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
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CNN
an hour ago
- CNN
‘Haute Couture' facials and re-energizing mattresses: Inside Dior's first permanent spa in the US
After years of renovations, Dior has re-opened the doors to its flagship store in New York City. And unlike its other global boutiques, this one houses its first permanent spa. Located on the corner of East 57th Street and Madison Avenue, Dior's revamped space is designed by architect Peter Marino, a longtime collaborator of the French luxury house. And, spanning an expansive four floors, it showcases the brand's womenswear, menswear, fine jewelry and more. The re-opening comes amid a continued luxury downturn where brands have been looking to US shoppers to spur growth, with some (including Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana) opening stores or signing new leases across the country. In 2024, Dior's owner LVMH (which does not break out sales by brand) brought in €84.7 billion (about $98 billion) in revenue — 25% of which was derived from America, its second largest market alongside Europe, and after Asia. Dior's new spa, which sits on the top floor of the New York boutique, offers experiences exclusive to the store, such as a 90-minute, customizable 'Haute Couture' facial developed by the brand's master aesthetician Sarah Akram: a tailored blend of treatments for the face — including LED, microcurrent, cryotherapy and oxygen infusion — based on an assessment of the hydration, elasticity, collagen and pH levels of a customer's skin. Another feature of the spa is the 'Light Suite,' where customers can choose from four light therapy skin treatments that have been developed in collaboration with Dr. François Duforez, a medical sleep specialist and the founder of the European Sleep Center in Paris. The latest light therapy treatment, 'Happiness,' is aimed at stimulating serotonin and dopamine, which helps to balance mood and improve sleep — a nod to the perception of New York as 'the city that never sleeps,' according to Dior. Dior's wellness offering — which also boasts infrared and re-energizing mattresses, weighted blankets and cryo-sleep masks, as well as a custom fragrance developed by renowned French perfumer Francis Kurkdjian — is a first in luxury where few other competitors operate their own spa. It comes amid the increased convergence of the luxury and wellness sectors, as affluent shoppers prioritize holistic health alongside opulent experiences. Now, fragrance labels such as Bella Hadid's Orebella and Vyrao sell scents they claim can improve mood and focus, while high-end brands like Celine and Hermès have created yoga mats and other workout equipment, respectively. 'The spa targets the top of the pyramid: It's as luxurious as it gets, because it requires time and commitment from the customer' Thomai Serdari, Luxury and Retail MBA director at the NYU Stern School of Business For many people, good health is a precious asset — one that has arguably become more valuable than material possessions. With that in mind, the rise of wellness in luxury spaces 'is no different from offering food and beverage within a flagship store,' observed Thomai Serdari, Luxury and Retail MBA director at the NYU Stern School of Business. In recent years, luxury labels including Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Prada and Louis Vuitton have delved into the culinary world, setting up cafes, restaurants and pastry shops globally. Already, Dior operates nine spas globally, including those at five-star hotels such as Cheval Blanc and Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris. The brand has also invested in several immersive wellness experiences and retreats, including its two-time takeover of a luxury yacht (which it transformed into a floating spa on the Seine River) and collaboration with the Royal Scotsman, a high-end train operator in the UK. The difference between those examples, according to Serdari, is the customers it reaches. 'A beautiful pop-up targets the bottom of the pyramid, because it amplifies the power of the brand for the masses,' she explained. 'Whereas the spa targets the top: It's as luxurious as it gets, because it requires time and commitment from the customer.' Dior's expansion into wellbeing aligns with its broader mission to get people to 'live' the brand in multiple ways beyond simply wearing its clothes: see its flashy 10,000 square-meter (107,600 square feet) flagship in Paris, which opened in 2022 after more than two years of renovations, that houses a gallery space, two eateries (Le Restaurant Monsieur Dior and Pâtisserie Dior) led by prominent French chef Jean Imbert, multiple gardens, a VIP client suite, and more. Describing luxury flagships as 'a domain of services,' Serdari noted that the biggest brands are 'trying to figure out which type of services are most pertinent for their VIC (very important customers),' especially as a growing number opens dedicated spaces for their highest spending ones. For example, Chanel been opening private boutiques for its top clients, starting in key Asian cities. Balenciaga has a dedicated Haute Couture store in Paris. And last year, Bottega Veneta announced the launch of VIC residences, the first which opened in Venice and will gradually be rolled out across Asia and the US. The convergence then of luxury and wellness initiatives is 'an expansion of all the work that has been done in the VIC field,' said Serdari. 'Every luxury brand now has a VIC establishment. Brands are providing an intimate environment with their clients, and they also understand what they would enjoy.'
CNN
2 hours ago
- CNN
‘Haute Couture' facials and re-energizing mattresses: Inside Dior's first permanent spa in the US
After years of renovations, Dior has re-opened the doors to its flagship store in New York City. And unlike its other global boutiques, this one houses its first permanent spa. Located on the corner of East 57th Street and Madison Avenue, Dior's revamped space is designed by architect Peter Marino, a longtime collaborator of the French luxury house. And, spanning an expansive four floors, it showcases the brand's womenswear, menswear, fine jewelry and more. The re-opening comes amid a continued luxury downturn where brands have been looking to US shoppers to spur growth, with some (including Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana) opening stores or signing new leases across the country. In 2024, Dior's owner LVMH (which does not break out sales by brand) brought in €84.7 billion (about $98 billion) in revenue — 25% of which was derived from America, its second largest market alongside Europe, and after Asia. Dior's new spa, which sits on the top floor of the New York boutique, offers experiences exclusive to the store, such as a 90-minute, customizable 'Haute Couture' facial developed by the brand's master aesthetician Sarah Akram: a tailored blend of treatments for the face — including LED, microcurrent, cryotherapy and oxygen infusion — based on an assessment of the hydration, elasticity, collagen and pH levels of a customer's skin. Another feature of the spa is the 'Light Suite,' where customers can choose from four light therapy skin treatments that have been developed in collaboration with Dr. François Duforez, a medical sleep specialist and the founder of the European Sleep Center in Paris. The latest light therapy treatment, 'Happiness,' is aimed at stimulating serotonin and dopamine, which helps to balance mood and improve sleep — a nod to the perception of New York as 'the city that never sleeps,' according to Dior. Dior's wellness offering — which also boasts infrared and re-energizing mattresses, weighted blankets and cryo-sleep masks, as well as a custom fragrance developed by renowned French perfumer Francis Kurkdjian — is a first in luxury where few other competitors operate their own spa. It comes amid the increased convergence of the luxury and wellness sectors, as affluent shoppers prioritize holistic health alongside opulent experiences. Now, fragrance labels such as Bella Hadid's Orebella and Vyrao sell scents they claim can improve mood and focus, while high-end brands like Celine and Hermès have created yoga mats and other workout equipment, respectively. 'The spa targets the top of the pyramid: It's as luxurious as it gets, because it requires time and commitment from the customer' Thomai Serdari, Luxury and Retail MBA director at the NYU Stern School of Business For many people, good health is a precious asset — one that has arguably become more valuable than material possessions. With that in mind, the rise of wellness in luxury spaces 'is no different from offering food and beverage within a flagship store,' observed Thomai Serdari, Luxury and Retail MBA director at the NYU Stern School of Business. In recent years, luxury labels including Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Prada and Louis Vuitton have delved into the culinary world, setting up cafes, restaurants and pastry shops globally. Already, Dior operates nine spas globally, including those at five-star hotels such as Cheval Blanc and Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris. The brand has also invested in several immersive wellness experiences and retreats, including its two-time takeover of a luxury yacht (which it transformed into a floating spa on the Seine River) and collaboration with the Royal Scotsman, a high-end train operator in the UK. The difference between those examples, according to Serdari, is the customers it reaches. 'A beautiful pop-up targets the bottom of the pyramid, because it amplifies the power of the brand for the masses,' she explained. 'Whereas the spa targets the top: It's as luxurious as it gets, because it requires time and commitment from the customer.' Dior's expansion into wellbeing aligns with its broader mission to get people to 'live' the brand in multiple ways beyond simply wearing its clothes: see its flashy 10,000 square-meter (107,600 square feet) flagship in Paris, which opened in 2022 after more than two years of renovations, that houses a gallery space, two eateries (Le Restaurant Monsieur Dior and Pâtisserie Dior) led by prominent French chef Jean Imbert, multiple gardens, a VIP client suite, and more. Describing luxury flagships as 'a domain of services,' Serdari noted that the biggest brands are 'trying to figure out which type of services are most pertinent for their VIC (very important customers),' especially as a growing number opens dedicated spaces for their highest spending ones. For example, Chanel been opening private boutiques for its top clients, starting in key Asian cities. Balenciaga has a dedicated Haute Couture store in Paris. And last year, Bottega Veneta announced the launch of VIC residences, the first which opened in Venice and will gradually be rolled out across Asia and the US. The convergence then of luxury and wellness initiatives is 'an expansion of all the work that has been done in the VIC field,' said Serdari. 'Every luxury brand now has a VIC establishment. Brands are providing an intimate environment with their clients, and they also understand what they would enjoy.'
Yahoo
6 hours ago
- Yahoo
Livvy Dunne strikes out trying to buy former apartment of MLB Legend
Livvy Dunne strikes out trying to buy former apartment of MLB Legend originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Livvy Dunne might be an NIL trailblazer turned social media influencer, but not everyone appreciates her fast-paced lifestyle. The former LSU gymnast was recently shut out from buying a well-known New York City property. She said the residents may not want a public figure living in the building. She's not alone in her pursuit of a great view of the Big Apple. But the property in question is a no-go for Dunne. The unit at 345 W. 88th St belonged to MLB legend Babe Ruth during his time with the New York Yankees. The three bedrooms, two and a half bath floor plan features oak floors with the current owners reportedly having outgrown the space, according to reporter Khristopher J. Brooks. "Own a piece of New York City sports history in this expansive three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom co-op once owned by the Yankees' Sultan of Swat," said a listing description for the property. For $1.59 million, it's "Currently configured with two bedrooms, this residence offers a wealth of storage, handsome built-ins, and an exceptionally spacious layout that can easily accommodate the addition of a third bedroom" Dunne became the latest person to get rejected from buying a co-op unit in NYC. She joins a growing list who want to keep well-known figures out. According to Brooks, Antonio Banderas, Madonna, Richard Nixon, Mariah Carey, Calvin Klein and others are at the top of the list. But why? "Co-op boards in New York City are a breed of their own," real estate agent Kirsten Jordan told Brooks. "Trust me, even if you have a rock-solid bank account, they can still say 'thanks, but no thanks' for reasons you'd never expect." Dunne was heartbroken to find out her dream pad was unavailable after she tried to pay with an all cash offer. After leaving LSU the top NIL earner picked up a longtime gig as a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model. She performed at this year's show in Miami, busting out the splits on the catwalk in an instant viral moment."Then the week that I'm supposed to get my keys to my brand-new apartment, I get a call," Dunne said in a social media video posted July 8. "The co-op board denied me. So, pretty much, the people in the building voted to not have me live there." For now, Dunne is still in search of her ultimate NYC pad. This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 3, 2025, where it first appeared.
