I tried on 13 Walmart dresses under $40 — if you're in your 40s or 50s, these styles are seriously good
As a mom of two in my late 40s, I'm usually in a hurry and laser-focused on my shopping list. But last week, while I was there replenishing the kids' school snacks supply, the clothing section caught my eye — and I had to make a pit stop to try on some of Walmart's affordable dresses for spring and summer 2025.
I tried on 13 Walmart dresses — all under $40 — that I'm thinking about buying. I was surprised by the quality, comfort and fuss-free nature of these maxis, shirt dresses and more, which makes them a great choice for everything from school drop offs to summer travel. Scroll down to see how these cute dresses look on a real-life 48-year-old mom who's always on the go.
I was first introduced to Mexx in 2003 when I lived in New York City, and have been a fan ever since. This 100 per cent cotton dress even has seam pockets. The fact that Walmart now carries one of my favourite brands is another reason to shop there — not that I really needed one.
$35 at Walmart
I love the black/tan colour combo of this draped calf-length dress. The gathered waistband helps give it shape, while the V-neck front and elastic sleeves provide a more tailored look. It's also available in a green and black colourway, but I wasn't as impressed with how it looked on.
$29 at Walmart
I like the tie belt that comes with this knee-length navy cotton poplin dress, but I might switch it out for a woven brown belt for a dressier look. It does wrinkle easily, so keep a steamer on hand when you're planning to wear it. I tried on a medium, as that was the smallest size they had in stock at that location, and it fit my smaller frame quite well.
$37 at Walmart
I'm totally devoted to this Devoted dress! It's super cute, hugs in all the right places and even has pockets. If I had to take one dress with me for a weekend away, this navy number would most definitely be it.
$35 at Walmart
The quality of this Mexx eyelet dress exceeded my expectations. I loved the look of the smocked bodice and puffed sleeves, and of course, the seam pockets perfected the look. I'm sold on the blue — but if that's not your colour, it also comes in red.
$40 at Walmart
The moment I put this dress on, I knew I had to have it. How cute would it look with some cowboy boots? I could also pair it with my favourite sandals for a fresh spring look.
$40 at Walmart
I'm not usually a big fan of stripes, but this T-shirt dress won me over. It's super soft and wrinkle-free, and is an easy on-the-go look I'll be living in once the temperature warms up.
$20 at Walmart
Oh, Mexx, you've done it again. This collared button-down dress is casual comfort at its finest. And, yes, it's another one with pockets! I'm wearing an extra small and it's a bit bagger than I'd like — so I'd pair it with a thick brown belt for a bit of added cinching.
$35 at Walmart
Everything about this cute and comfortable dress says "low maintenance mama." And for $20, I might as well get it in both colourways.
$20 at Walmart
The soft fabric of this 100 per cent cotton denim dress felt great on. It's super cute and falls mid calf, making it flattering regardless of how tall you are.
$29 at Walmart
I adore the lace bodice and adjustable spaghetti straps of this sexy summer dress. This true-to-size flowy dress is fun and flattering.
$35 at Walmart
Do you know what busy moms love? Low-maintenance A-line like this one! The thick straps and the smocked bodice provide a secure fit, while the frock's all-over print will also easily disguise stains from my five-year-old when he inevitably uses the dress to wipe his face on.
$30 at Walmart
This super cute sweatshirt dress will come in handy on chilly summer nights up north at the cottage. And come fall and winter, I can also wear it with tights and chunky boots on ski weekends with the kids. It runs large, and I am wearing an XS, so keep that in mind before you purchase.
$24 at Walmart
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