I’m A Southern Shopping Writer, And I’m Eyeing These Under-$35 Lightweight Dresses To Stay Cool

If you live in the South like I do, you know summer and its high temperatures are going to be around for a while. In fact, a lot of us probably won’t feel a chilly day until October. For fall lovers, that sounds like a real drag, but it can also be an opportunity to add more lightweight summer dresses to your wardrobe.

As a Southern shopping writer, I know how to find a dress that keeps me cool in high heat and humidity and has a budget-friendly price tag. Flowy fabrics, flattering fits that aren’t too tight, and materials that breathe are musts. So, I’ve rounded up 13 under-$35 Walmart dresses that’ll get you through the remainder of a Southern summer.

Summer Dresses Under $35 at Walmart 

• Dokotoo V-Neck Chiffon Dress, $32.99 (orig. $40.29)
• Mengpipi Short-Sleeve Maxi Dress, $19.97 (orig. $32.99)
• The Pioneer Woman Tiered Knit Dress, $10.81 (orig. $20)
• Free Assembly Cotton Tiered Midi Dress, $20.16 (orig. $32)
• Time and Tru Flutter-Sleeve Midi Dress, $13.70 (orig. $19.98)
• Allegra K Floral Wrap Dress, $25.99 (orig. $34.99)
• Scoop Sleeveless Handkerchief Hem Dress, $9.34 (orig. $34)
• Time and Tru Square Neck Midi Dress, $17.58 (orig. $21.98)
• The Pioneer Woman Off-the-Shoulder Belted Midi Dress, $13.33 (orig. $27)
• Free Assembly Tiered Flutter-Sleeve Midi Dress, $34
• Free Assembly Belted Short-Sleeve Utility Dress, Starting at $16.74 (orig. $34)
• Sofia Jeans by Sofia Vergara Pleated V-Neck Dress, $32
• Time and Tru Floral Eyelet Dress, $18.77 (orig. $29.98)

Dokotoo V-Neck Chiffon Dress

Nothing says breezy like chiffon. This summer-ready floral maxi dress features ruffle details along both the flattering V-neck and the sleeves that fall just above the elbow. The tiered skirt gives the dress flow, and it can be dressed up with heeled sandals or worn more casually with flats. According to shoppers, it’s a comfortable choice that can be worn all day.

Mengpipi Short-Sleeve Maxi Dress

Comfort and style don’t have to be mutually exclusive, and this dress proves it. The minimalist maxi falls to the floor but features plenty of movement thanks to pleating along the skirt. Side pockets offer an easy space to hold small items. The short sleeves and crew neck give breezy T-shirt dress vibes, and an elastic waist provides a flexible fit. Customers praised the fit, soft material, and versatility of the dress.

The Pioneer Woman Tiered Knit Dress

This slip-on style is ultra-comfortable, and elastic cuffs on the sleeves ensure a good fit. It features a V-neckline and tiered skirt that gives it a breezy feel. Shoppers say it’s a must-buy thanks to its lightweight, flowy, and relaxed design. Grab it starting at just $11 in three colors and patterns.

Free Assembly Cotton Tiered Midi Dress

Cotton might just be the pinnacle of summer fabrics, since the airy fabric is sturdy enough to not be see-through but breezy enough to keep you cool. The bold red and white floral pattern of this dress is great for summer weddings or baby showers, and the midi length makes it a versatile option. Once fall arrives, you can layer it with a denim jacket, which makes it an ideal transitional piece for your wardrobe. 

Walmart is packed with even more lightweight dresses to get you through the remainder of hot Southern summers, so keep scrolling for more of my top picks below.

Time and Tru Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress

Allegra K Floral Wrap Dress

Scoop Sleeveless Handkerchief Hem Dress

Time and Tru Square Neck Midi Dress