With the official start of spring finally in reach, now's the right time to refresh your wardrobe for the warmer months ahead. Our team of shopping editors keeps their finger on the pulse of the season's latest styles, and we've rounded up five of the best spring dress trends to help spruce up your outfits.
On our list, you'll find cute styles from top-tested brands like Everlane, Aritzia, and Abercrombie & Fitch, as well as a handful of Amazon dresses vetted by our Textiles Lab experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute. From office-friendly shirtdresses to wedding-guest gowns with dramatic ruffles, our favorite spring dresses suit a variety of occasions and tastes—and plenty of them happen to be on sale.
Dramatic drop-waist dresses
First made popular during the 1920s flapper era of fashion, drop-waist dresses are trending again, a whole century later, for their flattering, waist-lengthening cut. Depending on which fabric and length you choose, this style can work for both dressy and casual occasions. Madewell's stretchy, smocked maxi dress in a graphic sunflower print is ideal for weekend errands, while this Zesica midi can be dressed up for date night.
Delicate lace-trimmed dresses
This season, it's all about the lace details. From lingerie-inspired slips to bohemian maxi dresses, lace trim offers a flirty, romantic vibe and a fun pop of texture. Lean into the 90s aesthetic of this black-and-white Aritzia mini by pairing it with kitten heels, or throw a denim jacket over this floral Abercrombie frock for a cute concert outfit.
Structured shirtdresses
With a structured menswear-inspired silhouette, shirtdresses are a timeless addition to your everyday wardrobe. We're seeing both traditional and modern takes: this poplin pick from Banana Republic Factory is adorned with a tie-front detail for waist emphasis, and this pinstriped option from Quince features a trendy drop-waist.
Funky fringe dresses
Several of our favorite brands are leaning into playful textural elements this season, like fringe. While the bohemian detail is typically associated with Western pieces like suede jackets, it can add visual intrigue to otherwise simple dresses. Pair this Nordstrom scoop-neck sweater dress with sandals for your next beach vacation, or rock this fringed midi from Amazon to score compliments at spring weddings.
Romantic ruffle dresses
It's no surprise that ruffled dresses are also a popular pick for the spring. To prevent these frilly layers from coming across as juvenile, opt for sleeker silhouettes and sophisticated colors to achieve an elegant (but still playful!) look. This vibrant red mini from Aqua can be paired with knee-high boots for transitional weather, while this delicate Aritzia slip will keep you feeling cool as we head into summer.
