Summer Formal Dresses: How to Stay Cool While Looking Chic

There’s so much to love about summer weather – longer days with beautiful sunsets, lots of bright blooms and fresh greenery, gorgeous starry nights…the list could go on and on. Because it’s such a beautiful time of year, there are tons of semi-formal and formal events during the summer. But one sneaky thing people forget about when planning their summer events: it’s hotter than hot under layers of fabric in a formal dress! Luckily there are a few ways to keep your cool when dressing up for a stylish soiree during the sweltering summer months. See our tips and tricks below for picking the perfect summer formal dress and be sure to shop our formal collection for your next fancy function.

Pick a wrap dress

Wrap styles allow you to adjust how tight your dress is and offer plenty of ventilation through their built in slits. Our Magical Movement Periwinkle Blue Wrap Maxi Dress is a breezy, backless style you can wear to summer weddings, parties and beyond.

Look for strategic ventilation

While the Bloom On Rust Red Floral Print Maxi Dress looks like your traditional maxi from the front, a small ruffled cutout in the back offers some relief from high temps. Pair that with it’s flowing skirt and light fabric and you have the perfect printed dress for any party.

Try a sheath with cutouts

When you want to show off your shape without sacrificing comfort, look to a sheath dress for a chic alternative to bodycon styles. The set-in waist and sheath skirt of the Lara White Sleeveless Cutout Midi Dress highlight your curves without constraining you, while the plunging back and neckline and subtle cutouts add interest to the simple silhouette.

Go flowy

Look no further than the One Wish Red Lace Midi Dress for a fun and flirty formal look. Flowy, handkerchief hems are a great way to keep comfortable during a summer event and the unlined portion of the lace skirt allows for more breathability. Add some dewy makeup for a suble glow and you are ready to go!

Opt for breathable or natural fabrics

One of the easiest ways to make your formal dress more comfortable in the heat is to pick one made out of natural fibers or gauzy, woven fabrics. The Fete Ready Periwinkle Blue Two-Piece Maxi Dress is perfectly breezy and the two-piece style is totally on trend for summer 2018.

How do you stay cool during summer formal events? Tell us your tips and tricks in the comments and show us how you rock your formalwear on Instagram @lulus with #lovelulus!

xo