7 Pro Tips On How To Stop Being A People Pleaser

how to stop being a people pleaser

It feels good to do nice things for others. After all, one of Gary Chapman’s Five Love Languagesis acts of service, AKA doing nice things to bring joy and ease to someone else’s life. But there’s a fine line between serving others from a place of love, and constantly putting someone else’s needs before your own.

If you identify with the latter, you may be a bit of a people-pleaser. There are lots of different reasons someone could fall into people-pleasing, but it ultimately can have a negative effect on your self-esteem and relationships. People-pleasing does a disservice to the pleaser, oftentimes leaving them feeling disempowered or burnt out.

So in the name of personal empowerment and self-prioritizing, I spoke to two mental health professionals—Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, Elizabeth Mateer and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Crystal Britt — to put together a guide on how to stop people-pleasing. Here are some steps you can take when you’re ready.

Prioritize Your Own Needs And Desires

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You know when you’re on a plane and the flight attendant tells you to put your mask on first in case of an emergency? The first step to people-pleasing is much the same. Before you can meet someone else’s needs, you must meet your own. This is not only for your sanity, but for your safety and well-being.

While you may extend (or overextend) yourself for the sake of others, they might not be obligated to do the same, meaning your needs might not be met at all if not by you. Mateer says, “Make a list of your physical and emotional needs in different life categories like work, relationships, family, or social life. Once you have that list, you can develop strategies to work towards prioritizing your needs in each area.”

Take Note When You Feel Resistance And Discomfort

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While you may extend (or overextend) yourself for the sake of others, they might not be obligated to do the same, meaning your needs might not be met at all if not by you. Mateer says, “Make a list of your physical and emotional needs in different life categories like work, relationships, family, or social life. Once you have that list, you can develop strategies to work towards prioritizing your needs in each area.”

As a people-pleaser, your first instinct is typically to agree to something, even if you don’t want to. Notice your hesitation and how you feel when you say “yes.” Are you immediately uncomfortable? Is it hard to imagine how you will get the task done? Listen to this hesitation and honor it.

Britt says, “Honor those feelings. In practical terms that means deciding consciously what you’d like to actually do in this situation. Would you like to decline? Would you like to say, ‘Thanks so much for thinking of me, but my plate is really full right now. Could you keep me in mind next time though?’ Or would you genuinely like to say ‘yes?’ Honor your feelings before you respond.”

Learn To Tolerate *Some* Discomfort

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As a people-pleaser, your first instinct is typically to agree to something, even if you don’t want to. Notice your hesitation and how you feel when you say “yes.” Are you immediately uncomfortable? Is it hard to imagine how you will get the task done? Listen to this hesitation and honor it.

Britt says, “Honor those feelings. In practical terms that means deciding consciously what you’d like to actually do in this situation. Would you like to decline? Would you like to say, ‘Thanks so much for thinking of me, but my plate is really full right now. Could you keep me in mind next time though?’ Or would you genuinely like to say ‘yes?’ Honor your feelings before you respond.”

Putting yourself first can feel very uncomfortable, but Mateer says you should learn to tolerate this new feeling. “Recognize that saying ‘no’ or setting boundaries may be uncomfortable at first,” they say, “but that discomfort is a natural part of personal growth and learning to prioritize your own needs.”

Over time, it’ll get easier to say no and enforce your boundaries. If the person you’re pleasing truly cares about you, not only should they honor your boundaries, but they should respect and remember them moving forward.

Set Clear Boundaries

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Boundary-building can be difficult because it requires you to figure out where you stop and where others start. When asked to do something, you may be inclined to say “yes,” but it’s important to note that your response lives on a spectrum. Try modifying your “yes,” with a “yes, but,” or “yes, if” so that you’re clear about which circumstances you’re willing to perform under.

“It can be helpful to think of how you will enforce a boundary before you communicate it to another person,” Mateer says. “For example, if you’ve set the boundary of staying in to recharge and you know a friend might still pressure you to go out, practice saying aloud that you will be staying in for an ‘outside’ reason, such as walking your dog or having an early morning. Eventually, with practice, you will get better at simply saying ‘because this is what I need.’”

Practice Saying No

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Saying no might be one of the hardest boundaries to set, but it’s one of the most important. Similar to modifying your yeses, you can also modify your nos so you don’t lose yourself in the task. Try saying “no, unless” or “no, but I can do [this] instead.” You can even offer to think about it before giving a final answer.

Britt also suggests an exercise where her clients return their coffee if it isn’t the drink they ordered, or if they changed their mind. She says, “Practicing saying ‘no’ in little ways helps you get better at setting bigger boundaries.”

Have Compassion For Yourself

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Yes, you read that right — give yourself some grace. You’re honoring your needs and putting yourself first; that’s not an easy thing to do. It’s going to take practice, but the more often you draw the line, the less people will cross it.

“To stop people-pleasing takes practice,” Britt says, “and that means you’ll fail and try again. That’s okay! No one gets it right the first time. If you need help, consider working with a therapist — let them know you’d specifically like to work on people-pleasing tendencies!”

Seek Outside Support

Image via Polina Zimmerman / PEXELS

Like Britt said, you can seek professional support from a mental health professional to help you stop people-pleasing. You can also rely on your friends and family; trust that if they love you, they will reciprocate the support you so readily extend to them.

“Tell the supportive people in your life that you are working on reducing your people-pleasing tendencies,” Mateer says. “They should respect your boundaries and encourage you to prioritize your own needs.”

Header image via KoolShooters / PEXELS

We can't wait to see Florence Pugh's performance tug at our heartstrings in We Live In Time — especially given all the talk about how spicy her chemistry is with Andrew Garfield. However, all this talk about chemistry has us wondering...who IS Florence dating these days, if not Andrew?

As of late, it seems like Florence is linked to fellow actor, Finn Cole. Here's everything we know so far about the alleged new couple!

Who has Florence Pugh dated before?

Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

Prior to now, Florence dated Zach Braff and Charlie Gooch before those relationships ultimately ended. She recently spoke to British Vogue about how much "bullying" impacted her relationship with Zach, acknowledging that during the three years they were together were "quite private" for a while. She said, "I think any relationship in this limelight is going to be stressed.”

Now all that matters is the rumored bond she's building with Finn.

A Quick Timeline Of Florence Pugh And Finn Cole's Relationship

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2017 — Fans Take Notice Of Florence And Finn's Friendship

Florence and Pugh have known each other for a while, but attentive fans noticed the actress began frequently supporting whatever Finn shared on Instagram beginning in 2017. Any post — from personal updates to his time on Peaky Blinders — received a like from Florence (via Cosmopolitan).

September 3, 2024 — Florence And Finn Attend The Premiere Of The Perfect Couple In London

The two showed up to the East London premiere of The Perfect Couple, and were even seen at the party following the event (via The Sun). They apparently were comfortable in each other's as they seemed to be "having a great time." At the same time, a source noticed the pair seemed to be intentional about not being "pictured or seen" together. Prior to this, Florence and Finn were seen having a good time at the Glastonbury Festival (via Daily Mail).

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

September 18, 2024 — Florence Cheekily Admits She's Seeing Someone New

Finn Cole's kept quiet about anything pertaining his relationship status, but Florence has offered a unique insight into hers without naming who she's dating. "We are figuring what we actually are. And I think for the first time, I’m not allowing myself to go on a roller-coaster," she said (via British Vogue).

Admitting she's prone to falling head over heels in love, the actress further explained her reasoning for taking things slow. "I’m allowing myself to take time to let something evolve and let it be completely real to its core, as opposed to racing into that," she said.

What else has Florence Pugh starred in?

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Florence Pugh has starred in a few groundbreaking films that have aided in her burgeoning acting career. She stunned audiences with her roles as Dani in Midsommar, Amy March in Little Women, Yelena Belova in Black Widow, Alice in Don't Worry Darling, Jean Tatlock Oppenheimer, and as Princess Irulan in Dune 2.

Where else have we seen Finn Cole?

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In addition to starring in Peaky Blinders as Michael Grey, Finn Cole is also known for Animal Kingdom as Joshua 'J' Cody, Slaughterhouse Rulez as Don Wallace, and F9: The Fast Saga as Young Jakob.

Clearly Florence Pugh isn't ready to spill the beans about her rumored new boyfriend Finn Cole just yet, and that's okay! We'll be here waiting for the joyous day she decides to let everyone in that part of her world again.

Can't get enough of our favorite celebrity couples? Follow us on Facebook for all the best celeb news!

Grab your surfboard and your cutest 'kini because Outer Banks season 4 part 1 is finally here!! Like all you Pogues out there, I've been waiting for this show to return for more than a year — and I don't think I'll ever stop talking about it. We're back on the OBX, the Pogues vs. Kooks rivalry has returned, and we get plenty of adorable JJ and Kiara moments. Here's every thought I had watching the Outer Banks season 4 premiere.

1. I love Papa Heyward — but I can also see where Kie's parents are coming from.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

I know Kiara's parents get a bad rep on the show, but I understand where their brains are at. To them, their teenage (unsupervised) daughter has gone totally off the rails and won't listen to anything they say. Not to mention she steals their car. Was sending her to Kitty Hawk the right move? No, but now that's she's 18, establishing some boundaries might be.

2. THE POGUES ARE FINALLY RICH!! (Um, why isn't JJ happy?)

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Woogity woogity! After four years of treasure hunts and defying the odds, our ragtag group of surfers finally cashed in the gold for over a million US dollars. But while everyone is over the moon, JJ looks a little less pleased at the prospect of having almost as much money as Rafe and Topper. Kie reassures him the cash won't turn them into Kooks, but wouldn't he have thought of that before now?

3. Pope deserves so much hype — and a huge cut of the money TBH.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

C'mon Pope, with the budget and the charter shop business plans. We love a forward thinker. He's the ultimate brains behind the operation here, and he absolutely does not get enough credit. He willingly carries so much of the financial responsibility and makes a ton of sacrifices (like never finishing school). Team Pope 4ever.

4. Buying JJ's house after John B.'s home burned to the ground makes me EMOTIONAL.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Outer Banks fans have come to know and love The Chateau — which is why Topper setting the house on fire in Outer Banks season 3 was devastating. I'm so glad they're able to establish a new home, and redeem JJ's house at the same time.

Rumor had it season 4 would focus on JJ, and it's already shaping up to be that way. I love him, your honor.

5. Once again, I need EVERYTHING the girls are wearing.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Outer Banks' costumes are always incredible, and I love every single look. Cleo looks better in a tank top or a jersey than literally anyone, and I need Sarah's pink top and overalls expeditiously. It feels like Kie's already had more hairstyles and accessories in this first episode than she's had in the previous three seasons combined, and I'm obsessed.

6. Wow, these kids are handy. Wouldn't they need, like, a contractor?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Don't get me wrong, I know some pretty handy young adults. But having six 18-year-olds build a dock and a bait, tackle, and charter shop from the ground up is some serious teen drama logic. Also watching them hang out on the dock makes me miss the coast!! (Although I do not miss the swamp).

7. JJ and Kiara are still the ultimate 'Outer Banks' couple.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

JJ's hilarious happy dance, followed by Kiara telling JJ she loves him, might be my favorite moment from the opening episode. Although I couldn't help but notice JJ didn't say it back. Is this going to become a devastating "I should have told her" moment? I've been hurt by too many teen dramas in the past!!!

8. I'm very impressed by the attention to detail.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Watching Cleo make sandwiches already made me hungry, but I got even hungrier when I noticed she was using Duke's mayonnaise. This is the only correct mayo to eat if you live in the South, and I commend Netflix for this attention to detail.

9. Lightner actually terrifies me.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Okay, did anyone else heart start literally pounding when Lightner showed up, and opened a knife? Creepy men are simply not the vibe.

10. Does Rafe have a heart now?

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

Wow, totally didn't expect to see Rafe scattering Ward's ashes. This is actually so wild for Rafe's arc because all he wanted was to make his dad proud. Where does he go from here? I'm torn between wanting him to stay totally evil (because I find his villain arc so compelling), and getting the chance at redemption, but that's only because I love Drew Starkey so much. All I know is if anyone can get Rafe to change his ways, it's Sofia.

11. JJ should NOT have bet all the Pogues' money.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

I've seen plenty of surf competitions on the real OBX, and we have an annual biker week, but I've never seen a beach bike race. There's a first time for everything, I guess! Not only is the JJ & John B. vs. Topper & Rafe dynamic always messy, but now we learn JJ bet the rest of the Pogues' savings on the race?! JJ I love you, but if I learned you took all my money, we'd have some serious problems.

12. RIP The Outer Banks Sentinel.

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

In real life, The Outer Banks Sentinelpublished its last issue in 2019. I love that they included this in the episode!

13. P4L

Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix

More than anything, the first episode of Outer Banks season 4 just reiterates how much these kids love each other, and that no matter what, they're family. Pogues for life!

Let us know what you thought about the first half of Outer Banks season 4 in the comments! Here's an explainer of every detail, so you don't miss a thing. Outer Banks season 4 part 2 premieres on Netflix November 7.

We all know Taylor Swift is the QUEEN of squads, but it's clear that she also loves a good one-on-one BFF date. Whether she's attending Emma Stone's movie premiere or joining Selena Gomez for dinner, Taylor loves spending time with her friends just as much as she loves getting cozy with Travis Kelce. And at a recent Kansas City Chiefs game, the Reputation singer was seen posing with Brittany Holmes — and Brittany's baby bump! We love our WAGs literally so much, so here are all their best BFF moments.

Taylor Swift & Brittany Mahomes Full Friendship Timeline

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

September 30, 2023 — Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift Have Dinner

After the first Kansas City Chiefs game Taylor showed up to support her beau, Taylor and Brittany grabbed dinner with the rest of their friends in New York City. Sophie Turner and Blake Lively were also in attendance, and this is one dinner party I'd love to join.

"They dined in a private room. Everyone had a blast,” a source told PEOPLE. “They all got along and were just laughing all night over drinks and delicious food."

October 1, 2023 — Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes Watch A Chiefs Game Together

The celeb friend group continues as Brittany Mahomes, Taylor Swift, Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and Hugh Jackman watch the Chiefs V. New York Jets. I've never been so interested in football.

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October 13, 2023 — Brittany Mahomes Is "Thrilled" To Join Taylor's Friend Group

After Taylor and Brittany watched another game together on the 12th, a source told US Weekly just how much Brittany has enjoyed spending time with the popstar.

“Brittany is thrilled to be building a genuine friendship with Taylor. They’ve hung out a couple of times and have grown fairly close in a short period of time," the source says. "Brittany thinks Taylor is so sweet and down-to-earth, and they get along really great. The fact that Patrick and Travis are best friends makes things even better. They’re having a blast and love cheering on their men together.”

October 22, 2023 — Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes Show Off Their New Handshake

We group up with the iconic Parent Trap handshake (which was also kind of a dance?), so it only makes since we should hyper fixate on another handshake during our adult years.

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November 4, 2023 — It's Girls' Night Out!

Taylor Swift has always taken GNO seriously, and in November, she was joined by Brittany, Sophie Turner, Selena Gomez, Cara Delevingne, and Gigi Hadid. Don't mind me, I'm just daydreaming about this group chat.

“Brittany is having a blast hanging out with Taylor and her friends," another source told US Weekly. "She loves making new friends and loves how down-to-earth Sophie, Gigi, Selena and Cara all are.”

December 1, 2023 — Brittany & Patrick Mahomes Join Taylor & Travis At A Holiday Bar

Remember the holiday bar that had us convinced Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were living an IRL rom-com? Brittany and Patrick Mahomes were also there! Brittany and her hubby wore matching reindeer onesies and rumor has it Taylor and Travis wore matching holiday sweaters.

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December 25, 2023 — Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift Spend Christmas Together

Spending any major holiday together is a pretty big deal, which is why I was floored when Taylor Swift showed up to the Chiefs' Christmas Day game. She wore an adorable Santa hat with 87 (Travis' number) on it, along with a red sweater and red lipstick. Brittany rocked a Santa hat with Patrick's number 15 and a tweed coat. Ho ho ho!

January 13, 2024 — Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes Twin

Showing up to support your SO's? Fun. Showing up in matching jackets? Extra fun.

February 11, 2024 — Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift Share a Super Bowl Moment

We have no doubt Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes have full confidence in their guys. And after the Chiefs won the Super Bowl (and beat the San Francisco 49ers), Brittany Mahomes was reportedly seen pointing to Taylor and shouting "I told you!"

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July 6, 2024 — Brittany Mahomes Attends The Eras Tour

Brittany decided to work smarter not harder when she booked a trip to Amsterdam, and showed up at Taylor's Eras Tour. She won the lottery in the surprise song department — Taylor Swift played a “Sweeter Than Fiction” & ”Holy Ground” mash-up, and a “Mary’s Song (Oh My My My)," ”So High School,” & ”Everything Has Changed” mash-up.

September 8, 2024 — Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift Attend The US Open

After Brittany and Taylor partied in Rhode Island together, squashing rumors of a feud when Brittany liked one of Donald Trump's social media posts, the BFFs showed up to the US Open with Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. They both looked classy chic, with Taylor wearing a gingham dress and Brittany wearing a white polo dress.

Brittany Mahomes/Instagram

October 7, 2024 — Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes Hang Out At The Chiefs Game

The WAGs are back at it for the 2024 season, and I'm not mad about it one bit. Not only did Taylor go viral for her metallic faux freckles at the Kansas City Chiefs V. New Orleans Saints, but the BFFs, along with Lyndsay Bell, were also seen cradling Brittany's baby bump! "Same girls, new bump🥹❤️," Brittany said on Instagram.

What's your favorite moment from Brittany Mahomes and Taylor Swift's friendship? Follow us on Facebook for more news on your favorite BFFs and stay tuned for more news!

Social media's "hot girls have stomach problems" trend might just be a trend, but I'll gladly accept it. After all, I feel like I deserve some kind of redemption after ending up in the ER, and then again in urgent care, because of stomach pain. I've had stomach problems my entire life, but there was no way I was giving up pasta. Or cheese. What kind of 20-something do you think I am?! I'd decided my comfort foods were worth the discomfort they caused — until it got so bad I couldn't handle it.

I was constantly uncomfortable or in pain (to the point I couldn't pay attention to anything or anyone else), and I couldn't go a day without feeling like my insides were on fire. Apparently, this is not normal.

Now, after consulting with my doctor, I've changed my entire diet. And I'm shook to my core at how good I feel. Is this what all of y'all have been experiencing this whole time?! I am in no way a medical professional, nor am I claiming that these food swaps (plus eating smaller meals more slowly) is the only thing that's helped me. But if you're looking for recipes that will be easy on your tummy, or you're just looking to cut back on sweets, check out these healthy food ideas below. And check with your doctor if you're thinking of making some major swaps!

What foods are gentle on your stomach?

Brit + Co

Foods like toast, rice, bananas, eggs, applesauce, and oatmeal are known to be easy on your stomach. I had to do a lot of trial and error over the course of a few months, and have cut my diet back to safe foods I know will leave me feeling good.

I rarely drink alcohol (shout out to these delicious mocktail recipes!!!), and I have one coffee every six weeks or so, opting for a daily chai or matcha instead. Sugar's also proven to be a pain point, so I usually stick to dark chocolate. But the most surprising foods I've started to avoid are gluten and oats. All this to say, it's all about what works for you and your lifestyle.

My go-to healthy foods for stomach problems are sweet potatoes, broccoli, Greek yogurt, eggs, chicken sausage or grilled chicken, bell peppers, and rice. I also love the occasional ginger ale.

Sweet Potatoes + Broccoli + Chicken Sausage

Brit + Co

I will never go without sweet potatoes, like, ever again. I used to find them disgusting but they have become my saving grace on days my stomach feels awful. Whether I'm making fries, mixing them with other veggies, or turning them into vegan mac and cheese (yes, really), they're sooo versatile. One of my favorite recipes is roasting sweet potatoes and broccoli in the oven (I do 325 degrees for around 20 minutes), then adding in some cooked chicken sausage. I even add some ketchup and mustard on top for a deconstructed hot dog and fries!

​Vegan Mac and Cheese

Taryn Elliott/Pexels

This has been one of my go-to dishes recently, and I promise it's way easier to make than it sounds. I was inspired by this recipe from @itslivb, but since making it the first time, I've started eyeballing every measurement and adjusting the flavors. As someone who love pasta, this is one comfort food recipe that I can indulge in without feeling sick. All I do is boil cubed sweet potatoes until they're soft, then add them to a blender with nutritional yeast, salt, spices like garlic powder and onion powder, and cashews for a creamy consistency.

Gluten-Free Pasta

Brit + Co

As someone whose comfort food is pasta, you can imagine how sad I was when I realized gluten makes me feel awful. I've been on the hunt for the best gluten-free pastas around, and after making some less-than-ideal chickpea pasta recipes, I'm totally obsessed with Trader Joe's rice pasta. Trust me on this. I can't wait to try it in this creamy avocado pasta recipe!

​Grilled Chicken

Salt & Lavender

My taste buds have always loved chicken, and now that I've realized grilled chicken makes me feel so much better than fried chicken, my stomach does too! I always buy a bag of frozen chicken tenders so I can keep them until I'm ready to cook 'em up. After they've defrosted for a couple hours, I use this hack to remove the tendon, and then I'm ready to grill it! I'll eat grilled chicken with literally everything: pasta, sweet potato fries, a bunch of vegetables. I could eat it every day. Here's our ultimate guide toHow To Stop Grilling Dry Chicken For Good.

​Seafood

HelloFresh

That being said, when I need to shake it up, salmon, shrimp, and other seafood are also great protein options. I just usually have to eat a little more to make sure I'm full. I'm dying to make These Flavorful Fish Tacos.

​Cooked Veggies

Brit + Co

Even though I definitely prefer raw vegetables, ever since I realized cooked veggies are easier to digest, I haven't gone back. Roasting a ton of peppers, sweet potatoes, and broccoli at the top of the week sets me up for a successful — and tummy ache-free — week of meals. This Vegetable Galette is calling my name (with a GF crust, of course).

Greek Yogurt & Strawberries

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I have the same breakfast every day: an egg and turkey bacon, either a chai latte or a matcha latte, and Greek yogurt and strawberries. I can't believe I never regularly ate Greek yogurt before, but now that I'm on the train, I'm never getting off. Sometimes when I want a little extra treat I add some chocolate chips, too! This dish helps fill me up without leaving me weighed down.

What's your go-to recipe on days you feel icky? Let us know in the comments and check out our Pinterest for more recipes!

My wallet should be scared – shaking-in-fear-level scared – because Mango’s dress section is packed with tons of purchase-worthy styles. And we all know nothing provides an instant confidence boost like a dress does! Mango dresses are utterly chic, no matter what kind of silhouette you’re shopping for. I scrolled through their entire collection and found some insanely cute minis, midis, maxis, long-sleeved, short-sleeved, and layered dresses (the list goes on) that span every kind of occasion you could possibly think of. These 12 Mango dresses are suitable beyond casual wear (though I would rock ‘em every day), providing the perfect uniform for happy hours, dinner dates, and even weddings. Boldly venture on to find your next favorite frock.

Mango

Check-Print Midi Dress

This dress' flowy nature makes it the ultimate piece to layer under different textures, like with a leather trench coat or a structured chore jacket. The plaid pattern and warm color palette flawlessly channel the fall season, too, so now's the time to snag it! I really like that the ruched waistline and draped neck details add some visual interest, taking your look up a notch with elegance –without overpowering the entire look.

Mango

Strapless Pinstripe Dress

This strapless pick is giving workwear realness, and I am 100% here for it. It's a definite step up from your typical trousers and blouse situation, but still feels right in line with office dress code, so long as you pair it with a fashionable cardigan or blazer – and don't forget some stellar loafers! Once work's over, simply toss off your layer of choice and prance on over to happy hour in style. This dress is also unbelievably flattering, as it hugs and accentuates your midsection with some slight ruching around the waist!

Mango

Printed Turtleneck Dress

Okay, yes. Yes, yes, and yes! This striped dress is the ideal wear during fall (and the holidays, of course!) because of its moody, deep green vibe. The subtle turtleneck and flared sleeves make it lean a bit retro, too, so you could easily pair it with some timeless tall boots to really complete the look. For a pinch of fun, the collar buttons along the back with a keyhole detail that makes it feel low-key luxe.

Mango

Contrasting Print Dress

If you're set on living out your Sex and the City fantasy (I can't stop watching!), this flirty (and most certainly Carrie-approved) mini dress is going to make you feel so chic. It's like if your favorite nighttime slip got the streetwear treatment. Not to mention the colors! The layered design will surely have everyone making a double take to peep at your outfit. Pair this flowy number with kitten heels (and a basic oversized blazer if it's chilly out), and you are set.

Mango

Polka-Dot Dress with Side Pleats

Big polka dots can make a statement, sure, but I think true chicness lies in tiny lil' dots like these. The pattern alone doesn't complete this midi dress, though – it's the adjustable side ruching and swingy skirt that serve as the cherry on top. They both shape your figure in the most flattering way, so much so that you'll want to show this dress off! I'd wear it casually with some combat boots and a jean jacket, or to dress it up more, with a lady jacket and some ballet flats.

Mango

Leather-Effect Sleeveless Dress

If you like to play around with textures in your outfits, this faux leather dress serves as the perfect base for piling on loose knits, denim jackets, or even more leathery layers for a matching moment. The mini-length a-line silhouette is undeniably comfy on the body, so you won't have to worry about feeling restricted. The high neckline offers a good amount of coverage, though the lower-cut sleeves feel a tad bit cheeky. 👀 I'd try pairing this pick with a bright cropped sweater (something like the Hattie Cardigan from Free People) and Mary Janes to channel an alt-preppy look.

Mango

Flared Dress with Ruffled Hem

Drop waists are gonna get me every single time. In combination with the severely scooped neckline, this maxi dress' lower-set waistline elongates your figure to the perfect proportion. It's a great style to reach for on cold winter days, thanks to the high-coverage long sleeves. Wears extremely well with flats for the easy and elegant balletcore outfit you've been dreaming of.

Mango

Leopard Print Draped Dress

The leopard print kind of muddles the intricate details on this number, so any outfit admirers will have to get up close and personal to truly experience the magic of this mini dress... not always a bad thing! 😉 It's fitted with tiny ruffles along the sleeves and layered ruching throughout the skirt to complete the look. The shortened sleeves and mock neckline offer ample coverage up top, too, and make the ensemble look more mature – ideal for office days or important meetings!

Mango

Asymmetrical Pleated Dress

Your next night out is calling... and it most definitely requires this show-stopping dress. I mean, from the off-the-shoulder sleeve to the asymmetrical skirt, this pick has it goin' on. The rich red color also adds a sultry air that makes a whole style statement on its own. Pick out your favorite heels and oversized hoop earrings to pair, and you've got the perfect going-out 'fit on your hands!

Mango

Polka Dots Draped Dress

I cannot resist a polka dot. Though I'm a fan of tiny dots, these bolder, bigger ones have much more head-turning appeal! Plus, the fit of this maxi dress is downright adorable. The bust, bodice, and very top of the skirt are ultra-ruched (and body-hugging!) before falling down to a sheer flowy skirt that starts around the thighs for elongating effect. The thin straps on this pick charmingly cross in the back so you can show off some skin with confidence! Cocktail hour, anyone?

Mango

Ruffled Paisley-Print Dress

On the more casual side, this loose-fitting paisley dress is a certain everyday staple because it's comfy, oh-so cute, and easily wearable with other neutral accessories. It reminds me of something you'd find in the Daisy Jones & The Six wardrobe! The olive green color is also very trendy at the moment, so your look will be totally on-point with this pick. Opt for brown boots and your most trusty handbag to step out stylishly.

Mango

Check Long Dress

This extremely-'90s-inspired maxi has everything I could ever want in a dress: a fun, playful pattern, bright colors, a very flattering (yet comfortable) fit, and endless styling potential. Plus, the bow tie on the front is ever-so femme, a vibe I like to bring to many of my outfits. You can easily wear this pick on its own, or layer it over a white baby tee or long sleeve top for more coverage and warmth.

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