Summer Dress Styles: Hottest Summer Dresses

Living in a cold climate, I go all out for summer. Summer for me, is all about dresses, since I can't wear them in winter or fall! There are millions of hot summer dress styles out there but these are the most popular, and wearable summer dresses. When choosing a summer dress style or pattern, keep your body type in mind. Yes, we want to shop the trends, but not all trends work for everyone, and it's okay to pass up a certain style once in a while. (Hello, Crocs?).

Summer Dress Style #1: Scarf Dresses

I love the scarf dress for summer. The unique patterns evoke a sense of freedom and leisure. Yes, you can't really wear them to work but they're perfect for beach cover-ups, summer BBQ's and even yacht parties. They're a fab piece to own because of their versatility! And the name? Duh, because it looks like it was made from a silk scarf!

Brand: Sakas Dresses

Price: $32.99

The eyelet pattern is perfect for summer. I like to take eyelet to a new level by adding on some color. (Eyelet most often comes in white) Eyelet dresses are crisp, clean and romantic. The look is feminine with a chic touch. It's also acceptable to wear a dress that is just partly eyelet. Eyelet is perfect for summer also because it's nice and breezy and doesn't easily wrinkle! Try one in a babydoll or shift dress!

Brand: Betsey Johnson

Price: $398

This one is an oldie but a goodie. Who doesn't love florals for summer? There is no better time to wear this vibrant print. Go for as much floral or as little as you'd like. If you're very petite, don't do large flowers as that will overwhelm your frame. My favorite *new trend* for this summer, is to mix and match floral prints with other solid colors and fabrics, like the dress at the right.

Brand: Alice + Olivia

Price: $550

Check out more affordable floral dresses below. Just as cute without breaking the bank!

This dress worn by Paris Hilton at right actually combines two of my favorite hot trends for this summer: Maxi dresses and Ombre. Ombre simply means that the colors blend from one into another. When going for a maxi dress, go bright with the color. If the hue is subdued, I feel it looks a bit like a dramatic let down. Too much black or grey can look quite depressing. Try a bright pink, blue, green, yellow, coral or even white. If you are a petite girl, I would stick to a maxi dress that is all one color and quite fitted. You need that one color to elongate you. And if you're tall? Go for anything, you can pull it off!

Brand: Gypsy 05

Price: $195

Jersey dresses are not just for clubs ladies. Jersey material is so fantastic for summer, that I make sure to stock up on Jersey dresses. They never wrinkle and the fabric is very breathable, keeping you cool throughout the hot summer months! Jersey can be extremely flattering to hourglass body types, so if this is you, take this tip and run with it! Jersey is also fantastic for thinner bodies, as it will accentuate your smaller curves, making them seem bigger. I like to keep a balance with jersey dresses so that I don't end up looking trashy. If the dress it somewhat short, I make sure it has sleeves or a high neckline. And if the dress is low-cut or sleeveless, I'll wear one that is knee-length.

Brand: Kfashionhouse

Price: $23.99

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Exotic prints are all the rage for this summer. Think bold colors and fab tribal inspired prints. When wearing a dress with a bold print, I like the keep the dress shape in balance. What do I mean by this? I mean, keep the fabric to a minimum. So no maxi dresses! Also try to keep your shoes and accessories neutral. If not, your jewelry and dress will be fighting for attention. You want to wear the dress, not have the dress wear you!

Brand: Alki'i

Price: $19.99

I am absolutely a huge fan of white dresses for summer. Remember, white can look just as slimming as black when done properly. Also, white is fab for summer because it really brings out that golden glow in everyone. I really encourage my clients to stay away from black in the summer: it's just too depressing. Plus you have plenty of other months to wear all the black your heart's desire. I love Victorias Secret for simple but well tailored dresses. This style is universally flattering, and I love that sweetheart neckline.

Brand: Victorias Secret

Price: $48