Yesterday, I posted a letter from the Ask Belle mailbag.  However, in the pre-August Recess frenzy, I failed to notice that B had requested casual dresses for every day not work dresses.  This was a massive comprehension error on my part (I swear I had a 36 ACT in Reading) that I now intend to rectify by posting four Summer dresses that are perfect for casual wear.  

The concept of the everyday dress means different things to different people.  I like a dress that looks more polished and expensive than it really is.  Take a dress like that, pair it with a metallic sandal and a cool pair of shades and no matter how high the mercury rises, you’re chic and casual.

Ruched Tank Dress DKNY (Bloomingdale’s, $122)

The tank dress is a classic.  It’s the dress you grab when you need to get dressed right now because you’re running late for brunch/the movies/etc.  

The ruching on this dress will cover a myriad of figure flaws.  The jersey will keep you cool.  And the bright color is fun and exciting, exactly what a Summer dress should be.

Warrior Print Maxi Dress (Forever 21, $27)

A jersey maxi is a fashion staple, but it can be a bit stifling in the D.C. heat.  Thus, I prefer something in a cotton voile.  This printed maxi can be belted with a cool braided or linen belt, or worn free flowing if you prefer a boho chic look.

Three Dots Cotton Knit Dress (Zappos, $158)

This dress has everything that I’m looking for in a Summer frock: cap sleeves, flowy skirt, bright color.  It I want to jazz it up, I’ll add a belt, a necklace or some Lucite bangles.  It would look great with neutral sandals or metallic flats, and it’s nice enough to wear to work during August Recess.

Ralph Lauren Isabella Dress (Bloomingdale’s, $140)

It’s paisley printed, so I should hate this dress, but I love it.  It’s perfect for warm weather brunches, coffee dates, and church.  The bright color and fun print make it very summery, but you can tone it down with a short-sleeve cardigan or jazz it up with a long necklace. 

If you haven’t noticed, I like to wear a wide variety of dresses and be a bit more dressed up than most people on the street.  I’d wear any of this dresses to a Summer event or to run errands in my neighborhood on a lazy Sunday.  Like I said, I prefer to be dressed up.