Finally, we’re back at school! While that technically means we’re back to thesis papers, math problem sets, and group projects, it also means collegiettes are back on campus and hitting the town! Yet every night, even with a closet full of clothing, there’s just nothing to wear. But have no fear, Her Campus completely understands your pain—and we sympathize with you! That’s why we’ve scoped out the hottest, hippest, and overall chicest going-out dresses for every collegiette, no matter your budget. From peplum to bodycon, here are our 20 favorite dresses for you to rock this semester.
Under $30
Jungle Fever
There’s no denying a little animal print here and there (or everywhere). If you’ve got jungle fever (not to be confused with Bieber fever), then this dress is right up your alley—or tree trunk? The long sleeves make it perfect for chilly fall nights, but the growl-tastic pattern gives it that extra sassy-safari feel.
Forever 21, $15.80
Perfect Pintucks
Are you a collegiette on a budget? Say no more, this dress is screaming your name. Not only is navy blue a killer color on almost everyone, but also this bodycon features wavy pintucks that guarantee a little extra coverage to make you look flawless.
Forever 21, $19.80
Under $40
Pretty in Hot Pink
Seeking chic comfort? We’ve got you covered. This cotton circle dress is that essential piece that you can throw on and walk out the door looking (and feeling) like a superstar.
Urban Outfitters, $32
Turquoise & Trendy
Keep everyone guessing with this t-shirt dress. Is it two pieces? A skirt and a shirt? It’ll be your little secret that this killer look is all one piece. Simple, casual, and totally fabulous. Bonus: it’s on sale. Cha-Ching!
Bloomingdale’s, $38.25
Midas Touch
Looking to sparkle without the obnoxious glitter? Here’s the dress for you. With a touch of gold, you’ll be shining all night while flaunting everything you’ve got.
Forever 21, $32.80
Growl Power
Rawr! Show off your wild side in this luscious leopard print dress. Besides the femme fatale design, this dress is made out of stretch fabric, the perfect choice for any body-conscious collegiette.
Asos, $34.49
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Under $50
THE LBD
Let’s be honest here: no closet is complete without a little black dress. But why spend so much on something that’s so simple? American Apparel offers that classic LBD you’ve been looking for without breaking the bank.
American Apparel, $40
Wear Your Heart on Your… Back?
Fall in love with this dress then show it off with the cutest cutout around. With a sweetheart neckline and heart in the back, you’ll be showing the world just how loveable you really are.
Urban Outfitters, $49
Under $75
Orange You Glad?
If you’re more comfortable with your lower half than your top, then here’s your new best friend. Because it’s loose up top, but form-fitting on the bottom, you can easily show off your legs. Not to mention, it’s perfect for any occasion—dress up or dress it down, it’s your choice!
Shopbop, $54
High, Low, Here We Go
Seeking something outside your comfort zone? Then here’s the dress for you. Experiment with the new high/low length that’s hitting the fashion world like crazy, but also add in a few teasing cutouts. This dress is a fashion-forward overdose that cannot be resisted.
Asos, $62.09
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Under $100
Playful Peplum
There’s no hiding from the irresistible idea of peplum. Almost every celebrity has one hanging in her closet, and you should too. It adds that extra pop to any classic dress.
Bloomingdale’s, $88
Sexy Serpent
Want to show off your fierce side? There’s no denying this snakeskin printed dress. Slither and slide through the club, catching the eye of everyone you pass.
Bloomingdale’s, $88
Under $125
Show Me Your Back
Show off a little skin! This dress flaunts your sexy back, while also giving you a little flair. Throw on a fun statement necklace, and you’re ready to roll.
Free People, $108
Lace In Your Wild Side
Lace and animal print? Surprisingly, it works! Rein in your wild side with a touch a girly chic. Just like Miley, “you get the best of both worlds.”
Asos, $112.10
Shocking in Sequins
You just have to love sequins. While it may not be an every night kind of dress, it’s the perfect outfit for that special occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, New Year’s, or a night you just want to sparkle, this sequin dress is right up your alley.
Her Campus Store on StyleOwner, $119
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Under $150
Pocket Full of Daises
This dress is the perfect fit and flare—it flatters exactly the right places. But on top of all that, it adds a fun and flirty touch with a daisy chain cutout around the waist.
Free People, $128
Light and Lacy
This may look like your average mini dress, but trust us, it’s far better. With lace overlay, this dress goes from just average to glam.
Her Campus Store on StyleOwner, $132
Tribal Chic
If you haven’t heard the buzz yet, tribal is the ‘in’ print. But this dress not only stays in line with the tribal color scheme, it also sparks it up a notch with its beading.
Saks Fifth Avenue, $140.80
SPLURGE!
Purple Man Eater
Not only does this dress perfectly incorporate sequins and color, but there’s also a deep-V plunging back. It’s just full of surprises.
Her Campus Store on Styleowner, $165
Mauvelous
Spice up your life with this tassel mini dress—it’s absolutely mauvelous. With a drop waist, it’s the perfect dress to throw on when you’re not feeling that super tight bodycon. But, it still flatters your body and gives a great shape to flaunt.
Her Campus Store on StyleOwner, $286