While summer trends come and go, there’s one that seems to keep coming back each year, and that’s the summer knit dress trend. We love knitwear because it’s so stylish, and requires minimal effort to look absolutely fabulous. While you can rock knitwear all year long, summer seems to be especially popular for this look. But why is that? Glad you asked, because in today’s piece, we’re going to dive a little deeper into:

• Why summer knit dresses are so popular (including the top places to snag one)
• Knit summer dresses you need in your closet now
• What to wear with your stylish summer knit dress

Why are summer knit dresses so popular?

Stylishly chic for all seasons, especially the warmer ones

Knit dresses are really making a splash this season, and it’s easy to see why. Not only are they some of the most comfortable dresses you can wear (which is welcome in warmer weather!) but they’re lightweight, flattering, don’t wrinkle super easily, and are easy to accessorize. They’re also available in mini, midi, and maxi lengths, so there’s literally a knit dress that’s perfect for every body, and every occasion. 

You can also find them in all kinds of colour palettes. If you want to rock something bright and neon for those hot days and nights on vacation, knit dresses are the way to go. With a vibrant color you’re definitely going to stand out from the crowd and exude those tropical vibes. But knit dresses are also perfect for everyday, and neutral colours are a great way to stay comfortable but also look polished for your workday or social occasions. Whether you want to stick to white, gray, tan, or other muted neutrals, you can’t go wrong with knit dresses in these colours. 

Where can I grab a summer knit dress?

Knit dresses are popping up all over the place this summer, and are popular for everything from work, to beach cover ups. One of our favorite places to score summer knit dresses is Shopbop, which is your home for all kinds of designer clothing. Whether you’re looking for a mini knit dress perfect for a night out with friends, or you need an understated midi knit dress that’s perfectly comfortable for running errands in, you’ll find it here.

You can also find lots of knit dresses at all your favorite department stores such as:

• Nordstrom (and Nordstrom’s Rack)
• Bloomingdales
• Neiman Marcus
• Saks Fifth Avenue
• And more!

Most online women’s clothing stores carry knit dresses for the summer, but don’t forget to check out resale sites like Poshmark, eBay, and ThredUP for some serious deals on knit dresses this summer as well. 

Knit summer dresses we love

Pick up any of these knit dresses for a look you’re going to love all summer

If you’re looking for a knit dress that just screams summer, you can’t go wrong with this Simkhai Crochet Mini Dress. It has all kinds of retro appeal, from the crocheted circle hemline, to the bright yellow color. This mini dress is ready for all kinds of summer fun, and would be perfect to bring on your next vacation. It is also a great piece to wear for brunch dates with friends, or sightseeing in a new city! You’ll love the mini length that’s enhanced with a patchwork hem, as well as the johnny collar and cuffs. 

Pick up this gorgeous summer dress right now at Shopbop!

Knit tank dresses

If you’re specifically looking for a knit tank dress, then consider grabbing this Staud Dana Dress in a stunning ombre that’s coral pink/white. The fabric is lightweight and ribbed, which makes it perfect for summertime wear, and the pull over design means it’s going to be comfortable and move with your body. No restrictive fabric here! 

The ribbed pattern ensures this looks good on any body shape, and the classy homecoming dresses of midi length means it’s ideal to transition from daytime to nighttime. If you’re traveling, you’ll also love that it’s a breeze to pack and you won’t need to worry about so many wrinkles.

Make sure to grab this dress at Shopbop right now!

Another stunning midi tank knit dress is Victoria Beckham’s Cut Out Midi Dress. This dress features a midweight material, with a compact knit design. The cobalt color is perfect for summertime, as is the cutout design and crew neck at the front. This dress would be perfect for an evening out at a special occasion, or in the office with a blazer, jacket, or sweater over it. Pair it with mules or kitten heels, and you have a polished outfit, no matter what your plans are!

Head over to Shopbop and pick up this dress!

Knit maxi dresses

Knit maxi dresses are the way to go if you’re looking for easy, breezy style this summer. You don’t have to be on vacation to appreciate how comfortable maxi dresses are, and how flattering they are on all figures. That’s why we love the “ba&sh” Wendy Dress because it’s perfect for all kinds of summer fun. Take it on vacation with you, wear it to a backyard BBQ, or put it on for your favorite summer concert. No matter where you go, you’ll look fantastic in this white knit dress. 

The tiered skirt and handkerchief hem float around the ankles, and the midweight fabric and pull over design are perfect for the warmer weather. Just add sandals and you’re ready to go!

Make sure to grab this knit summer dress at Shopbop!

Looking for a knit maxi dress for a special occasion? Then consider picking up the Jaquemus La Robe Malle Alca Dress. This beautiful design is a stunner, and the red colour will ensure you stand out from all the black at your formal affair. Whether you’re going to the symphony, an awards dinner, or on a date with your significant other, this dress will impress. You’ll love the maxi length and the thin, twisted straps that transition to open shoulders at the back. The cowl neck is a nice touch, as is the back slit, and pull over design.

Pair with your favorite pair of heels or strappy sandals and enjoy all the attention!
Pick up this knit dress now at Shopbop!

Summer knit dress with pockets

Pockets make every dress better, including knit dresses. If you want something a little more casual for everyday wear, pick up the Kule Virginie Sweater Dress. This mini dress has a preppy vibe that includes front pockets as well as patch pockets. It also features a V neckline and a button placket, and would pair perfectly with your favorite pair of sneakers or slides. Layer it with a cardigan sweater or a blazer for the perfect preppy look you can wear anywhere. 

Shopbop has this dress on sale right now!

What to wear with a summer knit dress

What are some of the best ways to accessorise a summer knit dress?

As you can see, there are all kinds of summer knit dress styles, perfect for any occasion, day or night. But you’ve got to include some accessories to complete your look!

Shoes

Depending on the occasion, you can pull off any shoe with a knit summer dress. However, our go-to suggestion is definitely sandals. Whether that means flip flops, slides, or strappy heels, showing your toes off in the summer is a must—especially with a knit dress. If you have a more formal occasion, feel free to wear a great pair of heels.

Jewellery

Your jewellery depends not only on your personal style, but the color of your dress. If you’ve got a knitted dress that’s bright pink, green, or orange, you might want to consider wearing minimal jewellery, or smaller pieces that won’t compete with your dress. If you have a neutral knit, you can always choose a statement piece such as a large bracelet, chandelier necklace, or large hoop earrings. 

Bags

This is also occasion dependent! Formal and going out dresses look great with a small clutch or mini cross body to hold all your essentials. But if you’re going boho for a beach trip, a large bucket bag or tote would be perfect.

There are all kinds of ways to wear the summer knit dress trend. Whether it’s short and flirty, or long and flowing, you’re going to look good in these dresses no matter what!

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