ComScore

PureWow Readers Couldn't Stop Buying These Dresses in 2024—and They’ll Get You From New Year’s Eve to Wimbledon

three standouts that stole the show

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.

When it comes to dresses, PureWow readers know exactly what they want: timeless pieces that work for every occasion. So, after diving into our 2024 data, we found three standouts that stole the show—and your shopping carts. First, there was the Vivianne Dress, a shimmering turtleneck mini that can go from a New Year’s Eve party to a brunch date to a cozy office day. Then, there was the Anthropologie’s Somerset Maxi, a flowy number with a smocked waist and pockets that transition seamlessly from garden parties to fall layers. And finally, we have the Gardenia Hart Dress, which gives summer vacay sophistication, inspired by Julia Roberts’ Wimbledon look (but at a way more approachable price point).

Whether you’re sipping champagne at holiday parties or Pimm’s courtside in the summer, here’s why these dresses have become our readers' obsession. (Trust us, they’ll quickly become yours too.)

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

This sweater dress is the ultimate holiday party go-to—and a cozy option for just about any occasion after. Made from a soft blend of rayon, polyester and nylon, it’s lightweight yet warm, with a slightly oversized silhouette that drapes beautifully without overwhelming your frame. It also hits mid-thigh, so the mini length is playful without being too short, and the relaxed turtleneck with three-quarter-length sleeves gives it a universally flattering appeal. The best part is that it has a shimmer woven into the fabric, so it’s festive enough for New Year’s Eve but understated enough for everyday wear.

While PureWow readers can’t stop buying the Hazelwood color, one reviewer raved about the Olive shade, calling it “perfect for fall and winter” with a “gorgeous subtle gold shimmer.” (The Black and Winter White options are just as timeless.) Pair it with knee-high boots to ring in the New Year, or dress it down with sneakers and a denim jacket for brunch—this dress does it all.

With more than 2,400 glowing reviews, it makes sense why this cotton maxi dress sells like hotcakes. Its smocked waist adds just the right amount of structure, while the tiered silhouette flows gracefully, flattering every figure from hourglass to petite. In fact, one reviewer shared, “I’m 5'3'' with a straight body type, and the fit makes my legs look longer.” Meanwhile, a taller reviewer noted, “I’m 5'10'' and the length fits perfectly, hitting just above the ankle.” The best part—aside from the fact that it has pockets—is that it comes in 10 colors and patterns. From the Light Sand’s floral (which screams garden party chic) to the Carbon’s stripes (perfect for date night) to the simple yet elegant Black, there’s a version for every occasion. “It can be worn all year long. You can throw a sweater on top during the fall/winter, wear it with boots or sandals,” another reviewer says. Oh, and did I mention that it caters to everyone with standard, petite and plus fits? 

Over the summer, Julia Roberts wore a crisp white Gucci tennis dress to Wimbledon—and it’s been living rent-free in my mind ever since. With its oversized sailor collar and preppy navy contrast trim, this Pomander Place dress channels the same timeless sophistication, but at a fraction of the price ($128 vs. $2,650, to be exact). It’s the kind of dress you’ll reach for all summer long—whether you’re sipping Pimm’s courtside in 2025 or heading to a poolside brunch—thanks to its breathable cotton fabric and mini-length silhouette, which strikes the perfect balance between chic and playful.

That said, it’s true to size but may run a touch short for taller wearers—hitting mid-thigh for one 5'8'' reviewer, who suggested sizing up for broader shoulders. Still, it earns bonus points for thoughtful details, like practical front patch pockets and a polished quarter-length placket. And when the weather cools? Just toss on a light sweater for an effortlessly preppy, layered look. As one reviewer put it, it's “the perfect dress for your summer vacay—so flattering and so detailed.”


profile pic WP

Associate Editor

  • Writes across all lifestyle verticals, including relationships and sex, home, finance, fashion and beauty
  • More than five years of experience in editorial, including podcast production and on-camera coverage
  • Holds a dual degree in communications and media law and policy from Indiana University, Bloomington