I Work in Fashion in NYC—These 11 Pretty Dress Trends Are Beyond Stylish

Tessa Faye O'Connell is a contributor known for her work at various fashion houses, specializing in media and public relations, currently working at Coach as its global PR director. She's a mom of two, working to expand her influence in the fashion space through styling while also just making it out the door on time.

Well you know if I shared some of my most-loved tops,I had to move onto dresses next! While I do gravitate towards a good top, there’s nothing more apropos than throwing on a dress and sprinting out your door to catch the train. I love that there’s a fit to every mood: drinks with friends after work, weekend wear to birthday parties, business meetings. These styles mix and match with different shoes to fit the different vibe required of the day. Separately, while I move towards more basic colors for everyday wear during the cooler months, dresses are the one place I let myself get a bit more fun; leaning into prints that fit the summer mood and jive with warmer footwear options.

Here are a few of my favorites that I can’t wait to wear all summer long in this New York heat.

Drop-Waist Dress

This drop waist dress from The Great. has easily become one of my favorite pieces for the season. Easy to throw on, and chic with sandals, all their dresses are flattering and worth the price tag. I revisit each of them season after season, consistently reaching for them.

Embroidered Dress

I love an embroidered boho print that can only come out in summer months. Nothing feels better then matching the good weather. Pink City Prints has all my favorite ones for Summer!

Printed Dress

Natalie Martin is a spring/summer staple. Her easy prints and silk fabrics make throwing her dresses on an instant win. I also long a long sleeve in the summer as you oscillate in and out of air conditioning.

Gingham Dress

Believe it or not, this is one of my first Hill House purchases and I’m converted. Easy to throw on and extremely comfortable, I’m obsessed with gingham tops so why not gingham dresses.

Black T-Shirt Dress

As usual, one of my most asked about items is a simple black t-shirt dress. Arlo Mott makes an incredible one for the season, and the limit does not exist to how you can style. Whether with a blazer or jean jacket, heel or flat, it always delivers.

Crochet Dress

Crochet on vacation, crochet tops, why not crochet dresses!?

White Dress

White dresses are a must have all summer long, instantly special and makes you feel put together once your skin (with SPF 50) gets a little glow.

Night Gown-Style Dress

Controversial, I love the night gown-style look. I love the effortless notion of being able to throw on something with a little elegance, but casual essence to it that feels easy.

Slip Dress

All women need a slip dress that is a little more elegant, but can be dressed up or toned down.

Shirred Dress

Shirred style dresses are comfort, ease and effortless. I can’t stop myself from buying a good one when the opportunity presents.

Lace Dress

This lace number makes me feel like a Chloé girl for less (on a budget people!).