1. Style

Best White Dresses Summer 2012

From , former About.com Guide

A white dress in summer is as classic as it is lovely. It sets off a golden glow (faux, of course!), is daytime and nighttime appropriate, and only need a pretty pair of sandals to complete the outfit. Read on below to find some of the best picks for the season, including a little white dress, long white dress, shirt dress, tank dress, strapless dress and plus size option.

1. Short White Dress

short white dress

This dress is nowhere near as innocent as it looks. The NW3 Highgate Broderie Dress at ASOS features darling details including Broderie Anglaise lace and a Peter Pan collar, that look soft and sweet. But the mini-shift shape and nude slip underneath let them know you have a devilish side, too.

The NW3 Highgate Broderie Dress is 100 percent cotton, with a side zipeer and machine-washable. It's available in sizes two through 14.

2. Plus-Size White Dress

plus size white dress

Yes, a flattering plus-size spaghetti strap dress does exist. This Roaman's Smock Cutout Maxi Dress by Denim 24/7 has adjustable straps that are wide enough to wear a bra underneath and a smocked front and back bodice. The maxi dress has a cutout design and embroidery at the bottom with a ruffle hem. Pair with a long gold and turquoise necklace for a Grecian look.

Roaman's Smock Cutout Maxi Dress by Denim 24/7 is rayon with cotton voile lining and machine-washable. It's available in sizes 14W-16W and also comes in magenta.

3. Strapless White Dress

strapless white dress

Pair this flirty frock with colorful sandals and a handbag and you're ready for a night on the town. The Old Navy Embroidered Tube Dress has pretty white and cream detailing on the bottom and a scalloped hem. It has a seamed front, grip tape along the inside edge and a smocked back with side half-zip closure all to helps keep the dress in place.

The Old Navy Embroidered Tube Dress is 100 percent cotton and machine-washable. It's available in sizes zero through 14.

4. White Maxi Dress

long white dress

This dress was made for lazy weekend mornings—it's the perfect thing to slip on for a late Sunday brunch at your favorite outdoor café. The Loft Twist-Tie dress is gathered beneath neckline and has a gathered elasticized waist. The bodice is fully lined.

The Loft Twist-Tie dress is 91 percent rayon and 9 percent Spandex and is machine-washable. It's available in sizes extra-small through large.

5. White Tank Dress

white tank dress

A white dress, like this Madewell Summertime Tankdress, can double as a swimsuit cover up. This version is slightly fitted with a straight skirt. Wear it over a longer, darker slip or skirt for a more covered up look when you're running around town.

The Madewell Summertime Tankdress is 100 percent cotton and is machine-washable. It's available in sizes extra-extra small through extra large and also comes in gray, fuchsia, coral and lemon.

6. White Shirt Dress

white shirt dress

If you want to wear white to the office, try this Roll-Sleeve Shirt Dress from the Gap. It features long sleeves with two-button cuffs that can be rolled up or down. It has a tie-waist so it's more figure-flattering than the average shirt dress. Bonus: the double-layer skirt means it's 100 percent opaque so you don't have to worry about wearing a slip.

The Gap Roll-Sleeve Shirt Dress is 100 percent cotton and machine-washable. It's available in sizes extra-small through extra-extra large.

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