Sleeves, just like pockets in a dress, can give you a sense of security and make you feel less exposed. In the winter, they also serve as a shield, offering warmth and protection from those unforgiving cold snaps. If you love the combination of a midi dress [1] and sleeves — short or long — you've come to the right place. We went on a hunt for some stylish options that will pair well with long work days [2] and longer evenings in the city.
From one-shoulder silhouettes to eye-catching printed styles, these dresses are ready for any occasion as they retain a sense of comfort and easy style. Elsewhere, there are quite a few polished options for dressier moments: the Mara Hoffman midi dress [3] is an elegant splurge, while the more affordable H&M pieces [4] are just as elevated. Read on to find your dream midi dress with sleeves.
An Open-Back Statement: Nasty Gal Knitted Ribbed Midi Dress
Show off your back in an elegant way in this Nasty Gal Knitted Ribbed Midi Dress [6] ($24, originally $59), which features a high neck, a relaxed silhouette, and long sleeves. Style it with strappy heels.
For an Unexpected Detail: OPT Gertie Dress
Reserve this OPT Gertie Dress [7] ($82, originally $137) for dressy occasions like a hot date or office party. The asymmetrical cutout is unexpectedly playful, definitely dialing up the allure. Pair it with tall heeled boots or strappy heels.
Some Cutout-Shoulder Action: Enza Costa Silk Rib Angled Neck Midi Dress
This Enza Costa Silk Rib Angled Neck Midi Dress [8] ($225) oozes sex appeal, confidence, and femininity. It's a great one to dress up or down, depending on the mood.
A Red-Hot Moment: Nasty Gal Wrap Front Satin Midi Shirt Dress
In a sea of wrap dresses, this Nasty Gal Wrap Front Satin Midi Shirt Dress [9] ($40, originally $99) will definitely stand out. Cut in gleaming satin that will nicely hug your body without making you feel restrained, it will pair well with heels and a chunky gold necklace.
An Outfit Repeater: Nasty Gal Recycled Ribbed Knitted Cut Out Midi Dress
This Nasty Gal Recycled Ribbed Knitted Cut Out Midi Dress [10] ($15, originally $89) is cut in a soft fabric and features an unexpected bodice cutout that amps up the sex appeal. We guarantee you'll be repeating this outfit!
A Seductive Style: Significant Other Monza Cutout Jersey Midi Dress
This sultry Significant Other Monza Cutout Jersey Midi Dress [11] ($220) features front cutouts, signature drapery, and a slim fit, perfect for cocktails on a rooftop. It has an understated elegance that makes it ready for your next date or holiday night out.
For Maximum Allure: Minkpink Willow Ruched Jersey Dress
This Minkpink Willow Ruched Jersey Dress [12] ($90, originally $129) will accentuate your figure, thanks to its lustrous knit and slinky silhouette. It will look great with mules or kitten heels.
A Taffeta Affair: Self Portrait Lace-Detailed Midi Dress
This lustrous Self Portrait Lace-Detailed Taffeta Midi Dress [13] ($555) is cocktail ready. It features slightly dramatic puff sleeves, a pleated bodice, and ruched detailing for a flattering fit and polished look.
For a Night Out: AFRM Adut Cutout Bodice Long Sleeve Mesh Midi Dress
You'll feel confident and sexy in this head-turning AFRM Adut Cutout Bodice Long Sleeve Mesh Midi Dress [14] ($88). Complete the look with some thong sandals and a cute shoulder bag.
An Office-Ready Dress: Good American Long Sleeve Polo Midi Dress
If you want a professional-looking dress that is also stylish, we found your match. The Good American Long Sleeve Polo Midi Dress [15] ($78, originally $149) is easy to dress up with heels and down with sneakers. Plus, the rib-stitched material makes it comfortable enough to wear all day.
For a Day-to-Night Look: ASTR the Label Twist Front Long Sleeve Sweater Dress
This ASTR the Label Twist Front Long Sleeve Sweater Dress [16] ($89) will charm everyone at the next brunch party or office gathering. We love the neckline and fitted rib fabric.
A Sporty Style: Rag & Bone Peyton Polo Midi Dress
This easygoing Rag & Bone Peyton Polo Midi Dress [17] ($128, originally $425) is a must for casual days where you'd still like to look put-together. The sporty stripes give it attitude, while the colour palette makes it easy to style.
A Sunday Dress: Nasty Gal Ribbed Wrap Panel Midi Dress
This Nasty Gal Ribbed Wrap Panel Midi Dress [18] ($18, originally $60) feels like a Sunday dress with its easy elegance and comfort, don't you agree? It's made in a stretchy ribbed jersey that will make it a joy to wear. At home, pair it with slippers, or bring out your favourite kitten heels or boots if you have to step out.
A Funky Print: Nasty Gal Abstract Check Mesh Funnel Neck Midi Dress
This pop-inspired Nasty Gal Abstract Check Mesh Funnel Neck Midi Dress [19] ($24, originally $79) is effortlessly cool, plus the silhouette is easygoing, so you'll be wearing it on repeat. Make it edgy with chunky boots and a leather jacket.
A Day-to-Night Ensemble: Line & Dot Sylvie Sweater Dress
This Line & Dot Sylvie Sweater Dress [20] ($77, originally $110) features thigh-high side slits and a one-shoulder neckline with a ribbed panel for a sleek, asymmetrical ensemble. It works both for daytime and nighttime outings.
Royal Purple: H&M High-Sheen Dress
This H&M High-Sheen Dress [21] ($25) has a certain regal elegance, thanks to the choice of purple, shimmering fabric, and easygoing fit.
A Relaxed Silhouette: Line & Dot Camilla Knit Ribbed Shirt Dress
This Line & Dot Camilla Knit Ribbed Shirt Dress [22] ($69, originally $99) is an earthy spin on your traditional shirtdress, and we love the rich yet understated colour. Complete your outfit with sneakers or loafers for casual runs.
A Wardrobe Staple: H&M Rib-Knit Dress
This Rib-Knit Dress [23] ($50) is not only winter-friendly, but the fit is also comfortable and flattering. You'll have no problem going about your days with ease.
A Busy-Day Match: Nasty Gal Notch Neck Ribbed Knitted Midi Dress
On days when dressing up isn't the priority but you'd still like to look effortlessly put-together, this Nasty Gal Notch Neck Ribbed Knitted Midi Dress [24] ($14, originally $45) is the answer. It features a crew neckline with notched detailing, a fitted yet stretchy silhouette, and long sleeves.
A Pop of Sunshine: Jonathan Simkhai Mabel Chain-Detailed Cutout Crepe Midi Dress
This sun-drenched Jonathan Simkhai Mabel Chain-Detailed Cutout Crepe Midi Dress [25] ($258, originally $645) makes a luxuriously elegant and fluid choice for family affairs, dinner parties, or intimate reunions. We love the chunky gold chain embellishing at the waist cutout, as well as the asymmetric silhouette.
A Neutral Choice: Madewell Button-Front Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Midi Dress
The Madewell Button-Front Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Midi Dress [26] ($148) has an understated elegance that makes it extremely desirable. I like it paired with Mary Janes or with loafers and socks.
A Fun Print: Mango Flower Print Dress
Whether they pair this Mango Flower Print Dress [27] ($50, originally $100) with tall boots and a wool coat or wear it with sneakers and a trench coat, it will look feminine, edgy, and cool.
A Timeless Style: Enza Costa Tencel Cashmere Rib Midi Dress
You'd get a lot of mileage out of this Enza Costa Tencel Cashmere Rib Midi Dress [28] ($263), because you can dress it up for a date or keep it cool and casual for the office or errands. Trust us, you'll turn to it season after season.
A Soft Hue: Mara Hoffman Emery Off-The-Shoulder Midi Dress
Made of an organic cotton blend, this Mara Hoffman Emery Off-The-Shoulder Organic Cotton-Blend Midi Dress [29] ($325) features a seductive off-the-shoulder silhouette enhanced by an elegant neckline. Complete the look with tall heeled boots for date night.
For Formal Occasions: H&M Satin Wrap-front Dress
This H&M Satin Wrap-front Dress [30] ($25, originally $50) is a great choice for formal occasions, whether you're meeting the in-laws, seeing your team for the first time in person, or attending a gala. It oozes easy elegance and comfort.
A Versatile Silhouette: H&M Lyocell-blend Shirt Dress
This H&M Lyocell-blend Shirt Dress [31] ($70) is an easygoing, wear-everywhere style you'll turn to for every occasion. It has just enough polish for a Zoom meeting or afterwork happy hour.