere thought of contorting your body just to put on a dress stresses you out, spring for the Ava & Viv Plus Size Knit Button-Front Dress [19] ($28). The buttoned front makes it easy to take this frock on and off, plus the tied belt will allow you to show off your figure.
Stylish Sleeves: A New Day Puff Elbow Sleeve Seersucker Dress
Why settle for a Zoom top when you can have a Zoom dress, too? This A New Day Puff Elbow Sleeve Seersucker Dress [20] ($28) is webcam-ready, thanks to the jewel hue and puffy sleeves.
Universal Thread Sleeveless Dress
Calling all maximalists: prepare to wear this Universal Thread Sleeveless Dress [21] ($35) all summer long. (Bold colour? Fun print? Ruffled neckline? Check, check, and check.)
A New Day Long Sleeve High Cuff Shirtdress
You can never go wrong with a classic shirtdress. This A New Day Long Sleeve High Cuff Shirtdress [22] ($28) reimagines the timeless staple with a laidback, checked print.
Who What Wear Puff Elbow Sleeve Dress
Not to sound extra, but this Who What Wear Puff Elbow Sleeve Dress [23] ($35) has single-handedly convinced me that I need to book a beach holiday, prtono. (And, obviously, add this tropical number in my suitcase.)
A New Day Elbow Sleeve Eyelet Dress
With poofy sleeves and a sweet eyelet detailing, this A New Day Elbow Sleeve Eyelet Dress [24] ($30) packs on the Bridgerton [25] vibes — but won't make your closet feel outdated.