by Bekah Brunstetter

Created on: July 12, 2007

You don't need me to tell you that a vast array of cute dresses are crucial for the summer. It's a easy way to look cute with little effort, and they keep you properly ventilated. I mean, who wants to trudge through 90 degree humidity with frizzy hair AND sweaty pants? Ew. Not me. A light summer dress releases you from the prison of (literal) Hot Pants, and forces you to embrace your inner forest fairy. They are the essence of girl.

Before I get specific in terms of where to look: here's a few dress-buying tips:
It's good to have a few special occasion dresses: dresses with louder prints, bolder cuts. But it's MORE important and more economical to invest in a dress that can be dressed up or down and that you can imagine yourself wearing for a few years.

Okay, Now you're convinced. But before you blow your rent at Anthropologie or Zara, let it be known that cute summer dresses do NOT have to blow your bank. A few of my favorite hot spots for good dresses are Old Navy, Forever 21, American Apparel, and yes Goodwill.

Also, know that if you get the it cheap dress' the crazy patterned seasonal dress from Old Navy or Forever 21 or the Gap, what have you you most likely will see every one and their Mother wearing it as you waltz down the street, feeling special in your new find. But if this doesn't bother you go for it.

Let's start with the old favorite, the massive (hit-or-miss) cheap as cute wherehouse that is Old Navy. Or, as my vegan, socially conscience friend lovingly refers to it: Old Slavey. If the whole sweat shop thing doesn't irk you too much, definitely check Old Navy out for soft, light-weight flowy dresses. Here, you'll find quite a spread of lengths and cuts, from bathing suit throw-overs to business casual from $18-$34. Nice. Old Navy doesn't always have the best color choices (sometimes I wish they'd use more primary colors) and it's oftentimes a season behind in terms of style, but if you're looking for something simple, this is great place to check. My favorite Old Navy Dress is ankle-length and soft army green with an empire waist and a cute plunging neck line. It looks great with gladiators and is perfect for bumming around. Purchased this season for just $24.

Next up, Forever 21. And you thought Old Navy was overwhelming! This ginormous store literally overflows with cute dresses. The product in these huge stores change CONSTANTLY and there are hundreds of dresses to choose from. They're not the most well made dresses in the world which is why they

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