I avoid figure-hugging sheath dresses in the summer, and opt instead for airy shirt dresses that are easier to clean and less oppressive to wear. Aside from being low-maintenance, shirt dresses are also extremely versatile and are great for transitional weather, as it can be layered in creative ways: during the week, I top it with a blazer–on chillier days I also add a base layer of lace mockneck–for air-conditioned offices; and on the weekends I wear it with extra buttons undone, a sun hat, a crossbody bag, and functional sandals.
Another shirt dress that I picked up recently and have been loving is the Boden Sophia Shirt Dress, which is a perennial bestseller for good reason: it has side pockets, is machine-washable, and has a placket designed to prevent gaping.
In sale news, Ann Taylor is running a storewide 40% off sale; use code PSST at checkout. Here are some picks: Seasonless Stretch Boatneck Sheath Dress, Seasonless Cap Sleeve Sheath Dress, Nika Suede Block Heel Sandals, Camryn Leopard Print Haircalf Bow Flats in Brown, and Siena Suede Bow Loafer Slides in Pink.
Happy shopping!