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Weddings, baby showers and dinner dates are special occasions that require a little extra something, something from your closet. Of course, you have go-to options that you wear on repeat, but for big events, you need dresses that deliver on sophistication, style and comfort. Amazon’s Bestseller Hub is filled with cocktail dresses, elevated maxis and flattering sundresses that fit the bill without costing a fortune.
These dresses not only deliver that ‘rich mom’ aesthetic, but they also have hundreds (if not, thousands) of five-star ratings from shoppers who give them their seal of approval. All you have to do is look at these dresses to see why. Each one oozes expensive vibes thanks to A-line silhouettes, ruffle details, breezy fabrics and tons of colors and patterns — all under $45.
17 Elegant Summer Dresses Under $45 on Amazon
1. Our Favorite: What’s not to love about this flowy maxi dress? It has a stretchy smocked bodice, ruffles and sweet bow tie shoulder straps that we can’t get over. Oh, and it has 5,200 five-star ratings to date.
2. Perfect Puff: This A-line dress delivers serious coquette core vibes thanks to the puffed sleeves, smocked top and tiered skirt. We wouldn’t be surprised if you wore it while strolling the Parisian countryside.
3. Coastal Chic: Don’t forget to pack this striped maxi on your next vacation! The simple pattern, beachy color palette and breezy cotton material make it perfect for trips to the coast.
4. Flower Child: Designed with lightweight fabrics and a waist-cinching design, this floral-printed dress is a total upgrade from your everyday go-to.
5. Feminine Flair: Whether you’re heading to the country club or church, why not do so in a pretty, comfy dress? This sleeveless pick has a conservative neckline and a long skirt to cover all your bases while still giving you an hourglass figure.
6. Picnic Pick: If you need something a little more casual, go with this flouncy gingham dress. In fact, the pattern is the style of the summer!
7. Sleek and Sound: The asymmetrical neckline and pleated skirt on this elegant swing dress are everything. The comfy fabric seriously hugs your curves in the best way, too.
8. Santorini Save: Can’t you see yourself roaming the Greek isles while wearing this boho-style dress? This particular option has a pretty European-inspired pattern and a blue and white color palette that’s so spot on.
9. Wedding Guest Must: Wedding guest dress can be expensive, but this pretty halterneck option is perfect for the big event without costing a fortune.
10. Flirty Find: Vacations in the tropics call for a comfortable dress that’s just a little sexy. You get the best of both worlds with this tube top pick that hugs your curves without making you sweat.
11. Romantic Revival: We love the look of this cocktail dress that has a mermaid fit and a ruffle-like high-low hem for a fun look.
12. Brunch Babe: Meet the girls for a bite to eat while wearing this breezy maxi dress that’ll earn you tons of compliments.
13. Elevated Essential: Have you ever seen such a sophisticated dress for under $30? This midi pick is fitted up top, but becomes increasingly breezy at the bottom. Plus, the ribbed details set it apart from the rest.
14. Wrap Wonder: Wrap dresses are known for cleverly accentuating the waist, which is why thousands of shoppers are obsessed with this exciting ruffle number.
15. Plus Pockets: Any dress that has hidden pockets is a win in our book. In addition to featuring dainty details like a tiered skirt and bow-tie straps, this airy sundress has functional pockets that are deep enough to hold a lip balm or phone.
16. Lacey Love: Earning 7,400 five-star ratings so far, you can see why shoppers are in love with this lace-embellished maxi dress. We were drawn to the brick red color, but it’s also available in light blue, apricot, pink, black and more.
17. LBD: Everyone needs a little black dress, and this cute option hits all the right notes, thanks to a relaxed fit that you’ll want to wear over and over.
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