14 Best Midi Dresses from Ethical Brands That Emphasize Sustainability

Written by Ankita Kandade, Certified Fashion Expert
Updated on Feb 19, 2024
Best Midi Dresses
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Considering the environmental impact and the increase in social issues, sustainable fashion has now become a topic of discussion – it’s all about making eco-friendly choices when it comes to fabric, manufacturing processes, packaging, and waste management. Today, we’re bringing you a list of the best midi dresses from brands that advocate fashion sustainability. Each of our recommendations will give you a chance to be an eco-conscious consumer while also making Mother Earth a better place. 

Based on our first-hand research, the dresses are ethically and mindfully tailored, ensuring no harm to human beings or animals during manufacturing practices. With one or a few casual summer midi dresses in your wardrobe, you can encompass things like recycling, thrifting, and upcycling. Let us also tell you that, midi dresses are renowned for their versatility and timelessness, lending you scope for sprucing up your fashion game effortlessly. 

Honestly, investing in such sustainable fashion pieces is about creating a supply chain that is socially and ecologically responsible. Right from fabrics that are derived from sustainably grown fiber crops to the usage of environment-friendly components, these dresses come in a wide range of colors and prints and are a good blend of style with comfort. So, without further ado, let’s kickstart a feel-good shopping spree!

14 Best Midi Dresses Featuring Playful And Sophisticated Silhouettes

Handwoven cotton dresses all together have a distinctive charm and this sayang dress from the Summer House is no exception. Featuring a one-shouldered pattern, practical flair, and a wide waistband, it is a pure love affair. The vertical strips compliment the zig-zag ones starting right from the waistline while the hem ends somewhere in the middle of your calves. What is worth noting? This summer midi dress is ethically made in India, by order, with zero waste production. From XS to XL, you can splurge on it in all sizes!

  • Most Comfortable

    Pact Relaxed Slub Henley Tank Dress

    Pact Relaxed Slub Henley Tank Dress
  • Made from 100% organic cotton, Pact’s Relaxed Slub Henley Tank Dress is an alluring midi summer dress featuring a V-neck henley design and a flattering empire waistline. On the front, it has plant-based corozo buttons that highlight the brand’s love for sustainable fashion. Moreover, the sleeveless and bra-friendly pattern makes this apparel look much more classy and cool. The hemline hits a little below the knees keeping you comfortable and breezy all day long. Bonus – the dress has hidden side pockets to help you easily store small belongings. 

  • Best for a Casual Look

    Kotn Women's Ballet Dress

    Kotn Women's Ballet Dress
  • High on style and comfort, the Kotn Women's Ballet Dress is the perfect choice to slip into when you have a dinner date or casual party planned. Brought to life from 100% Egyptian cotton, the lightweight midi dress is loved for three of its astounding elements – the fitted torso that draws attention to your waist, the thin straps to flaunt a not-so-bared shoulder look, and lastly, the drapey volume of the relaxed skirt lending you desirable flare. What’s more? The mid-length of the dress sits right at your knees or just a few centimeters below, ensuring zero restrictions when it comes to mobility. To add more oomph and emphasize sustainable fashion, you can think of throwing on a knitted overtop, a handwoven jacket, or even experimenting with other styles.

  • Most Flattering

    Quince 100% Washable Silk Twist Halter Midi Dress

    Quince 100% Washable Silk Twist Halter Midi Dress
  • Ace your date night look and show off your statement-making fashion sense with Quince’s Twist Halter Midi Dress tailored from washable silk fabric. Yes, you read it right! With sustainability in mind, it is made from 100% washable mulberry silk that is incredibly soft and smooth on the skin. Since it is extremely light in weight, the garment is one of those casual midi dresses for women that allows the skin to breathe some fresh air. What makes one gravitate towards the dress is its twisted halter neckline and midi-length skirt skims that make one's silhouette look flattering.

  • Best for Winter Season

    Highline Turtleneck Maxi Dress

    Highline Turtleneck Maxi Dress
  • If you want to make a lasting impression, this gorgeous Turtleneck Maxi Dress is one to reach for. Crafted from 44% recycled polyester, 30% organic cotton, 26% wool, and other recyclable materials, this full-sleeve dress is worth adding to your wardrobe of sustainable fits. It is neatly knitted and immensely appreciated for its ribbed cuffs and hem band. What’s impressive, the dress sits around your calves and has two side slits for added comfort and ease of mobility.

  • Best for a Sleek Look

    Fair Indigo Women's Sleeveless Midi Dress with Pockets

    Fair Indigo Women's Sleeveless Midi Dress with Pockets
  • This Sleeveless Midi Dress from Fair Indigo proves that sustainability can be as easy as putting on a dress. It is knitted from 100% cotton and earth-friendly, certified-safe dyes, and hence, it’s kinder not only to your skin but also to the planet. What makes it one of the best midi casual dresses for women? The round neck style, elasticated waistline, and two handy front pockets give you a naturally slimming and sleek look. Effortlessly associated with simplicity, this one is a sheer winner, despite the weather outside!

  • Best Relaxed Fit

    Everlane Linen Oversized Puff-sleeve Dress

    Everlane Linen Oversized Puff-sleeve Dress
  • Look stunningly chic and relaxed in the Linen Oversized Puff-sleeve Dress featuring a chequered monochrome style, V-neckline, and gathered shoulders. What we love the most is the fact that this dress is tailored from 100% European Flax fabric renowned as linen that is very skin-friendly and of course, kind to Mother Earth. Talking about its craftsmanship; it is phenomenal in all senses. The piece has an oversized fit and hence is said to be the perfect dress to slip into when you have a long day ahead.

  • Best Printed Midi Dress

    Sezane Nilla Dress

    Sezane Nilla Dress
  • Flower-power personified! The Sezane Nilla Dress is a two-toned pink floral beauty that will help you elevate your causal style by several notches, effortlessly. Made from 100% viscose and lined with 100% organic cotton, this dress is crafted in India. The V-neckline gathers on the shoulders, and the long sleeves with cuffs show that you are rooting for what’s in and utterly modish. All in all, the flavor of Summer that this casual flowy midi dress holds is something that will keep you swooning over it time and time again!

  • Best Craftsmanship

    The Reformation Kallie Dress

     The Reformation Kallie Dress
  • To make a bodacious statement with that airy feeling, you need to splurge on The Reformation’s Kallie Dress – it features an enchanting sweetheart neckline. It is designed from light georgette fabric keeping in mind the needs of a true fashionista, with no trace of discomfort. Having said that, the apparel is fitted at the bodice and comes with an attached A-line skirt. Diving into the details, the smocking at the back, broad adjustable straps, and the blooming bliss in the name of the floral print will get you all obsessed right at the first wear!

  • Softest Fabric

    Jungmaven Hermosa Dress

    Jungmaven Hermosa Dress
  • Okay, let us get straight to the point, the Hermosa Dress has no less of an unarguable vote, especially when it is Summer. Through its soft, breezy, weightless hemp blend of fabric and relaxed fit, comfort is evidently visible and felt. Furthermore, the tank sleeve dress features slit side seams and a classic muscle tee silhouette that helps you make the most easy-peasy head-turning statement. Available in a variety of sizes and solid colors, the dress is made to suit all of your needs and preferences.

  • Boody Racerback Dress

    Boody Racerback Dress
  • Express your personality in style by slipping into Boody’s universally flattering Racerback Dress. It hugs you in the right places and feels extremely soft on the skin. All credit goes to the splendid composition of the brand’s signature bamboo and organic cotton that promises to offer you ultimate comfort while staying committed to sustainability. Secondly, we adore the slim fit and side slits of the dress that indeed make it a highly versatile wardrobe staple. With this midi casual dress on, you can run errands, attend informal meetings, and lounge around your house leisurely.

  • Magic Linen Flowy Midi Linen Dress

    Magic Linen Flowy Midi Linen Dress
  • Magic Linen’s Flowy Midi Linen Dress is a true testament to style and comfort – it is all you need to beat the heat in the most fashionable way. The bright yellow color and minimalistic craftsmanship are what will make you channel a summery vibe seamlessly. The adjustable straps, rounded neckline, and mid-length make it a go-to piece for a beach day, city walk, cozy afternoon, or casual office look. What bowled us over? The relaxed fit and gathered waistline allow one to cast a trapeze silhouette while staying committed to all things sustainable.

  • Toad & Co Dandelion Midi Dress

    Toad & Co Dandelion Midi Dress
  • Get to the peak of elegance and timelessness with this Dandelion Midi Dress made from breathable, eco-friendly organic cotton and Tencel Lyocell slub. We found that it offers you a bit of stretch for added comfort and comes with an inherent odor-control ability. Talking more about this casual summer midi dress, the beauty lies in its straight fit, adjustable shoulder ties, square neckline, and ruffle hem. What’s impressive? It comes with on-seam hand pockets that every woman needs! 

  • Haverdash Wildflower Midi Dress

    Haverdash Wildflower Midi Dress
  • The Haverdash Wildflower Midi Dress has a playful and bodacious allure. The cutout detail at the sides and in the back along with the ruffled trim and bodice make an eye-catching statement. Not to forget, the multi-colored all-over floral print and adjustable shoulder straps make you look stunning and dressy no matter what occasion is it. Topping it all off, the airy aesthetic and feminine touch of the dress make it a jaw-dropping fashion piece that is not only voguish but also worth promoting for its sustainable properties.

     That was our comprehensive list of the best casual midi dresses. Now, let us run you through a detailed buying guide.

    How to Choose the Best Midi Dress?

    Here are a few aspects that you should consider before splurging on one of the most comfortable midi dresses: 

    Fabric: Ensure that you analyze the fabric of the dress thoroughly. Invest in dresses tailored from fabrics that are sourced from sustainably grown fiber crops or recycled materials. Organic cotton, linen, bamboo, hemp, wool, and lyocell are a few of the fabrics that are softer on the skin and eco-friendly in nature. 

    Size: Pay heed to the size chart and your body measurements. Opt for the best midi dress that is not only comfortable but also allows your skin to breathe without restricting your mobility. Refrain from purchasing dresses that are too tight or loose as it might hamper the overall look of the dress and make you feel uncomfortable and embarrassed at times.

    Design: Next, get a glimpse of the overall design of the dress. Inspect its neckline, waistline, length, and type of shoulder straps or sleeves. The design and dress selection solely depends on your needs, style, and preferences. 

    Craftsmanship: Moving on to the next, go through the overall craftsmanship of the dress. Check the sewing of the dress, the inseams, zippers, and closure type for easy wear on and off. 

    Conclusion

    Name any event and time – the best midi dresses in your wardrobe will have you ready for them in minutes. They are versatile and work well across all seasons. Furthermore, the world is becoming more eco-conscious and just one step towards investing in such sustainable clothing can likely make it a better place to live in. The brands that we enlisted above have ethically tailored the dresses using environmentally friendly elements, right from fabric and buttons, to packaging. The Pact Relaxed Slub Henley Tank Dress is one of our favorites since it advocates sustainability in a beautiful manner. You can also choose from the rest of our recommendations and revolutionize your fashion statements in an eco-friendly way. Happy shopping! 

    FAQ's

    Which is the most flattering midi dress length?
    The most flattering midi dress length is the one that is a little over your knees. We suggest that you take a look at the Jungmaven Hermosa Dress.
    Why do I look frumpy in a midi dress?
    You can look frumpy if you wear a long dress or skirt that ends halfway down your leg. For a more flattering look, you can opt for a cinched-in waist.
    Do midi dresses make you look taller or shorter?
    Midi Dresses make you appear taller.
    What body type is a midi dress for?
    Midi dresses are ultra-versatile and hence, suit all body types.
    Why are midi dresses so popular?
    Midi dresses are so popular because they offer a comfortable and flattering fit.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our certified fashion expert, Ankita, has meticulously researched the best midi dresses from brands that are committed to all things sustainable. She believes that a midi dress is a highly versatile piece of apparel that one can dress up or down depending on the occasion. Plus, while investing in a sustainable garment, one can encompass practices like recycling, upcycling, and thrifting. Personally, she is quite impressed with The Summer House Sayang - Dress which is ethically made in India with zero waste production. You too can roll your eyes over the rest of her top picks and advocate sustainable fashion. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Ankita Kandade
    Certified Fashion Expert

    Ankita is a budding journalist and a certified fashion expert. If the Fashion police were an official organization, A More