Summer is officially upon us, so we’re entering the period where dresses and sandals are the stars of the show. This is the outfit combo I’ll be repeating for the next few months, so now is the time to stock up on both—before temperatures reach their peak and before the best styles sell out. These two categories do the heavy lifting in the summer, so it’s wise to curate a good assortment. Whether you’re headed on vacation or simply prepping for the season, securing your favorite dresses and sandals is highly recommended.
I’ve been saving the standout styles (both for my personal collection and for this story) and have amassed a list of 39 pretty options that are stunning and under $250. I love an affordable find as much as the next person, and this summer, brands have really delivered on pieces you’ll want to wear over and over again. I’m talking about lace-trim minidresses, embroidered white maxis, raffia-adorned mules, and, of course, the beaded sandals you’re already seeing all over Instagram. Ready to see the list? Below, I’m highlighting the best affordable dresses and sandals for summer 2026.
The definition of a summer dress.
The shells!
It’s little-white-dress season, and this one is so pretty.
Your new vacation shoes.
This looks triple the price.
It’s all about beaded sandals this summer.
How fun!
Barely-there sandals scream summer.
I can’t resist a halter neckline.
Chic.
This is in my cart as we speak.
Okay, H&M!
Scarf prints are trending.
Colorful sandals just feel right.
This comes in white too.
I love an animal-print moment.
The ruching is just stunning.
The brown is also gorgeous.
These really elongate your legs.
So romantic.
Made for vacation.
A forever dress.
These are perfect minimalist sandals—so fitting from Calvin Klein.
There’s no such thing as too many white dresses.
Talk about sandals that go with everything.
I just love an easy dress.
The styling possibilities are endless.
Stripes are synonymous with summer.
Party shoes!
It’s the lace-and-linen combo for me.
The color of the summer.
Vacation is calling.
Chic and comfortable.
Look at those eyelet details.
Thong sandals are the moment.
Going to a summer event?
That’s one elevated sandal style.
You had me at eyelet details.
Spice up your everyday outfits.
