If online dress shopping has moved from exciting to overwhelming, don’t you worry. I’ve compiled the best dress brands, sorted by price point below.
Find hidden gems and beloved brands brimming with stunning dresses. Let’s begin.
This post contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small commission when you shop the links, at no cost to you.
BEST AFFORDABLE DRESS BRANDS
From casual day dresses to elegant evening gowns, Amazon brings a wide range (and lighting-fast shipping) to you. If the selection of popular dress brands is overwhelming, here are my recommendations:
Norma Kamali for figure-flattering cocktail dresses
The Drop for affordable, on-trend dresses
Fair Indigo for sustainable, casual dresses
ABERCROMBIE
In case you haven’t heard, Abercrombie is all grown up. Find wedding guest dresses and floral maxi numbers among others.
Scroll through the dress collection to see why some are turning to Abercrombie for Reformation dress dupes.
ASOS
What earns ASOS a spot on the best dress brands list? The UK-based retailer gives you access to European labels that don’t have a large US presence.
In addition to bringing you hidden gems, ASOS includes catwalk videos on many products. I don’t know about you but I love seeing dresses in motion.
Attention dress lovers- these 6 capsule wardrobe dresses are all you need for a versatile closet.
LULUS
If you’re on a budget, Lulus will be one of your best brands for dresses. Not only do they have a MASSIVE range of options, but many come with customer reviews.
We all know how helpful it is to see others wearing the dress before we press add to cart.
QUINCE
Quince, a rising star in affordable fashion, brings you dresses that are both comfortable and timeless.
From versatile day dresses to supple silk frocks, Quince offers quality dresses that you can wear on repeat. A brand that makes luxury affordable? How can we resist?
A fan of minimalist fashion? This minimalist capsule wardrobe makes looking chic a breeze.
PETAL & PUP
Last on our affordable dress round-up is Petal & Pup. Here, you can find lots of trend-forward dresses under $100 including casual and dressy frocks.
They also offer easy 30-day returns in case your dress of choice doesn’t work out.
BEST MID- RANGE DRESS BRANDS
REFORMATION
Every time I shop Reformation, I find feminine pieces that give me an instant confidence boost.
The label is a pioneer in sustainable fashion offering that dresses are not only stylish but also crafted with the environment in mind.
NORDSTROM
In the sea of new dress brands, it’s easy to overlook the tried and true. But Nordstrom brings you a curated selection of well-known brands and in-house labels.
The free shipping and flexible return policy are the cherry on top.
REVOLVE
When I think of head-turning dresses, Revolve leaps to mind. There’s no shortage of mid-range dresses here- both from established and emerging designers.
With its wide selection of trend-forward pieces, Revolve is a fan favorite.
FAITHFULL THE BRAND
Evoke a carefree yet elegant look when you slip into Faithfull’s frocks. This boho-inspired dress brand features breezy silhouettes and lots of florals.
Beach weddings, brunches, and sunny vacations beckon.
FOR LOVE AND LEMONS
The coquette aesthetic is embodied perfectly at For Love and Lemons. Find frills, bows, lace, and all things girly here.
Going somewhere? Simplify packing with this travel capsule wardrobe.
HILL HOUSE
You probably recognize the now famous Nap Dress that had everyone in a frenzy a while back. But Hill House has more to offer.
Namely, timeless and delicate dresses that never fail to flatter. Visit if you’re after modest yet chic clothing
BEST DESIGNER DRESS BRANDS
If the following brands are out of budget, consider renting them. My guide to Rent the Runway will assist.
ALICE + OLIVIA
Minimalists, move aside. The intricate, impeccably designed dresses at Alice+Olivia are sure to turn heads.
A dear friend of mine is a super fan of the brand thanks to their stunning dresses and top-notch customer service.
SABINA MUSAYEV
It’s not an exaggeration to say that each Sabina Musayev dress is a masterpiece. The frocks have a distinctive look with light-catching fabric and dramatic layers.
Pro-tip- you can often snag the gowns at a discount here.
MODA OPERANDI
For the girls who love luxe options, MODA OPERANDI is not just a brand; it’s a portal to glamour. All items are guaranteed as 100% authentic, including both ready-to-wear and vintage pieces.
SAKS 5TH AVE
Browse the best designer dress brands all in one place at Saks 5th Ave. Stunning gowns from Badgley Mischka, Sachin & Babi, and Retrofête are waiting to be discovered.
ZIMMERMAN
From dreamy silhouettes to intricate details, it’s hard to go wrong with a Zimmerman piece. Find elegant garden party looks and ethereal evening gowns here.
It’s easy to see why Zimmerman sits among the best dress brands.
STAUD
STAUD brings contemporary cool to the world of designer dresses.
Whether you spotted the label on It Girls like Alexa Chung or came across it while online shopping, prepare to indulge in a brand that effortlessly blends modern fashion with timeless elements.
PLUS SIZE DRESS BRANDS
The following stores feature plus-size dresses. And yes, I’ve included casual and dressy options.
Eloquii
Reformation
Anthropologie
ASOS Curve
Nordstrom
HOW TO BUY THE RIGHT DRESS ONLINE
READ SHOPPER REVIEWS
These nuggets of wisdom offer insights into the fit, quality, and overall satisfaction of others who’ve taken the plunge. It’s like having a friend guide you through the virtual wardrobe. As a petite, I keep an eye out for reviews from my fellow 5’4 and under girls.
CHECK MATERIALS
While you can’t physically touch the dress, paying attention to materials helps. Look for clues in the description such as “breathable cotton,” “luxurious silk,” or “stretchy spandex.” Familiarize yourself with the types of fabrics you love and those that suit different occasions.
HAVE A BACKUP
If you’ve set your heart on a particular dress, have a backup or two in mind. This way, if your first choice isn’t available in your size, you won’t be left empty-handed. A little flexibility ensures you find a gem- even if it’s not the original one you had in mind.
KNOW THE RETURN POLICY
Life is unpredictable, and sometimes even the most carefully chosen dress might not meet your expectations. Before you buy, make sure that the return process is straightforward. This is one reason I like Revolve. If a dress does not work out, returning it is simple.
BEST DRESS BRAND FAQS
Reformation, Christy Dawn, Whimsy+Row, and Summersalt make dresses that are sustainable and beautiful.
Read Shopper Reviews Gain insights from real experiences to ensure the right fit and quality.
Check MaterialsPay attention to fabric descriptions, looking for quality materials.
Have a Backup Consider alternative dresses in case your first choice isn’t available in your preferred size or color.
Know the Return Policy Familiarize yourself with the return policy of the online store for a hassle-free experience.
