Best Spring Dresses Under $50 — Our FAV Picks by Budget Fashionista

These picks for affordable and wearable spring dresses are runway-inspired — but not in the way you’d think. They’re my counterpoint to some of the more ridiculous spring trends. For example, runways tell me that feathers and bare abs are hot this spring. And you know? I’m just not that into it.

I can see the fun in a subtle feather detail or a tiny side cutout in an evening dress. But show-girl feathers and miles of abs on display don’t have a place in my wardrobe. You might feel differently — and that is fabulous. By all means, do you.

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Me? I’m looking forward to warmer days when I can slip into some simple, affordable, easygoing spring dresses. Here are my top picks.

1. T-shirt floral ($44)

A t-shirt dress is the perfect grab-and-go piece for spring through summer. When it’s still chilly in spring, you can add your favorite denim jacket or cardigan and light scarf to this one, along with your cutest sneakers. As the days heat up, drop the extra layers and switch to sandals or flip flops.

What I love about this t-shirt dress is the retro floral pattern and the dolman sleeves for a pretty feminine shape.

You’ll see lots of 70s-inspired patterns this season. If you like that look, invest in the pieces that are subtle enough to wear again next year — since the groovy look won’t have staying power.

2. Sleeveless mini ($19)

This sleeveless piece from ASOS with button-down detail is on hand for lunch with friends and city shopping. You can dress it up with mules, big sunglasses, and a sweater tied over your shoulders. Or, don a floppy hat and sandals and wear this dress to the beach if weather allows.

3. Hot pink with statement sleeves ($25 on sale)

Twenty-five bucks is a great price on this dress, which is head-turning and so easy to wear. Made of viscose with an A-line shape, the dress has a light, flowy drape. Add in the cut-out sleeves and the piece has a Greek goddess feel to it.

Wear it to spring parties or daytime occasions when you’re ready to stand out.

4. Simple tie-back ($47)

Here’s another piece that’s ready to be part of your weekly rotation. It’s simple in the very best way. An elastic waist hints at your curves and the flutter sleeves add balance if you’re curvy in the hips and thighs.

Add a pretty pendant necklace and your favorite daytime lip color, and you’re polished with minimal effort.

5. Boho midi spring dress ($30)

This boho midi spring dress makes the list for its super-flattering shape. The high waist and a-line skirt combined with v-neck and light pleating at the shoulder puts curves and proportion in all the right places.

Also, if you don’t normally wear boho, this dress could be a nice way to give the style a try. You could wear this dress to a festival if you wanted, but it also works for brunch, shopping, or a casual date night. On that note, the sheer polka dot skirt is flirty over that shorter underlayer — hinting at your legs without putting them on display.

6. Retro slip dress ($15)

The price point of $15 isn’t the only thing to love about this patterned slip dress from NastyGal. It’s bright, fun, and versatile. Wear it as a statement piece on its own or use layers to change the vibe. For example:

• A t-shirt underneath, short- or long-sleeved, adds sweetness to this sexy silhouette — especially if you anchor the outfit with sneakers.
• Slip a long cardigan over the top and don a chunky ankle boot. That’s a stylish combo with an off-duty, celebrity vibe.
• For a night out, pair your fav faux leather moto jacket and strappy heels with this dress.

7. Polo dress ($35)

A pretty blue polo that’s long enough to wear on its own? Sign me up. The color of this spring dress is gorgeous — a soft, flattering blue that also has a calming quality to it.

Reach for this dress when comfort is key, but sweats won’t do for the occasion. Jazz it up with a neck scarf or long-sleeved shirt or sweater underneath. Bright white sneakers and no-show socks are the perfect finishers here.

8. Poet swing dress ($45)

This flouncy, bouncy swing dress screams spring. It has three-quarter sleeves, a fun pattern, and elastic in all the right places. You bring the smile and whatever shoes you feel like wearing, and this outfit is ready for all types of daytime fun — shopping, beach-going, lunching, whatever.