POV: You accidentally slept in late, and now you need to somehow get dressed in approximately 5 minutes. The problem is you have no idea what to wear, and you still need to fix your hair and makeup. Luckily for you, we have the exact formula of what you should wear down to a science: simply, grab matching shoes and a bag, throw on a mini dress, and go! Easy as that, you can be out the door in 5 minutes. This is my tried-and-true formula on most days when I don't know what to wear, and it's especially handy when it's hot out and you need to beat the heat. We've got some mini dress essentials for every occasion so keep reading for all the cute picks!
Edikted Perri Pleated Corset Minidress
If you're anything like me and are obsessed with the brand House of CB, but not obsessed with the price tag, then this Edikted dress will be such an amazing cheaper alternative for you! I'm obsessed with the cut and color — it feels very European to me!
Target Women's Flutter Short Sleeve Mini Poplin Dress
An easy lunch outfit formula: poplin dress, sandals, and a straw bag. Voila! The easiest and chicest outfit combo that will carry you through the entire summer season!
Urban Social Gingham Dress
Not only is this dress incredibly on trend with the gingham, but it's also less than $40! So, it's just a win-win all around. Grab this dress to wear on a hot summer day with a basket bag and strappy sandals for the ultimate french girl look.
Target Women's Easy Woven Mini Shirtdress
This screams old luxury and old money vibes to me! It's really giving a Sofia Richie-Grainge vibe that I plan to emulate all summer long. Styled like the photo above — with flat sandals and simple jewelry — is perfect for a beach or brunch day!
Target Women's Ruffle Trim Slip Mini Babydoll Dress
A floral mini dress is a necessity for your summer wardrobe. Throw it on with some sandals, and you can make your way over to a nice lunch or just grocery shopping at Trader Joe's. I love the versatility!
Abercrombie Emerson Poplin Puff Sleeve Mini Dress
Poplin dresses will always be an essential because of how comfortable and easy-breezy they are. You put one on and instantly feel more put together and done-up. This one is very bohemian, which I love. Plus, the prices at Abercrombie are just too good!
Reformation Mayve Knit Dress
A white knit mini dress is a staple in my wardrobe — it's classic and perfect for sooo many different occasions. Whether you pair it with some mary-janes or high heels, you can wear this mini dress anywhere!
Target Petal and Pup Women's Rev Mini Dress
I've been obsessed with Target finds recently, with their really affordable pieces that are still classic and on trend all at the same time. This denim mini dress is a throwback trend that's circulating everyone's wardrobes right now, and it's so cute! TBH, it's giving elevated and expensive in a way I wouldn't expect from Target.
Reformation Babette Dress
Reformation really is mini dress royalty — every single one is a hit, and this Babette Dress is no less! The bright red is great to add a pop of color to your wardrobe! Perfect for a night out with some heels, and a matching red lip!
Abercrombie One-Shoulder Chiffon Mini Dress
This look is a 10/10 for me. The polka dots, the one-sleeve shoulder, the color — just everything about it! It's so on trend and will be so flattering on so many different body types. BRB while I put this in my cart ASAP...
Abercrombie Crochet-Style V-Neck Mini Dress
Crochet dresses are popping up everywhere lately, and I love this cheaper alternative from Abercrombie (who's killing it lately, might I add). It's the ideal mini dress for vacation, whether you're on the beach or simply dipping your toes in the pool.
Reformation Soraya Dress
Strolling around the Versailles Palace? Galivanting in the middle of Notting Hill? Or just going to a local cafe? This dress is so cute, and SO stylish. It will give you the effortless, easy outfit combination we're looking for. Just throw on sandals or flats, and you have a fit!
Chelsea28 Square Neck Corset Dress
A black mini dress, to me, is an essential to building up your wardrobe staples. I love the classy square-neck of this one — it feels very vintage inspired. I definitely think it's a timeless piece you'll be wearing for years to come!
Bebe Imitation Pearl Strap Slipdress
I've been loving lilac and lavender as a fun, summer cool tone, and this dress is the perfect shade! I also love that it has the beautiful satin material and imitation pearl shoulder strap. Such a fun night-out look!
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Lead image via Abercrombie
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Kayla Walden is a content creator and writer who spends most of her free time either shopping the latest trends, reading fantasy novels, or binging new tv shows. You can find her various musings on all things fashion, pop culture, and travel on Brit + Co or her blog, Kayla's Newsletter.