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7 Target Summer Dresses Under $40 That Will Keep You Looking & Feeling Cool

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Temperatures are heating up, and with Memorial Day behind us, it’s clear that summer’s upon us. You can beat the heat and look good doing it when you start filling your closet with breathable, lightweight sundresses that skim but never cling. The best place to find these flattering styles? Target, of course.

The store is a haven of affordable fashion, but lately, its Target‘s summer dresses that have caught our attention. Tons of flow-y dress styles that go with sandals, sneakers, slides and more are available for less than $40, and some are even on sale. What more could you ask for?

Shop some of our favorite affordable summer dresses from Target. Whether you’re headed to a brunch, a barbecue or a soccer game, your look will be effortless.

A Breezy Cotton Midi

The number one throw-it-on-and-go dress in your summer wardrobe will be this v-neck knit dress by Universal Thread. It’s the perfect piece to match with sneakers or flip flops when you’re not in the mood for shorts and is as reliable as your favorite t-shirt. We love it in this neutral olive shade.

Universal Thread Short Sleeve V-Neck Knit Midi Shirtdress 
$25
Buy now

A Flowy Tank Dress

Fitted on top and flow-y on the bottom, this sundress by August Sky is flattering to every figure and comfortable enough to practically live in. Grab it in one of more than 10 colors — like sweet coral, above — and pair it with everything from platform sandals to flip flops.

August Sky Smocked Midi Dress
$29.90 $39.99 25% Off
Buy now

A Little Black Dress

Dinners al fresco and formal summer events call for the ultimate little black summer dress, and it’s this sleeveless one by A New Day. An asymmetrical hem that’s just a bit shorter in the front makes this stretchy piece a little bit lighter.

A New Day Midi Ballet Dress
$28
Buy now

 A Word-Friendly A-Line Dress

It flows, it stands out, it looks great with sandals or heels — but when you find out this piece of A-line perfection by Knox Rose is a breathable cotton blend, it becomes an absolute must-have. This emerald green version has completely won us over.

Knox Rose Short Sleeve A-Line Dress
$35
Buy now

 A Transitional Shift Dress

Add this work of art by Future Collective to your summer dress rotation and enjoy dressing it up or down — and even belting it, as some reviewers have. “I feel comfortable wearing it around the house and playing with my toddler son, but also dressing it up for going out,” one wrote. This one’s on major sale and still available in all sizes.

Future Collective  Watercolor Plisse Midi Shift Dress
$21 $35 40% Off
Buy now

A Slimming Maxi Dress

This ombre beauty by Knox Rose flows so beautifully, it’s almost aquatic. Its halter top and elastic waist with a drawstring in the back have an overall slimming effect. This one’s a showstopper.

Knox Rose Sleeveless Halter Maxi A-Line Dress
$38
Buy now

A Cut Out Knit Sheath Dress

Is there anything better than a dress that’s as comfortable as pajamas but stylish enough for Sunday brunch? This stretchy knit dress by A New Day with a keyhole cutout and a sexy slide slit is everything, and tat fun fuchsia color is a cherry on top!

A New Day Short Sleeve Cut Out Knit Sheath Dress
$25.50 $35 27% Off
Buy now

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