Five Affordable Summer Dresses You Should Consider

So it's finally warming up outside...is your closet ready? Summer is the perfect time for parties and outdoor social events. Before pulling out the same old capris or dress pants, consider reverting back to your roots and wearing...a dress. Dresses are perfect summer wear. Wearing a dress will keep you cool without compromising your stylish look.

Okay, so you're convinced to try the dress thing. Now, where should you look to find the perfect style for you? This is a list of ten summer dresses appropriate for most any occasion. These dresses are simple, yet classic and sophisticated. They can be worn alone, for more casual outings, or paired with trendy accessories for a dressier look. All of these dresses can be purchased online, through the websites linked through the titles. Read the descriptions and if they interest you, take a look at the dresses and consider buying!

(FYI: This is only a list of ideal dresses, it is not ordered for preference.)

1. Light Blue Strapless - target.com
Price: $39.99
This Dress is very classy, yet extremely simple. It is a plain strapless dress with a very tailored look. This style would be great for women without very feminine curves, as it accenuates the hips and bustline. Worn without jewelry and with plain shoes, this dress could be appropriate for a daytime outing. When paired with classic jewelry, dressier shoes and a sophisticated handbag, this dress will turn heads all night long. Check it out if you are searching for a classic and versitile dress for multiple occasions. Under $50, this dress is well worth the investment! (Target.com also has additional colors in the same style- for a more daring and bold look- check out the berry colored dress!).

2. Plaid Sundress - delias.com
Price: $49.50
Preppy is in this season, and plaid isn't just for the fall and winter seasons. This multi-colored, fashionable dress will be a treasured addition to ur wardrobe if you are planning for daytime events. Casual enough for a picnic, and dressy enough to be worn on a dinner date, this item is a real catch. The dress itself is also versitile, with an attached sash that may be tied in the front or back. Take a look at this dress, for under $50, you will not be disappointed!

3. Babydoll Dress - alloy.com
Price: $39.50
Inspired by your own childhood toys, babydoll styles have been carried over from the spring season. This dress comes in light blue and black. Try the light blue dress for daytime events, and the darker color for those heated nights. This dress will keep you cool, while looking your coolest. This style will look best on women with curves, and may help to downplay those hips your mother graciously passed down to you. It is an original twist on a style familiar to all girls, and a must-see for the very feminine-styled.

4. Pink-Striped Shirtdress- target.com
Price: $34.99
Another play on preppy, this shirtdress is the ultimate mix of comfort and style. The dress has an adjustable belt, allowing it toaccenuate any waistline without forcing you to hod your breathe. With generous folds on fabric in the skirt, this dress will compliment those with large bottoms, hips and thighs. The length of the dress (just below the knee), gives a graceful and elegant appearance. Consider pairing this dress with light (e.g. white or cream) flat sandals for a more casual look, or dark heels to dress it up. Wear hair back in a simple ponytail for a clean look, or in cascading curls for a charming southern belle style. Either way, this attire is sure to attract attention! And what a deal!

5. Paisley-Patterned Bow Dress - oldnavy.com
Price: $36.50
Call it a sophisticated Bohemian and try it on for size! The paisley pattern provides this dress the opportunity to display style without compromising the elegant design. Available in black or white, this dress is suitable for most any summertime event or outing. Because of its refined look, this dress would be more appropriate for nighttime, although the white may be appropriate for dressier daytime events. The empire waist gives even flat-chested women a flattering sillouhette. This dress may not appeal to all women, but it is guarenteed to be a favorite for more casual-styled women looking for a dressy piece.