The Best Nap Dresses To Wake Up Your Wardrobe

Call me “cottagecore” all you want, but put me in a nightgown and play Taylor Swift in the background, and I’m a happy gal. As working from home has become the new norm, I’ve grown bored of my basic T-shirt and leggings wardrobe and I’ve decided to level up to the “nap dress,” aka the garment everyone seems to be wearing nowadays. And when it comes to finding the perfect “nap dress,” the key is looking for a fit that is soft enough to go to bed in, but is still stylish enough to garner some “ooohs” and “aaahs” on a morning Zoom call or wear with some boots and a puffer for a quick grocery run.

What is a “nap dress”?

Though the style of the”nap dress” has technically been around for years, the term  was trademarked by Hill House’s founder Nell Diamond.  She sought to create something comfortable to wear as a busy mother of twins yet stylish and versatile enough to wear beyond the home. Thus, the “nap dress” was born. It’s a style that often features puffy or ruffled sleeves, heavy smocking, an elastic bodice and a tiered skirt. The dresses are comfy enough to sleep in but still dressy enough to rock on Sunday brunch.

These are the best nap dresses for sleeping, snacking, dining out, Zooming, dancing around your bedroom, and everything in between.

Best nap dresses to add to your wardrobe

Hill House The Ellie Nap Dress — $150.00

Look up “nap dress” in the dictionary and this dress will surely come up as the OG. Made mostly of soft and breathable cotton, the Ellie Nap Dress is something you can wear just about anywhere. It has an elastic bodice that stretches to fit a multitude of body types, a tiered midi skirt and pockets.

ASTR The Label Angeles Puff Sleeve Cutout Dress — $164.00

If you like an element of surprise in your wardrobe, this ASTR The Label Angeles Puff Sleeve Cutout Dress definitely checks all the right boxes. While it looks like a standard nap-style dress from the front, there’s a party in the back. It has a cutout tie on the backside that shows off off your skin.

R.Vivimos Half Sleeve Ruffled Dress — $36.00

With nearly 500 five-star reviews, this R.Vivimos Half Sleeve Ruffled Dress is easily a fan-favorite on Amazon. Not only is it easy to wear but it’s also versatile. You can switch up the style by letting the sleeves hang off the shoulders. Additionally, the dress comes in multiple colors including sky blue, purple, and grey.

LPA Auburn Dress — $290.00

If you’re looking to have a “wow” moment in your wardrobe, you can’t go wrong with this LPA Auburn Dress. Its high slit and open back shows off some major skin while the loose-fit skirt gives you an ultra-flattering silhouette. Not to mention, the dress is super soft and easy to move around in thanks to the smooth rayon material.

Topshop Shirred Long Sleeve Gingham Midi Dress — $84.00

Not sure what to wear to brunch on a hot day? Consider this Topshop Shirred Long Sleeve Gingham Midi Dress. Unlike some dresses, this one doesn’t have a lining so it stays cool and breathable 24/7. The fabric is also super stretchy throughout the bust and arms to give you a Goldilocks fit. Pair it with some espadrilles to dress it up or keep it casual with some low-top sandals and a leather jacket.

Free People Marina Mini Dress — $88.00

Not all “nap dresses” have to be long, and this Free People Marina Mini Dress is the perfect example. It has three “wow” features that we love, including a cinch-tie back strap, puffy sleeves, and pockets! As a bonus, you can scoop up the dress in six other colors including wild garnet red, humus and lake blue.

Atsu Off-The-Shoulder Poplin Midi Dress — $230.00

Whether you’re going on a date or attending an engagement party, this Atsu Off-The-Shoulder Poplin Midi Dress is sure to make a lasting impression. Made with 100 percent cotton, it’s incredibly breathable and soft to the touch. The back zipper also helps cinch you in and highlight your waist. To zhuzh it up, style it with some gladiator sandals or some wedges for a chic spring look.

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