Our Favorite Fit and Flare Dresses for Under $90

DKNY Fall 2014

DKNY Fall 2014

If fall was all about flowing fabrics and rich textures, spring has shifted the focus from deep jewel tones and sheer overlays to a retro flirty shape that’s making a big return. Fit and flare dresses are sweet and springtime ready, so take a cue from girly girls such as Zooey Deschanel and even more edgy fashion mavens such as January Jones for an instant update.

Even brands that take inspiration from the street, such as DKNY (pictured at left) added a little bit of fun with the fit and flare shape, although Donna Karan chose to counter the über-girly shape with masculine pieces such as oversized t-shirts and moto jackets.

We’ve gathered together our favorite fun, flirty fit and flare dresses — all under $90 — that will have you looking picture perfect at bridal showers, summer weddings or impromptu al fresco picnics. And with the heat wave that’s leaving SoCal sizzling, we can’t think of a better time to retire those jeans and say yes to a dress.

Collective Concepts Pink Lace Detail Dress

Collective Concepts Pink Lace Detail Dress

One reason the fit and flare is so great is that it instantly gives your body a few key curves. Add to the illusion with this Collective Concepts Pink Lace Detail Dress ($34.97), which gives your waistline extra emphasis with two sweet lace panels. The bright color will set you apart from a sea of black dresses no matter where you plan on wearing this (we think it’s pretty perfect for a bridal or baby shower). Try this out and you might find that you’ll reach for it all summer long.

Available at Piperlime.

Rhyme Los Angeles Birdie Eyelet Dress

Rhyme Los Angeles Birdie Eyelet Dress

Few items harken the arrival of warm weather like a great white eyelet dress. You don’t have to live south of the Mason Dixon to get plenty of mileage out of a flirty frock like the Rhyme Los Angeles Birdie Eyelet Dress ($79). This rich, white hot dress has plenty of texture to keep things interesting and maintains a great fit and flare that’ll undo all the myths that are associated with white — you won’t look a bit wider when you’re waist is cinched in. Pair this with a pair of wedge espadrilles for a regatta-ready look or wear it with classic canvas sneakers to add a dash of downtown cool.

Available at Piperlime.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Zip Front Fit and Flare Dress

MICHAEL Michael Kors Zip Front Fit and Flare Dress

If you are looking for a go-to LBD, a fit and flare is a surefire way to take it away from basic. The MICHAEL Michael Kors Zip Front Fit and Flare Dress ($77.98) goes one step further and adds a sexy front zipper — use it at your own discretion — to the classic skater silhouette. If you’re more petite, a more exaggerated flare such as this one will add some more emphasis and elongate your body and add a more curvaceous line. Go all-out Audrey and pile on the pearls with a dress like this or keep things sleek and simple for a modern, clean look that’ll never go out of style.

Available at Nordstrom.

C. Luce Poppy Fit and Flare Dress

C. Luce Poppy Fit and Flare Dress

Go bold in this bright floral C. Luce Poppy Fit and Flare Dress ($89). Fans of Betty Draper are sure to get Mad Men ready with this retro-flavored frock. What keeps the dress modern are touches such a pink underpinning that peeks out between the oversized flowers and a super-flattering shorter length. A look like this begs for a clean ponytail and kitten heels, but go against type with badass leather booties, a slick moto jacket and smoky eye for an unexpected take on a classic look.

Available at Piperlime.

Pim + Larkin Printed Fit and Flare Dress

Pim + Larkin Printed Fit and Flare Dress

Get print perfect with the  Pim + Larkin Printed Fit and Flare Dress ($69.97). The perfect choice for after-dark fun, this moody take on the fit and flare trend is a great transition piece if you don’t want a dress that’s strictly scheduled for just warm weather. Wear this dress with a slouchy boyfriend blazer at work and you won’t have to change at all if you’re headed out after hours. We love pairing big, bold statement necklace with prints (more is more!) and for the perfect finishing touch, choose a great shoe — metallic, maybe? — and you’ll be collecting compliments all night long.

Available at Piperlime.

 Shop our favorite fit-and-flare dresses:

Images courtesy Style, Nordstrom and Piperlime

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Author:Christopher Luu for Fashion Trends Daily

Christopher Luu is a Fashion Trends Daily Senior Writer and Menswear Editor.