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I don’t know about you, but every summer I usually end up with one go-to dress that I wear over and over again, which I fondly refer to as my “summer uniform.” Since I’m getting ready for a big move this weekend, I’ve been thinking a lot about my summer uniform the last few days and am so thankful I have a great one this year.

I’m moving a long-distance, so my stuff won’t be arriving for two to five business days until after I arrive, which means I’ve got to bring some clothes to tide me over. That’s all fine and dandy, except that I have a small car and two cats to transport along with other various items that can’t go with the movers. This means I have to pack extremely light (not a strong point for me) and think really strategically about what clothing items to bring. Thank goodness I’ve already got an awesome summer dress that I’ll be wearing a whole lot until the rest of my clothes arrive.

I’ve never really purchased a dress with the intention of it being my summer uniform, but I just realized that the one that fit the bill for me last summer, and one that’s quickly becoming this summer’s favorite, have a ton in common.

Here’s this summer’s favorite from Anthropologie:

This dress was a little on the pricy side for me, but I fell in love with the bright and fun pattern as soon as I saw it, so my husband (a very smart man) got it for me for my birthday. Needless to say it’s already earned it’s keep and I’m even strongly considering buying it in the other color it comes in too!

My favorite dress from last summer, which still on pretty heavy rotation in my wardrobe now too, is from J.Crew Factory. They no longer carry the exact dress, but this one is an extremely close match, with the only real difference being a slight variation in the pattern:

I have to give a little disclosure on this dress, since it’s from J.Crew outlet, the one I have is sewn a tiny bit off. However, I can honestly say I didn’t notice it until halfway through last summer, and I received so many compliments on the dress I don’t think anyone could tell. It doesn’t stop me from loving the dress, but it can be a tiny bit annoying at times.

Anyway, since these two dresses have become serious wardrobe staples for me, I thought I’d share some of the qualities that make them so awesome. If you don’t already have a fabulous summer dress (or two, or three), try to find one with the following qualities. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

1. Versatility – Both of my dresses could be worn with flats or dressier wedges, making them appropriate for an array of events.

2. Comfort – These dresses both still feel great after a big meal. They can also both be worn with a conventional bra and have loops in the straps to keep bra straps in place.

3. Packability – These dresses are both made from a heavier cotton material, which may seem counter productive in summer months, but this keeps them from wrinkling when packed. Since they’re both tank-dresses, I don’t find the fabric to be too hot, and it doesn’t stick to you like some thinner materials would when you’re sweaty.

4. Fun Pattern – This isn’t as important as some of the other features, but I think I’d get bored wearing these dresses all the time if they were just solid colors. The only drawback here is that it’s more noticeable if you wear them often, but I like to believe that no one really pays that much attention. Also, I’m bad with accessories, so having a dress that’s interesting on it’s own is better for me and less to pack when I’m traveling.

5. Machine Washable – Washability is a big one for me, especially in the summer. Since I wear these dresses so frequently, it’s important to be able to wash them at home.

Do you have a “summer uniform?” If so, let us know in the comments! I’m always on the looking for more versatile dresses and outfits. You really can’t have enough of those in your closet.

Nicole