15 Plus Size Sundresses For Ultimate Summer Vibes

Summer is here and the sun is out with a vengeance, so I'm busy looking for the best and brightest new plus size sundresses for breezy, skin-baring vibes. Although soaking up some rays involves countless sunscreen application for my super pale skin to survive the heat, it's all worth it when I find the perfect carefree dress. Generally, I prefer pants to a dress or skirt, but when the weather begins to heat up, sometimes the light, one-piece appeal of the sundress is irresistible.

For a long time, I avoided these shoulder-baring summer garments because I felt insecure about showing off my arms. But I've gotten to a point in my life in which I don't want to put off any more things that make me more comfortable and happy. I want to enjoy the summer sun, instead of sweltering in a full-body black cloak (my old strategy); and a bright, airy little dress sounds like the perfect solution.

Luckily for me (and you), there's a bountiful crop of adorable plus size sundresses out there right now, from tailored to boho, so you can be sure to find a style you adore. Personally, I'm loving a more structured shape with a lush floral print, but there are so many fun designs that it's hard to choose. If you're looking for a sweet summer addition to your wardrobe, check out these 15 gorgeous styles, and get ready to twirl.

1. Darling Daisy

The Lucille Brocade Dress, Sizes XXS - 6X, $70, Smart Glamour

It doesn't get much more cheerful than this hot pink daisy print, and the tailored shape is all ladylike poise. But my favorite part? The straps are thin enough to show off my arms, but thick enough to cover bra straps; score!

2. Faded Romance

Lace Trim Boho Dress, Sizes 8 - 28, $62.50, SimplyBe

For a softer take on the floral motif, this wispy boho number is a light and lovely dream. Delicate straps keep the off-the-shoulder neckline in place, and lace panels provide a pretty accent to the muted poppy print.

3. Show Your Stripes

Empire Dress, Sizes 14 - 24, $209, Yona New York

If florals aren't really your thing, this striped design might be just what the doctor ordered. An asymmetrical hem and gathered empire bodice are small touches that bring extra interest to a classic pattern.

4. Pretty Pineapple

Pineapple Print Cotton Sash Tie Dress, Sizes XS - 6X, $59.95, Eshakti

If your tastes skew playfully ladylike, this sundress, with its tailored shape and tiny pineapple print, might be right up your alley. And since it's from Eshakti, you can customize the size and style to match your preferences perfectly.

5. Sailor Stripe

Classic Stripe Skater Dress, Sizes 14 - 32, $59.99, Society Plus

Channel nautical vibes in this crisp white and navy design. The simple shape and over-the-knee hemline make this a natural choice for summer beach trips and boating expeditions.

6. Vibrant Vixen

Renee Dress, Sizes XL - 4X, $132, Pinup Girl Clothing

This rosy number is the perfect mix of retro sweet and sexy. The crossover neckline, knotted bust, and cut-out detailing make it a diva-worthy dress for any summer occasion.

7. Short And Strappy

Love Me Like You Do Skater Dress, Sizes S - 5X, $29.99, Rebdolls

When you've gone to all the work to get that perfect sumer glow, show it off in a strappy, leg-baring design with style to spare. An abstract, geometric print amps up the simple shape, and that full, flowy skirt is just meant for twirling.

8. Out And About

Cold Shoulder Skater Dress, Sizes 1X - 3X, $108, Monif C.

What do you get when you mix a playful sundress shape with a sophisticated hue and scuba fabric? The ideal summer dress for dinner and dancing, of course.

9. All White Everything

Oslow Cutout Flare Dress, Sizes 0X - 3X, $46.90, Fashion To Figure

Simple never looked sexier than in this white hot, cage bodice design. So go ahead; turn a few heads.

10. Flirty Femme

Amina Dress, Sizes S - 3X, $68, Rue 107

For all the material girls out there, this plaid mini will be your ticket to the prettiest, pinkest summer outfits ever. The off-the-shoulder neckline and contrast sash are just icing on the cake.

11. Linen Lace-Up

Linen Slip Dress, Sizes 14 - 24, $89.99, Addition Elle

Sometimes, when it's hot and sticky outside, only the lightest of layers will do. This linen slip dress has you covered when you want a lot of style with minimum fuss.

12. Seeing Spots

Traveling Cake Pop Truck Dress, Sizes S - 3X, $69.99, ModCloth

With a sweet, raspberry hue and swing skirt, this little dress is polka dot perfection. The halter neck and pleated bodice balance the voluminous skirt for an iconic '50s look.

13. Dramatic Lengths

Into The Wild Dress, One Size Plus, $98, Zelie For She

Balance a longer length with a sexy low-cut bodice and a bold, abstract print. Cinch this flowy dress with the included sash for an hourglass silhouette, or leave it loose for maximum, billowy drama.

14. Sweet Strapless

Strapless Tie Dress, Sizes 14 - 24, $99.90, Eloquii

Avoid tan lines with a pretty strapless number from Eloquii. The bow detailing and pale, sky blue hue upgrade a simple shape for a subtly romantic style that's ideal for long, sunny days.

15. Garden Graphics

Lace Delight Dress, Sizes 14 - 24, $119, City Chic

For a bold take on florals that's anything but prissy, this graphic pink and black dress gives a sweet motif some spice. Front cut-outs at the shoulder and a lace-up, racerback style make this two-toned stunner feel just a little edgy.

If you've been looking for the perfect item to add to your summer wardrobe, these gorgeous dresses will let you feel the sun on your skin. Try one (or a few) for sunny style and breezy comfort this season.

Images: Courtesy Brands