sundress
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈʌndrɛs/
US
- /ˈsʌnˌdrɛs/noun
Description
- Light summer dress
- sleeveless & casual
- warm-weather wear
Imagine a hot summer day: sunshine warming your skin, a gentle breeze, and the perfect outfit. Often, that is a sundress. A sundress is usually a light, casual dress made for warm weather. It is often made from airy fabrics like cotton or linen and often has no sleeves or has thin straps, though the style can vary a lot. Think of picnics in the park, walks by the beach, or a lazy afternoon outside: those are the kinds of moments this dress fits best.
The name itself brings to mind sunshine and easy summer days. What started as simple, practical warm-weather clothing has become a familiar fashion choice, showing up in floral prints, bright colors, and dressier designs. You might see someone wearing one to a casual garden party or dressing it up a little for a summer evening out.
A sundress is more than just a piece of clothing; it represents summer ease and a carefree style. Traditionally, it was a simple, lightweight dress made for warm weather, designed to be comfortable and practical during the hottest months. The name likely comes from dresses worn while spending time outdoors in the sun.
However, over time, the sundress has evolved beyond its purely functional origins. Today, it encompasses a wide range of styles, lengths, and fabrics. You might find a classic cotton sundress with delicate floral prints, perfect for a picnic. Or perhaps a more sophisticated silk or linen sundress, suitable for a summer wedding or evening event. Some sundresses are short and flirty, while others are long and flowing, offering more coverage.
The key characteristics remain: lightweight fabric, an often sleeveless cut (though some styles include sleeves), and a design intended for warm weather. They're frequently associated with vacations, relaxation, and a generally cheerful aesthetic. You might read about a character in a novel "throwing on a sundress" before heading out for the day, instantly painting a picture of warmth and freedom.
So, whether it's a simple cotton frock or an elegant silk creation, a sundress is a symbol of summer—a comfortable, stylish choice that captures the spirit of sunshine and relaxation.
Examples
- 1
Brunch outfit
She threw on a sundress and sandals before meeting us for brunch.
- 2
Beach trip
I packed two sundresses for the beach trip because they are light and easy to wear.
- 3
Casual invitation
The invitation said casual, so even a simple sundress was fine.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- sundressnoun