12 best maxi dresses for every style and budget in 2024

As we have our eyes on the hottest spring fashion drops, we can’t help but double-tap and obsess over maxi dresses.

Much like waitlist-inducing midi dresses, spring dresses and cocktail dresses (oh, and the white dresses that’ll take you from springtime to summertime real quick), these dresses are not only vacation-ready but also a wonderful option for special occasions.

Not to mention, they’ll keep you a bit warm thanks to their length, offering a flowy, easy-breezy option that’s akin to some of your most-worn t-shirt dresses hanging in your wardrobe.

RELATED: Best vacation brands we reviewed

We researched a rotisserie of retailers to rack up the 12 best maxi dresses that you can add to your cart, order and show off ASAP. With these styles, you’ll be dreaming of the sunnier days ahead.

Best Maxi Dresses

• Best Budget Maxi Dresse: ANRABESS Kimono Wrap Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Full suite of floral patterns and colors to choose from
  • Well-made fabric
  • Ships fast, especially with an Amazon Prime membership

  Cons:

  • Some shoppers say it’s not as flattering on larger busts

  Among Amazon’s haul of dresses, ANRABESS is one of our favorite brands, simply because it’s one of the most well-made private labels. That said, the Kimono Wrap Maxi Dress is our signature favorite, complete with a lovely floral pattern that you’ll want to wear whenever you’re in the sunshine.

  For a reasonable price of $50, you’ll want to pick up additional prints and hues, too. This particular style boasts more than 4,000 rave reviews among Amazon shoppers, breathable 3/4-inch sleeves and a versatile charm that’s difficult to ignore.

  AMAZON $49.99

• Old Navy Fit & Flare Rib-Knit Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • A flattering style that can be dressed up or down
  • Breathable fabric, even for the black color
  • Appealing strap detailing and neckline

  Cons:

  • May be too basic for some shoppers

  New from Old Navy, the Fit & Flare Rib-Knit Maxi Dress hugs in all the right places. Not to mention, it’s a surefire dupe of the popular SKIMS dress. Kim K, who?

  Aside from its budget-friendly price point, we love its solid-colored, basic silhouette that can either be dressed up or down. Old Navy has some of our favorite dresses that have lasted for years and years, with them being some of the easiest to slip on when you’re on a time crunch.

  OLD NAVY $39.99

  (Related: Best T-Shirt Dresses)

• Best Maxi Dress Worth the Splurge: Farm Rio Sleeveless Tiered Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Stellar, unique pattern
  • Lovely bow-tie sleeves
  • Quality material that fits true to size, based on testing

  Cons:

  • The price point may be unreachable for some

  Say it with us: say yes to the dress. There’s nothing more picturesque and swoon-worthy for your next vacation than the Farm Rio Sleeveless Tiered Maxi Dress. While a splurge, its tiered, cake-esque design is both flattering and photogenic, while its jungle-inspired print is eye-catching and unique.

  We’ve rented Farm Rio when we reviewed the clothing rental service nuuly, and we’re still thinking about its easy-breezy fabrics. From this dress’ square neckline to bow-tie straps, we’re absolutely in love.

  ANTHROPOLOGIE $238.00

• Best Plus Size Maxi Dress: MakeMeChic Plus Size Boho Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Wide variety of prints and colors to choose from
  • Available up to 4X
  • Stretchy, breathable material

  Cons:

  • Some shoppers may find the ribbed bust a bit too child-like

  Shopping for plus-size clothing can be a difficult feat, but it doesn’t have to be. Luckily, the MakeMeChic Plus Size Boho Maxi Dress is an easy add-to-cart purchase that we wholly recommend, thanks to its comfortable stretch, breathability and feminine flair.

  With nearly 2,000 glistening reviews among shoppers, this style is one we anticipate will be the talk of the summer. With flounce sleeves and a scooped neckline, you’ll want to pair it with your most comfortable heels for any occasion.

  AMAZON $48.99

• Best Petite Maxi Dress: Petal & Pup Naira Pleated Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • A photogenic silhouette that’s ideal for formal and semi-formal occasions alike
  • Adjustable straps with an invisible zipper
  • Lightweight materials with a true-to-size fit, based on testing
  • Stunning shade assortment

  Cons:

  • May not be the best for bigger busts as it fits true to size but may be tighter at the top, depending on if you wear a bra
  • Size range could be more generous

  The Petal & Pup Naira Pleated Maxi Dress is found within our closets and is one of those dresses that just makes you feel gorgeous. Whether you’re a future wedding guest or looking to elevate your date night looks when the weather is agreeable, this vertical pleated number is truly one we gloss over.

  Petal & Pup is also one of the best brands we can’t stop shopping from, whether we’re vacation shopping or looking to revamp our work wardrobes. This dress runs true to size and is especially flattering in the upper and waist areas.

  PETAL & PUP $119.00

• Best Long Sleeve Maxi Dress: Banana Republic Blouson Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Glamorous bubble sleeve detailing
  • Fair price point
  • Extremely well-made materials with a true-to-size fit, based on testing

  Cons:

  • Some shoppers may find it to be not as versatile as some other options

  When Banana Republic styles are more than 50% off, we’re all ears. Shop the Banana Republic Blouson Maxi Dress before the price goes down. It’s flattering for any age and body type and one you’re sure to receive several compliments on.

  We’re consistently impressed with the brand’s unbeatable quality, too. Whether you’re purchasing work pants or a new dress, you’re sure to be grabbing a style that’ll last a while. Plus, these bubble sleeves are supreme.

  BANANA REPUBLIC $150.00 $60.00

• Best Denim Maxi Dress: Urban Renewal Remade Denim Overall Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Well-made, relaxed fit
  • Suitable for a variety of occasions
  • Sustainable materials and design

  Cons:

  • Some shoppers may find it to be too eccentric for their liking

  Part jumpsuit, part denim skirt, the Urban Renewal Remade Denim Overall Maxi Dress is rocking the best of both worlds. Even Hannah Montana would be proud.

  Sourced from Urban Outfitters’ sustainable Urban Renewal line, you’ll feel good about your purchase because it was consciously designed. Not only is this farmhouse chic-inspired number a conversation piece but it’s ethically and well-made, serving you well for all the warm days ahead.

  URBAN OUTFITTERS $149.00

• Best Satin Maxi Dress: Abercrombie Draped Skirt Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Unique, asymmetrical design
  • Extra flattering, thanks to the side slit and center-seam ruching
  • Perfect for semi-formal and formal occasions alike
  • Fits true to size, based on testing

  Cons:

  • The price point may be unreachable for some
  • Sellout risk

  Oh Abercrombie, how we love you. There’s nothing more semi-formal and stunning than the Draped Skirt Maxi Dress, available in a wonderful selection of dreamy shades to color your wardrobe. With a cinched waist coupled with flattering ruching, it’s a style that’s sure to look great on anyone, wherever you’re headed.

  We also *adore* Abercrombie, especially after reviewing the lion’s share of the brand. From feel-good jeans to multi-purpose bodysuits, this dress isn’t the only item you should be adding to your cart, simply because every fabric is elegant to the touch.

  ABERCROMBIE $130.00

• Best Cut-Out Maxi Dress: Baobab Atlas Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Not as revealing as some other cut-out dresses on the market
  • Lovely color
  • Fits true to size, based on testing

  Cons:

  • The price point may be unreachable for some
  • Sellout risk

  Free People is known for its eccentric yet confident-driving styles, as is the case with the splurge-worthy Baobab Atlas Dress. Its all-over glistening appeal has us mentally styling it, and we *may* or may not be sending this to everyone we know IRL.

  Paired with your finest nude heels or sandals, this cut-out dress is meant to turn heads. It’s subtly sexy thanks to its lower neckline and side slit, and we 100% endorse your purchase. You’re welcome.

  FREE PEOPLE $285.00

• Best Beachy Maxi Dress: AQUA Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Flattering color and off-the-shoulder sleeve detailing
  • Perfect for spring and summer vacations
  • The well-fitting strapless bust section that stays in place

  Cons:

  • May be heavier when tried on, based on the full skirt

  Doesn’t the AQUA Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress just scream “resort?” We think so, and we’re completely taken in by this sunny yellow shade and off-the-shoulder ruffle sleeves. With a tiered, full skirt and a strapless bodice, the style couldn’t be more add-to-cart-worthy.

  Additionally, the price is fair, given how many Bloomingdale’s picks are more expensive. Plus, it’s worth treating yourself to a feel-good vacation dress, and this one has our signed and sealed vote as one of our favorite dresses as of late.

  BLOOMINGDALE’S $128.00

• Best Halter Maxi Dress: VICI Medford Printed Halter Maxi Dress

  

  Pros:

  • The breathable, striking fabric
  • Ideal for your next resort vacation
  • Fits true to size, based on testing

  Cons:

  • May become wrinkled more quickly than some other styles, based on thinner material

  For lightweight and incredible patterns, there’s none other than VICI for the job. The Medford Printed Halter Maxi Dress is a style we predict will sell out fast, as its summertime-perfect head-to-toe dress has one of the most different and likable patterns to appease any wardrobe.

  With bust ruching and pops of purple and orange, it’s the dress that’s giving neutral, but with a touch of statement. We also love how VICI’s styles fit and the somewhat casual presence each piece evokes.

  VICI $98.00

• Best Linen Maxi Dress: Mango V-Neckline Linen Dress

  

  Pros:

  • Breathable, well-made fabric
  • Effortless fit
  • Intricate back detailing

  Cons:

  • Some shoppers may find the style too plain

  If linen dresses are your thing, check out Mango’s fashion drops. Its V-Neckline Linen Dress is simple, to the point and a style that’s so easy to slip into. Plus, its draped feel and breathable material is one that you’ll want to pack with you on every vacation. Hey, it’s even good for an upscale weekend brunch.

  The star of the show is its braided straps and crossover back, the epitome of “business in the front, party in the back.” Overall, it’s a lovely maxi dress for linen-wanting shoppers.

  (Related: Best linen dresses in every style)

  MANGO $129.99

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