DAILY FINDS

7 Summer Work Dresses Worth an Investment

Keep your cool at work this summer: Slip into a lightweight, office-appropriate dress you'll wear year after year.

Wilfred Sonnet Dress, $185, aritzia.com

Give your structured blazers a dose of femininity with layers of wispy raspberry silk. While the knee-length hem and modest neckline work for the office, its swishy silhouette can also mix it up at a summer soiree.




Loft Embroidered Linen Cotton Dress, $89.50, Loft

This ivory linen-and-cotton sheath is cool and breathable yet maintains elegance, thanks to its crisp tailoring and intricate embroidery.




Cuyana Silk Shift Dress, $250, cuyana.com

Here's a design that's real simple. Gently gliding over curves, the classic shift made of rich cobalt silk, from the just launched Cuyana Collection, has a high-low hem that offers an added level of sophistication. It transcends occasions too: Wear it with a statement necklace and strappy heels for evenings out or with a blazer and pumps at the office.




424 Fifth Striped Fit and Flare Dress, $74.50, lordandtaylor.com

Nautical stripes impart seaside charm to a pleated cotton-blend dress. And no need to be wary of those horizontal stripes, since the strategic princess seaming and full skirt flatter the shape.




Ann Taylor Striped Gingham Cross Front Dress, $139, Ann Taylor

This adorable cotton dress features crossover panels to whittle the waist, while the delicate blue-and-white pinstripes are beautifully suited for sunny summer days.




Eliza J Belted A-Line Dress, $138, Nordstrom

Thanks to a prim shape, you can get away with a bright all-over print for the office. If you need to more covered up, layer this spotted stretch-cotton number with a belted cardigan and add kitten heels.




Amy Matto Cipriano Dress, $328, Amazon

Searching for a dress that has sleeves but won't be sweltering in humid weather? This cap-sleeved cotton-blend sheath has a professional cut, and tiny polka dots for a lighthearted look.