The bad news? I’m not going to lie. The shape and design of this La Ligne dress, that sold out, is breathtaking. It’s a VERY special dress, so I will absolutely let you guys know if they bring it back. But…
The good news? I’ve found 12 fantastic 100% cotton black breezy alternatives. Also…more good news. Many of the alternatives I’ve rounded up are more affordable than my La Ligne dress. So if you’re searching for the best black cotton breezy dresses for summer…don’t worry, there are plenty still out there. T Shirt Material
If you’re looking for…
I live in black breezy dresses all summer. The most versatile piece in my closet — the black cotton midi or maxi dress saves me on repeat. I grab flip-flops and sunnies, and I’m ready for an uber-casual outing…or I whisk my hair back in a bun, add pretty earrings, slip on shiny Birks and I’m fancy (but still comfortable) within seconds.
I will admit, though, that finding the best black breathable cotton dresses is sometimes a challenge. I know we all look for different things in the perfect black dress, so I rounded up 12 black breezy dresses below in various price ranges that all fill that spot in your closet for an easy-but-cute summer getting dressed option.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Bloomies
This similar Steve Madden dress is under $40, but I like the lines and details better of the dress above (that’s still under $100). The pleated detailing on the top, in addition to the ruched straps, are small additions… but they give the dress more character and personality. So pretty.
Under $100, and this dress looks so very romantic. It definitely gives me similar vibes to my La Ligne dress with its pretty cotton poplin fabric, the nipped-in waist, and full skirt. I do love a dress that looks fabulous when you spin. Added bonus: adjustable straps.
Where To Buy: Frank & Eileen ($50 off with code ESCAPE)
An amazing option if you want something simple and breathable, but you like your dresses with a bit of arm coverage. You guys know we ADORE Frank & Eileen for their high-quality forever-wearable closet staples, and although my preference would be black this does come in 14 (yes I said 14!!!!) colors. If you prefer a muscle tee sleeve here’s another option from Frank & Eileen.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Andie
Okay…so this dress is technically labeled as a “cover-up”, but that wouldn’t stop me from wearing this type of dress as “real clothes”. Especially on really hot days…the lighter and airier the better. And when it’s black I don’t typically mind if it’s on the sheer side. I love that this has a slip dress design, but looks to be a more relaxed fit than a typical slip dress. Nice simple lines and adjustable straps.
Available in standard and plus sizing, this easy dress can go strapless as well (with removable straps) and is made from crinkly light and airy gauze. Gorg!
The cult favorite Somerset comes in absolutely incredible prints and colors, but the black is classic, versatile, and so easy to wear. A great option if you like a bit of arm coverage, but want more swing and flow than the Frank & Eileen t-shirt dress. Available in standard, petite, and plus sizing.
Where To Buy: J.Crew
So many adorable and sweet details on this one. I love the dainty tie straps that can be tied as a bow or just knotted, and the the cinched drawstring waist is another great addition. And of course I love pretty much ALL things made from 100% soft gauzey material. Good job, J.Crew. Available in standard and plus sizing.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Saks | A.L.C. | Neiman
This dress is higher-end and $$$, but it is a stunner. I have this exact dress in a different colorway, and it is absolutely beautiful. Even though it’s cotton, I’ve worn it to several fancy-ish events (Bar Mitzahs, weddings, etc) because it’s very well designed and versatile. So….if your’e looking for a “forever-closet” black cotton dress that would be very easy to dress up or down and ALC is in your budget…I would definitely recommend this one.
Or….if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, this Gap dress looks pretty darn cute. It’s under $90 to start with, but it seems like Gap is almost always running SOME sort of sale, so I wouldn’t be surprised if you could snag this dress at an even lower price. Note that this model is 5’10, so the dress would be significantly longer on many of us… which I actually love. The straps are a little bit wider than many of the spaghetti strap options I have in here, so I’d likely wear a regular bra with it even though my straps might peak out just a bit.
Well hello there ASOS, creating a $130 dress very VERY similar to my $300 La Ligne beauty. It doesn’t have the same seam detailing as the La Ligne, and I can only assume that the cotton isn’t as high quality, but it does look extremely similar to my dress. Worth a try for sure if you were disappointed to see the La Ligne one go out of stock.
Where To Buy: Eileen Fisher | Bloomies | Nordstrom (limited sizing)
I’ll be honest on this one…I can’t decide if I like it here on the model, but (and this is a BIG but)…I often like Eileen Fisher pieces MUCH better in person. Made from high quality organic cotton gauze, I would bet big money this dress feels absolutely dream-like on. I also would not be surprised if this is one of those dresses that is simple, but when you lean into that “chic shapeless vibe”, it would look fabulous with the addition of big gorgeous hoop earrings and a stylish summer bag. Adjustable straps, so you could also make it lower cut if you wanted. Available in petite, standard, and plus sizing on Eileen Fisher’s site.
Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Xirena
Another simple strapless number that has a similar vibe to my La Ligne dress, but with with less seam detailing and a bit of slimmer looking skirt. Zoom in to see the ribbed cotton fabric of the top.
Any other cotton black breezy dresses you guys are wearing on repeat this summer? Please share!
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