Warm weather means spending more time outdoors and less time fussing with what to wear. So why not celebrate summer's official arrival this week with a dress - or four?

Long maxi dresses, as well as variations on full-length kaftan and kimono-style dresses are prominent in the collections of designers such as Issa, Pink Tartan, Rag & Bone, Matthew Williamson, Emilio Pucci, Roberto Cavalli and others.

"The return of the maxi dress is significant. Styles with ethnic and mini floral prints are especially important and enhance the season's retro seventies vibe," says Tamar Matossian, a spokesperson for Lundstrom Collection.

The summer dress.  It’s the ultimate seasonal fashion staple that will live on in perpetuity.

Cotton Candy has chosen some of the sexiest, most classic, bright hued dresses from Kate Spade New York.

If you’re looking to usher in the essence of summer, embrace these bold patterns and vibrant colors.

(Dolls, click on the photos below.