Photo courtesy of The Reformation.com
Now we’re giving you the best summer dresses under $500 that look designer—elevated, effortless styles perfect for warm-weather days and chic getaways.
There’s something powerful about a summer dress that doesn’t just look beautiful — it looks expensive. Think crisp linen, sculpted silhouettes, and tailoring that does more with less. The best part? You don’t need to spend four digits to get the effect.
Below, we’ve curated the best summer dresses under $500 that deliver that quiet luxury feeling. They’re the pieces you’ll wear on rotation — to dinners in Provence, Sunday markets in Silver Lake, and rooftop parties where the only accessory you need is great lighting.
REFORMATION
Janu Linen Dress
This is the closest thing we’ve found to a “throw it on and go,
but still get compliments” dress. Bias-cut linen and just structured enough to hold its shape in the heat.
$278
Shop it here
FAITHFUL THE BRAND
Aniela Maxi Dress Soft Blue
It features adjustable straps, a relaxed fit, and a voluminous bubble skirt that makes it the perfect vacation-ready piece.
$240
Shop it here
STAUD
Vincent Cotton Poplin Midi Dress
This has the crispness of The Row — but you won’t cry over a gelato spill. We love it belted over a swimsuit or worn loose with slip-on flats for daytime cool.
$235
Shop it here
Totême
One-Shoulder Midi Dress
Totême knows restraint. This asymmetric column dress is architectural, fluid, and just structured enough to hold its shape without feeling stiff.
$440
now only $220
Buy it now
VINCE
Seamed Cotton
Tank Dress
It flatters with a fitted waist and flared skirt, while doubled straps and a sweeping scoop back add effortless definition and graceful movement.
$498
Shop it here
POSSE THE LABEL
Paloma Maxi Dress
Citrus Floral
Australian label Posse has mastered breezy minimalism. The open-back detail on this one keeps it interesting — especially layered with gold jewelry and a tan.
$439
Shop it here
REFORMATION
Cassi Knit Dress
Equal parts ‘90s and now, this ribbed knit hugs just right without clinging. Add a kitten heel and it works for city nights; swap for sneakers and you’re set for day.
$148
Shop it here
Each of these dresses was chosen not just because of their price point — but because they deliver on look, fabric, and silhouette. They’re easy to wear, easy to pack, and hard to forget.
Quiet luxury isn’t about logos or trends — it’s about buying once, wearing often, and looking like you know something the rest of the room doesn’t.
Complete your summer wardrobe with our top 10 straw hats—perfectly paired with breezy dresses—and don’t miss the best summer sandals to pack for your 2025 getaway.
