June 5, 2024, 8:22 PM UTC

By Tanya Edwards

Summer is in the air (if not yet on the calendar), which means it’s time to stock up on your favorite sandals, sunnies and, naturally, sundresses. I live in dresses year-round, but the idea of a summer capsule wardrobe full of brightly colored styles — with loads of fun accessories, of course — is so appealing.

For a Saturday running errands, a trip to the beach, brunch with your friends or even a low stakes date night — an easy sundress is just the thing. Luckily for me (and all of you reading), I found a cute option on Amazon that checks all of the boxes in design and wear.

Aloodor Casual Dress

Casual Dress

$27.12

$33.98

Colorways: 24 | Sizes: S-XXL | Materials: 95% cotton, 5% spandex

Why I like this dress

I love a dress with pockets!

What immediately impressed me (besides the 2,500 five-star reviews!) was the adorable gathered sleeves that gives a flattering "poof" around the top of the arms, the gentle V-neck dip of the neckline and the slight A-line silhouette. After that, it was the vast selection of shades and prints, which range from solid colorways to vibrant gradients to a selection of florals. And the cherry on top? They have the holy grail detail of dresses: pockets!

I decided to go bold and opted for the "Barbie" pink version, which, while bright, could be easily styled with almost any neutral accessories — be it a beige cardigan, a black purse or classic sunglasses.

Courtesy of Tanya Edwards, Shop TODAY Contributor

It's flattering, stretchy and comfortable

After reading some reviews, I saw that some shoppers noted the dress ran a little small. Since I bounce between a size 6 and 8 (and I’m a little busty), I ordered a medium, which fit perfectly.

Many reviewers also said that the dress is flattering and comfortable, and I have to agree. The fabric is mostly cotton with a little bit of spandex, so it had just the right amount of movement and stretch. The hemline hit a couple of inches above my knees — I’m 5’4 — but didn’t feel too short. The stretchy fabric allowed for a little give, so when I sat down I was still fully covered — no thighs touching dirty seats! I also liked that the dress didn’t lose its shape after hopping in and out of my car all day.

What to consider

While the description on Amazon called this dress something you could wear to a cocktail party or wedding, I'd say the T-shirt style and feel makes it look a little too casual for nicer occasions. This is more of a "toss on and go" with a cute pair of sneakers when running to the store or meeting friends for happy hour.

It’s also an ideal summer travel dress that I can already tell will pack easily. More importantly, the soft fabric doesn’t seem to hold wrinkles. I’m planning on rolling it up and popping it into my bag for trips to the beach this summer. It’s the kind of dress I’d wear to dinner with some cute sandals and big hoop earrings, and then throw on the next day over a bathing suit for a day at the shore.