Sundresses - Definition

Sundresses is an informal dress of any shape in a lightweight fabric, most commonly cotton, intended for summer wear. Sundresses for women are intended to be worn without a layering top, and the design must therefore cut a balance between modesty and allowing sun exposure. Lilly Pulitzer popularized the sundresses in the 1960's.

The girls sundresses provides a feminine look that may be lighter and more comfortable than a skirt and blouse, or another sort of dress. Modern styles can feature very low necklines and short hemlines, but more modest lengths and a variety of patterns are also widely available.

As described by R&B artist Big Joe Turner in his 1954 "race" record "Shake, Rattle and Roll" on the Atlantic label through Charles E. Calhoun's lyrics. "Way you wear those cotton sundresses, the sun comes shinning' through. Way you wear those cute sundresses, the sun comes shining' through. I can't believe my eyes, all that mess belongs to you.