As the summertime saying goes: It's getting hot in here, so take off all your clothes. And, while we often wish that going au naturel (or, at least in our enviable skivvies) were socially acceptable outside of the comfort of our own home, sometimes, we just have to suck it up and put on clothes to do things such as, you know, go to work and ride public transportation like everyone else. But, that doesn't mean we won't try to get away with wearing as little as possible when the mercury climbs. Enter the quest for the perfect summer dress.

To keep your wardrobe, wallet, and comfort level in perfect equilibrium, follow our lead with these affordable options that are both on point sartorially and a sound use of your cold, hard cash. For that extra bit of breathing room, your limbs will thank you. 

A breezy alternative to a matching set, with a cute cutout in back.

Mango Double Layer Dress, $79.99, available at Mango.

The feel of lingerie with a bit more polish.

Babaton Lohan Mid Length Dresses, $99, available at Aritzia.

The adjustable tie-front means this dress is flattering on a number of figures.

Miss Selfridge Petites Orange Tie Front Dress, $61, available at Miss Selfridge.

Since you're planning to go a little wild on that vacation you have coming.

Chicnova Christmas Leopard Dress, $20.35, available at Chicnova.

For the dog days of summer.

& Other Stories Dalmatian Jersey Dress, $75, available at & Other Stories.

Super-thin straps, a peekaboo bottom, and subtle side slips all add up to one sexy dress that handles the heat.

Boohoo Phoebe Woven High Neck Midi Column Dress, $26, available at Boohoo.

This dress is actually two pieces, meaning you can mix and match the embroidered top with other slips in your closet, depending on the weather report.

Front Row Shop Embroidered Two-Piece Dress, $55, available at Front Row Shop.

Brigitte Bardot had the right idea with that off-the-shoulder look locked down.

Choies Blue Off Shoulder Ruffle Denim Sexy Mini Dresses, $26.99, available at Choies.

Try wearing this bib silhouette with a crisp white tee or tank underneath for weather-appropriate versatility.

Motel Nadine Pinafore Dress in Museum Floral Ochre, $68, available at Motel Rocks.

The open-weave mesh and Grecian-inspired cut make this formal dress less stuffy, literally.

SheInside Black One Shoulder Grid Flare Dress, $37.67, available at Sheinside.

While this dress is body-hugging, the jersey means it's still breathable.

Oasis Multi Stripe Tube Midi Cheap Bodycon Dresses, $42.86, available at House of Fraser.