Dresses are my forte — I’m a shopping editor, so I’m allowed to say that. Just one glance at my Instagram account will tell you that I live for a fantastic dress. I invest in a splurge-worthy option here and there, but when I find an affordable treasure that seems much pricier than it is, that’s when I truly get excited.
Not to worry: I won’t gatekeep my latest find. This Old Navy Fit & Flare Puff-Sleeve Cotton Midi Dress ($38 with code BONUS, originally $50) is a summer cottagecore dream. I first bought this dress in blue and loved it so much that I ordered it in white as well. I get tons of compliments every time I wear either color. Friends often mistake it for the famous nap dress, which has a much heftier price tag.
I like to style the blue version with my The Drop Listilla Espadrille Wedge Sandals ($40) and the white version with my Altar’d State Terry Heels ($70). With that said, both of these dresses look equally as great with white sneakers and a denim jacket. Keep reading to for all the details on my new favorite summer cotton dress.
What I Like About This Old Navy Cotton Midi Dress
I have a full bust (a D-cup, to be exact) and the top of this dress is supportive enough that I don’t have to wear a bra — the dream on hot summer days. I also like that the puff sleeves are lined, which gives them the perfect amount of volume; they never look deflated or misshapen. The airy cotton fabric is comfortable and lightweight, making it ideal for the months ahead. I appreciate the loose fit around my stomach and hips; these are the widest points of my body, and it can be hard to find dresses that aren’t tight in that area. The design is roomy and spacious without looking frumpy or baggy.
What’s Worth Noting
This dress fits true to size — I’m wearing a large, which is what I typically go for. I’m pictured wearing the blue and white options, but the design also comes in black or pink. (Spoiler alert: I just ordered the black version as well.) I will note that I made the mistake of throwing my blue version into the dryer after washing it, which is why the end is a bit wrinkly in the picture. I ironed it later, and it’s now smoother than ever. I hang-dried the white version, and it came out much better. I like a lived-in look for casual days, but if I was going to a formal event, I would probably just touch these dresses up with my little travel steamer.
Who Is This Midi Dress Best For?
If you’re looking for a classic, versatile dress you can wear every week this summer, this is an excellent option. It can be worn to weekend brunches or for errands, and it can also be styled more formally for an outdoor dinner or happy hour. Plus, the affordable price tag is great if you’re on a budget.
Additional Details
- The dress comes in sizes XS-4X.
- The back of the bust area is smocked, so you get a little stretch.
- The white version of the dress has an extra lining, which ensures that it’s not see-through.
- You should machine-wash this dress on cold with a gentle cycle and hang it to dry.
Rating:
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Macy Cate Williams
