Looking for the best long sleeve dresses? I’ve found them!
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Who wants to wear a long sleeve dress in the summer? A lot of us! Personally, I love a long sleeve dress for sun protection. I also like to sport long sleeve dresses when my legs are significantly lighter than my arms. By wearing long sleeves with a short skirt, it helps even out the coloring.
Over the years, I’ve worked with many older women who prefer to keep their arms covered. I’ve also had a handful of very modest younger clients who prefer long sleeves. If you’re one of the women seeking a great long sleeve dress this season, you’ve come to the right place.
Read on to see the 17 best long-sleeve dresses, handpicked by a personal stylist.
Best Long Sleeve Dresses for Women
While my list features a lot of casual picks, many of these long sleeve dresses can be worn to work, on a date, or even to a wedding. You’ll just need the right accessories.
Veronica Beard Tonya Stripe Mini Dress
This is such a fun, flirty take on a shirt dress. Since it’s Veronica Beard, you just know it’s going to be flattering. It’s made from stretch cotton, with a cotton lining. This makes it comfortable and breathable too. It runs true to size.
Lauren Ralph Lauren Jersey Gown
Though it’s billed as a gown, I don’t see why you can’t pair this with espadrilles and a Panama hat for a chic summer look. I will caution that this gown is a bit heavy for hot climates. It’s also best left to my taller ladies. If you’re petite, even if you get it hemmed, the waist and neckline won’t sit correctly.
Alice + Olivia Lyla Blouson Sleeve Dress
I love the bold print and cool viscose material of this dress from Alice + Olivia. They remain one of my favorite contemporary brands. This item runs true to size.
Vince Camuto Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
I love the feminine flow of this dress, great for a rectangle body type. The length is also perfect for my taller girls. It’s also got a subtly patriotic pattern. If you’re into theme dressing for the 4th of July, give this one a go.
Velvet Chanelle Cotton Lace Midi Dress
Can anything scream “Summer!” louder than a white cotton dress? Doubtful. I love that this cotton frock is machine washable. I wouldn’t put it in the dryer though. This style runs true to size and will be a maxi length if you’re under 5’7”.
Eliza J Cascading Ruffle Long Sleeve Dress
This is another great dress that can be worn to a nice dinner or a summer wedding. I love that it provides full chest coverage, yet it has sheer sleeves and a slit. This prevents it from being too matronly. This dress runs small, and the hip area can be tight. Order 1 size up, maybe even 2 if you’re between sizes. And skip it altogether if you’re bigger on the bottom.
Diane Von Furstenberg Long Sleeve Mini Dress
I adore the bold, bright print of this DVF dress. Who could be in a bad mood while sporting this adorable number? It runs true to size. However, it may be too short for those of you over 5’7”.
Alice + Olivia Tiered Mini Dress
This is such a fun, whimsical, and unique summer dress. It has so many flattering elements, like the defined waist and tummy-camouflaging pattern. It’s easy to see why it’s been so popular this season. This dress runs true to size.
Argent Easy Shirt Dress
This is a great shirt dress, made of a wonderful material that you’ll want to live in. Sure, it looks more flattering belted and with the sleeves rolled up, but something about the cut makes wearing it relaxed look chic too. It’s one of those fabulously unflattering pieces. If you’re over 5’7” you can even pair this one with a fashion sneaker.
GAP 100% Organic Cotton Shirt Dress
Do you want long sleeves, a short hem, and a great price? Check out this offering from GAP. It’s 100% organic cotton, so it will be comfortable and breathable even in the warmest, most humid climates.
Farm Rio Cool Leopards Maxi Dress
Who can resist the bold, fun patterns of Farm Rio? Clearly, not me! Their fun prints take dopamine dressing to the next level. This long-sleeve number is no exception. While the back is open, it’s high enough to conceal any lower back fat. Wear it to the beach, the pool, or on vacation. Pair with metallic sandals.
Milly Liv Pleated Fit and Flare Long Sleeve Dress
Embrace the Barbiecore trend without tripping into the juvenile. This is a sophisticated take on a hot pink dress. Of course, if you prefer neutrals, this flattering fit-and-flare design is available in white too.
Eliza J Sequin Long Sleeve Jumpsuit
While this one isn’t technically a long sleeve dress, it’s too fabulous to leave off my list. Consider a sparkly jumpsuit for your next summer soiree. You may want to stitch the bust if you’re bigger on top.
Mac Duggal Gathered Tiered Long Sleeve Dress
I am living for the pretty, romantic vibe of this long sleeve dress from Mac Duggal. Note that it will be a maxi length on those of us under 5’7″. It runs true to size.
The Best (Not Fully) Long Sleeve Dresses
The garments below aren’t quite long sleeve dresses. They feature 3/4 to bracelet-length sleeves. However, this can still work for arm-concealing purposes. It simply depends on your needs.
Free People Golden Hour Maxi Dress
While this sleeve won’t go down to your wrist,it will cover any areas of concern. The Free People Golden Hour dress is romantic and bohemian. I will advise you that it’s very low cut. This style works best for women who are comfortable showing their busts.
Farm Rio Pineapple Garden Maxi Dress
This is pretty much a caftan–a fabulous caftan that I want to live in! The 100% viscose material will keep you cool while the pattern will have you feeling like you’re on a tropical vacation–even when you’re not.
Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Calantine Dress
Do you want to lose ten pounds before an upcoming event? Forget about it and buy this dress instead. The ruching, deep v-neck, asymmetric hem, and fitted sleeves will have you looking trim with zero effort. The green color is also flattering on most skin tones, especially for my redheaded gals. Another thing to love about this particular dress? It can go from work to a wedding by simply changing up the accessories.
Final Thoughts on the Best Long Sleeve Summer Dresses
See? Long sleeve dresses are not just for the colder months. They have their place in summer fashion too. Whether you’re looking for sun protection, want to even out your skin tone, or prefer a more modest style, long sleeve dresses can be a stylish and practical choice.
These dresses offer versatility. Many of them can be dressed up or down for various occasions, from vacation to work, dates, or even weddings. With the right accessories, these dresses can fit any event.
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