My Friends Keep Texting Me for Daytime Dress Recommendations⁠—I’m Into These 20

Being a fashion editor usually entails keeping up with, you know, fashion. Tracking down emerging designers, keeping tabs on waiting list–worthy products, and knowing the newest up-and-coming brands are just a few parts of my job. It’s a lot of moving parts, but I love it.

Part of what comes with the territory is getting asked style-related questions by friends and family. My mom and sisters text me on at least a bi-monthly basis asking for advice on where to look for a specific piece (like a wedding guest dress or winter coat). While this may not sound all that exciting to you, my point is that I’m usually fielding a fair amount of questions on where to shop, so I decided to turn the latest friend’s question into a story: where to shop for great daytime dresses.

Ahead, I’ve rounded up 20 versatile dresses that can be worn to the office or during the day on the weekend. They’re nothing overtly splashy (no sequins in sight), but they’re also nowhere near boring. To see what I mean, keep scrolling to snag the new daytime dresses you’ll wear on repeat for months—and maybe even years—to come.

This easy dress has all the trappings of a ’70s-inspired aesthetic. Just add a cool turtleneck and your favorite boots.

Two plaids are better than one.

The origami-like folds make this cream-colored dress feel especially unique. 

There’s no going wrong with a camel-colored sweaterdress.

A versatile plaid dress is a cold-weather game-changer.

Just add tights and tall boots.

This is the kind of simple dress you don’t always think to buy but end up wearing all of the time.

Layer a sherpa jacket on top of this striped midi.

For colder months, layer a turtleneck underneath this pretty wrap dress.

The high neck and slit on this ribbed dress contrast each other quite nicely.

Did someone say utility chic?

Go for mint green this holiday season.

Fair Isle is always a smart choice come holiday season.

Meet your new favorite work-to-drinks dress.

Just one of those effortless floral dresses.

Winter or not, there’s always a place for a pop of yellow.

Translate this sleeveless dress to colder months with a warm coat and knee-high boots.

The tie in the front of this cargo dress makes the entire vibe feel more polished.

An excellent illustration of how to do tie-dye during autumn and winter.

There are so many different ways to style this check dress. Layer a thin turtleneck underneath and pair with socks and loafers for the office. Going to dinner? Leave a few buttons undone and accessorize with architectural earrings and cool croc-effect boots.

Next, see 24 of the best dresses for fall at every price point.