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The 15 Best Nordstrom Dresses to Wear to Spring Weddings, Vacations & More

Easy, breezy, heat-wave essentials

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best spring and summer dresses at nordstrom
nordstrom

There are a lot of reasons to love summer, but my personal favorite? It’s dress season, baby. We’re freeing the leg and ditching all heavy fabrics with crotch zippers and buttons (also known as pants). And the best place to unleash your inner Carrie Bradshaw and find your *signature* dress of summer, or multiple dresses of summer, is Nordstrom. You can count on Nordy to always be stocked with top designers and chic styles that feel of the moment but cheap. Since browsing endless options can feel overwhelming, I took the liberty of pulling a few off the rack that have that add-to-cart (and turn-heads-wherever-you-go) magic.

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How I Chose the Best Nordstrom Dresses

All of these dresses have at least a 4.5-star rating, and I curated for a range of styles, body types and budgets. Whether you’re heading to a black-tie wedding, a picnic in the park or a night out with the girls, there’s a look here just for you.

Best for Meeting Your S.O.’s Parents

1. Nordstrom Pleated A-Line Dress

What I Like

  • unique neckline
  • cinched waistlines
  • flattering on multiple body types

What I Don't Like

  • runs large

Nordstrom

Sharp pleats, a flattering A-line fit and a stunning bteau neck make this an ideal choice for family gatherings, like meeting your S.O.’s parents for the first time. It’s elegant, but still a little daring with the cinched waist. Plus, it has pockets, meaning you won't have to keep your purse on you all night.

"This silhouette of this midi dress is perfection," says Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth. "It's so, so gorgeous and drapes beautifully on so many different body types. Plus, the material is one that can be easily dressed up or down, so I can wear it to the office, brunch or cocktails."

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XXS to XXL
  • Material: 93 percent viscose, 7 percent polyester

Best LBD

2. Dress the Population Tiffany One-Shoulder Mini Dress

What I Like

  • versatile
  • comes in multiple colors if black isn’t your vibe

What I Don't Like

  • snug top may not work for larger chest sizes
  • runs small

Dress the Population

The second you slip this on, you’ll have all eyes on you. The one-shoulder neckline and form-fitting structure create a curvy silhouette that’s very va-va-voom. Pair with a bold heel for a pop of color and prepare to rake in all of the compliments. 

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XXS to XXL
  • Material: 97 percent polyester, 3 percent spandex

Best Maxi

3. Favorite Daughter The Truly Madly Floral Print Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • statement pattern
  • lightweight

What I Don't Like

  • may stretch out over time

Favorite Daughter

A bold maxi that transitions from winter to summer is a must have and this number from Favorite Daughter fits the bill. The bright yellow floral dress covers up nicely with a high neckline and long sleeves. More than 50 percent of the dress is a sustainable viscose, which make it a breezy dream come summertime.

"The yellow of this maxi is so gorgeous and will give a hit of spring to my winter wardrobe," says Hepworth. "While it's definitely intended for dinner parties or cocktail events, if I layer it under a denim jacket and some moto boots, it'll fit right in at the office."

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XS to XL
  • Material: 58 percent Lenzing EcoVero viscose, 42 percent viscose

Best for a Reunion

4. Farm Rio Delicate Garden Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • sheer illusion
  • lace details
  • flatters multiple body types

What I Don't Like

  • dry clean only
  • lace is easy to damage

Farm Rio

Farm Rio is known for its colorful vacation wear, but this burgundy number is a total mood. "I love how Farm Rio dresses command attention in such unexpected yet flattering ways," says PureWow VP of Editorial Content Candace Davison. "This style is less vibrant than their typical looks, but it really makes your silhouette stand out." Reviewers rave about the well-placed ruching to really flatter your figure too.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XXS to XL
  • Material: 100 percent viscose

Best Wedding Guest Dress

5. Xscape Evenings Ruffle One-Shoulder Tiered Charmeuse Gown

What I Like

  • embellished one shoulder
  • delicate pattern
  • playful ruffles

What I Don't Like

  • spot clean only

Xscape Evenings

As a wedding guest, you need to be able to sit, stand, move, groove and eat like a champ—all while look flirty yet put together. You can count on this gown to carry you through the night, no matter the event. The dark navy fabric has a subtle sheer and flowy ruffles that are romantic and eye-catching without being over the top. The one shoulder with a floral embellishment is just the spicy cherry on top.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: 4 to 16
  • Materials: 100 percent polyester

Best '90s-Inspired Cocktail Dress

6. French Connection Enni Satin Minidress

What I Like

  • classic LBD
  • sexy open back

What I Don't Like

  • might be too short on longer frames

French Connection

A LBD is essential for date night and cocktail hour, and this one from French Connection is a foolproof choice. It has a classic A-line fit with high neckline but the open back adds a sultry allure that you'll reach for again and again. As Hepworth puts it: "This LBD fulfills all my '90s dreams and is a classic I feel confident I'll get lots of use out of for years to come."

Fast Facts

  • Size range: 0 to 14
  • Materials: 50 percent Lenzing EcoVero viscose, 50 percent viscose

Best Shirtdress

7. Lauren Ralph Lauren Stripe Broadcloth Shirtdress

What I Like

  • wrap waist
  • goes with anything
  • machine washable

What I Don't Like

  • limited sizes available

Lauren Ralph Lauren

Preppy folks, rise up. Your tennis-watching, brunch-having, pickleball-playing outfit has arrived. It’s traditional in the best way, and sports flattering details like vertical stripes and lovely wrap-waist. Cotton fabric makes it a breathable, easy-to-care-for dream and the colors go with just about anything.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: 0 to 16
  • Materials: 100 percent cotton

Best Bow Dress

8. Ganni Stripe Organic Cotton Tie String Minidress

What I Like

  • bow trend
  • made of organic cotton
  • lightweight

What I Don't Like

  • may be short on tall frames

Ganni

Bow ties took over cardigans in 2024, and now it's time to embrace them on dresses. This pink puffed front from Ganni has three of them adorning the front of this elevated poplin dress, and its charming cut has made it one of Assistant Editor Natalie LaBarbera's favorite looks of spring 2025. "I'm obsessed with everything about this Ganni dress—from the trendy bow front to the subtle stripe pattern, puff sleeves and eco-friendly organic cotton material."

Fast Facts

  • Size range: 0 to 12
  • Materials: 100% organic cotton

Best Summer Print

9. Farm Rio Cerrado Stamps Print Linen Shirtdress

What I Like

  • eco-friendly
  • adjustable belt
  • airy linen

What I Don't Like

  • may be short on tall frames

Farm Rio

This is another winner from Farm Rio. There’s nowhere better to rock these bright colors and enchanting patterns than on the beach—coconut beverage in hand. The shirtdress style is perfect for a family trip, and despite having sleeves, the linen material keeps things easy breezy. I give major bonus points to Farm Rio for prioritizing sustainable materials and committing to plant a tree for every purchase.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XXS to XL
  • Materials: 100 percent linen

Best Work Dress

10. Endless Rose Sleeveless Tweed Minidress

What I Like

  • timeless look
  • machine washable
  • professional

What I Don't Like

  • limited sizing
  • may be short on taller frames

Endless Rose

The way a quality trench coat never goes out of style, you can expect this tweed dress with a twist to make an appearance in your wardrobe year after year. The cinched waist creates an hourglass shape while the front buttons add some professional detailing. Plus, it transitions nicely to date night or post-work drinks once you remove the blazer or cardigan you paired with it.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XS to L
  • Materials: 100 percent polyester

Best Cutout Dress

11. Petal & Pup Rosetta Cutout Strapless Dress

What I Like

  • fun cutout
  • strapless

What I Don't Like

  • runs large

Petal & Pup

A cool cutout dress is the ultimate MVP item to add to your summer capsule wardrobe. It seems made for rooftop parties, beach vacations and everything in between. The dress is made of a linen cotton blend, making it soft and breathable, and it comes in white and three pastel shades.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: 0 to 16
  • Materials: 70 percent cotton, 30 percent linen

Best All-Purpose Dress

12. Nike Sportswear Chill Knit Mini Rib Cami Minidress

What I Like

  • sporty
  • versatile
  • microrib texture

What I Don't Like

  • very form fitting

Nike

Leave it to Nike to create a dress you can work out in just as easily as wear to a party. The stretch fabric is cozy and airy, yet snug. Reviewers on the tall side call out that while it looks short, the dress doesn’t ride up and easily covers all the necessary tidbits. Pair it with sneakers and loud gold accessories or take it for a spin on the golf course—you really can’t go wrong.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XS to XL
  • Materials: 61 percent polyester, 31 percent lyocell, 8 percent spandex

Best Cocktail Dress

13. Vince Camuto Rhinestone Detail One-Shoulder Cocktail Dress

What I Like

  • flattering silhouette
  • rhinestone detail

What I Don't Like

  • hand wash only

Vince Camuto

Some days, the idea of squeezing into a bodycon cocktail dress can feel like hell on earth. That’s why this little number is a summer dream. Silky fabric paired with a flowy, off-the-shoulder cut means the dress looks fitted without clinging to your every nook and cranny. The rhinestone shoulder buckle adds just enough detailing without overpowering the look. Plus, that sultry cape is ready to catch the breeze from your every step.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: 6 to 14
  • Materials: 100 percent polyester

Best Maxi Dress

14. Petal & Pup Gemma Floral Strapless Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • light and airy
  • strapless

What I Don't Like

  • top may be loose on smaller busts
  • hand wash only

Petal & Pup

Wrap yourself up in this flowy floral beauty. The beachy print is ideal for weddings, honeymoons, concerts and more. Reviewers love how breezy the dress is, but do warn that the fabric is a bit thin. One reviewer calls it a “dance all night” dress, which is kind of the goal of summer, right?

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XS to XL
  • Materials: 100 percent polyester
Topshop Sleeveless Crochet Minidress
nordstrom

Best Crochet Dress

15. Topshop Sleeveless Crochet Minidress

What I Like

  • on trend
  • crocheted material allows for a breeze

What I Don't Like

  • base layer not included

topshop

Crochet dresses are another hot item for 2025, and it doesn't get much more classic than this Topshop number. Wear it during the day as a swimsuit cover-up, then add a slip (or bralette and hot pants) underneath for al fresco dinner and drinks. Either way, your look is fabulously of the moment.

Fast Facts

  • Size range: XS to L
  • Materials: 60 percent cotton; 40 percent acrylic

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Nordstrom's Return Policy?

Nordstrom’s return policy is pretty simple. The department store accepts returns on a case-by-case basis. Basically, if you have an account with them to show your purchase, or a physical receipt and your item isn’t damaged, you’ll likely get a refund or be able exchange in person. The brand doesn’t send return labels with online orders, so if you’re returning via mail, you’ll be able to start your return online and get a QR code or printable return label to make your return at your local USPS or FedEx.


Freelance Writer

Ashley Sepanski is a freelance writer covering health, wellness and travel. She’s an ACE-certified fitness instructor and holds a master’s in Publishing and Digital Media from New York University. Her work has been published in Greatist, Oprah.com, Healthline and other media outlets.

Courtney Campbell

Freelance Writer

Courtney covers all things shopping and lifestyle at PureWow. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Elon University and has spent more than five years of her career writing and editing shopping content. She has also tested everything from kombucha kits to standing desks for product reviews. With a passion for service journalism, she loves covering food, lifestyle and home content. You can follow her on Instagram or see more of her experience on LinkedIn.

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