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19 hours ago
5
I've been a huge fan of Caroline Moss ever since I read a profile that featured her in The New York Times two years ago. She began her career as an editor and producer, later branching off to do her own thing, which included starting the popular Gee Thanks, Just Bought It community. Dedicated to all things shopping, it includes multiple Facebook groups, a newsletter, a podcast and a Substack. Moss often doles out buying advice and product recommendations that her legions of fans look forward to, but one of my favorites is her annual declaration of the "dress of the year." She crowns one winner annually, and 2025's pick was just announced. It's the Old Navy Waist-Defined Ruffled Midi Dress.
Moss does a stellar job of selecting a dress that will look good on many body types. This cinched-waist design is available in regular, petite and tall lengths in sizes XS-4X. There are four colors to choose from, including mint green, a vibrant orange, a white floral and classic black. The dress is made from 100% cotton and is machine-washable.
The criteria are pretty straightforward to be a contender for Moss's DOTY. It's gotta be flattering and affordable. Seems simple, but many, many dresses fall short. But not this under-$40 Old Navy find that ticks both boxes.
"It's the kind of dress that slots perfectly into real life — whether you’re running late to a meeting, grabbing coffee with a friend, or realizing you forgot to buy a gift on the way to a birthday dinner," Moss writes in her newsletter. "It's comfortable, flattering, and doesn’t require shapewear, strategic layering, or a complicated bra situation."
Old Navy shoppers overwhelmingly agree with her expert assessment of the standout style. The dress is a relatively new addition to the Old Navy lineup, but it's already garnered more than 450 five-star reviews.
"Wore this dress for Easter and felt so good in it! Love the shape, material and basically everything about it. SO flattering! Want to buy all the colors/prints!" one fan commented. Another fan raved about its universal and comfy design: "[I have a] heavy bust and [this] fits so nicely. It cinches at the waist and the elastic is not tight at all."
This dress is so universal that even expectant moms give it rave reviews. "I am 4'10" and 8 months pregnant. The XS Petite fits perfectly," one mama-to-be shared. "The length reaches a few inches above my ankle, so a true midi dress. Very comfy and flattering, and has pockets! I'll be able to use it after pregnancy as well."
Loving the idea of a flattering dress that works for every occasion this spring and summer? Go all in and shop similar styles with that same waist-cinching, smocking magic — all under $100 — below.
You know how dresses can sometimes feel stuffy and constricting? Not this Gap Factory steal. The cotton-blend fabric is lightweight and breathable, and the swingy skirt hangs nicely over your lower half.
"This dress is not only adorable but super comfortable!" one shopper shared.
No warm-weather wardrobe is complete without a white dress, so consider snagging this pretty pick while it's 50% off. The laser-cut scalloped hem makes it feel special and unique, and the linen-blend material is ideal for hot, humid summer weather.
Worried about keeping it clean? You can grab this frock in black too.
There's nothing better than a one-and-done outfit, and this floral print maxi definitely fits the bill. It's not too revealing, so it's appropriate for work or a school event, but you can also easily make it feel fancy enough for a date or drinks with friends by adding heels, nice jewelry and a bold lip.
"Absolutely beautiful dress. The cut and the color are so flattering," one fan raved about this 50%-off Gap design. "Perfect sundress," declared another.
While many shoppers are excited to wear this piece all season long, some have noted that sizing can be tricky, with most commenting that it runs large. Consider trying it on at your local store or ordering a few sizes to find the best fit.
When it's too hot to wear jeans but you love denim, reach for this cute dress. The cinching at the middle will work wonders on your waistline without being tight or uncomfortable, and the length is just right for folks who don't mind showing a little leg. Choose from regular, tall and petite in sizes XXS-XXL.
A smocked-waist dress? In butter yellow, no less? Two trends in one means this is a no-brainer. Add to that a seriously discounted 40%-off sale price and an inclusive size range, and I'm not sure what you're still doing here. Add this baby to your cart, stat!
As an avid stripes wearer, this find is at the top of my summer shopping list. Vertical stripes have a slimming, elongating effect that I really appreciate, and the neckline is feminine without being too revealing. I'm imagining wearing it with white sneakers for a casual look or adding slide sandals for a night out. Either way, it's a versatile investment piece that won't go out of style anytime soon.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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