13 Cotton Dresses That Won’t Stick, Cling or Make You Overheat, From $35

The story is the same every summer: you put on a cute dress, step outside and immediately feel like you’ve been wrapped in a damp napkin. While lightweight fabrics sound great in theory, they don’t always provide the breathability you need in practice. That’s where cotton dresses come in. They are moisture-wicking, heat-friendly and allow your skin to breathe.

Whether you’re heading to brunch, attending a backyard BBQ or want to run errands without feeling like you’re melting, these 13 cotton dresses will come to your rescue. Below, you’ll find crisp shirt dresses, dreamy maxis and cool-girl minis — all made from 100% cotton.

13 Cotton Dresses That Won’t Stick, Cling or Make You Overheat

Maxi Dresses

1. Backyard Bloom: The bold red hue. The smocked bodice. The breezy gauze. This is the one you throw on when you want to look like you made an effort — without actually making one.

2. Brunch Host Energy: With puff sleeves and a tailored fit, this crisp cotton shirtdress says “I planned this,” even when all you did was roll out of bed.

3. Summer Soft Launch: Smocked at the waist and finished with delicate ruffles, this one’s perfect for baby showers and dinner dates.

4. Cottagecore Glow-Up: The scalloped trim gives this smocked maxi a dreamy touch. Add a sunhat and you’re suddenly the main character.

5. Island Mood Activated: This halter maxi does a lot with very little.

Midi Dresses

6. Pocket Full of Sunshine: This one checks every box for summer functionality and style.

7. Afternoon in Amalfi:  The embroidery and crochet trim give this cotton midi that vintage holiday-in-Italy feel.

8. The Twirl Factor: This flouncy pick is a no-brainer for weddings and fancy brunches.

9. Poolside Poplin: Striped and halter-topped, this crisp cotton midi brings retro resort vibes without feeling costume-y.

Mini Dresses

10. Poplin Edit: This dress pulls together like your favorite button-down, just cuter.

11. Business Casual, But Cute: This is your no-sweat solution to looking polished in 90-degree weather.

12. Cinch Effect: Ruched and crisp, this long-sleeve shirtdress proves that cotton can look tailored without being stiff or sweaty.

13. Playdate Pretty: Whimsical tiers, puff sleeves and breathable cotton — this is the dress equivalent of that one friend who always looks adorable without trying.