We Tried 7 Walmart Dresses That Look Like They Cost a Fortune, Here’s How We Styled Them

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Walmart has really been stepping up their fashion game. The days of grabbing a dress there “just because it was cheap” are gone; now you can find pieces that make people say, “Wait… that’s from where?”

My daughter-in-law Stephanie and I decided to put this to the test. She’s 5’3″ and usually wears an XS or S, and I’m 5’6″ and usually wear a M or L. Between us, we tried on seven dresses from Walmart, mixed in accessories from other brands (because I like blending my price points), and styled each one to show just how versatile they can be.

We didn’t just want to wear the dresses. We wanted to see if they could look boutique-worthy, feel comfortable, and work for real life, from church to dinner out to a casual Saturday.

Here’s what we found…

The Walmart Dresses That Stephanie Chose

A Budget-Friendly Midi Dress That Looks Designer

Stephanie started with a Sweater Dress that has just enough edge to make it interesting, but still easy to wear. The fit skims her frame without being clingy, and the above-the-knee length works surprisingly well on her petite height. The Slingback Kitten Heels keep it polished without feeling too dressy.

Stephanie’s Tip: “If you’re petite, sometimes dresses can make you feel shorter. A small heel adds just enough lift, and a shoe with an open back (like a slingback) keeps the leg line looking longer.”

The Crisp Shirt Dress That Works for Work or Weekends

There’s something about a crisp shirt dress that just feels put together, even if you’ve been running errands all morning. This one from Time and Tru has a self-tie belt that lets you adjust the waist, and the poplin fabric gives it a little structure. Stephanie wore it with Espadrille Wedges for a summer-to-fall look.

Stephanie’s Tip: “Tie the belt slightly above your natural waist if you want your legs to look longer. It’s a little styling trick I use all the time.”

How to Elevate a Simple Column Dress with One Accessory

Column dresses are like the blank page of fashion; you can make them into whatever you want. The fit on this one is simple and straight, and Stephanie added a Printed Square Scarf to break up the solid color and draw attention upward.

Stephanie’s Tip: “If you’re not sure how to style a simple dress, start with accessories. A scarf, a necklace, or even a belt can change the whole vibe.”

The Sleeveless Midi That Layers Perfectly for Fall

This Sleeveless Midi Dress is one you can wear on its own when it’s hot or layer under a denim jacket when it cools down. The fabric drapes nicely and doesn’t cling, and the length hits just right on Stephanie.

Stephanie’s Tip: “I like to add a long pendant necklace to sleeveless dresses. It keeps the eye moving and helps balance the look.”

Tania’s Walmart Dresses Picks

A Resort-Ready Maxi You Can Style Two Ways

If I could pack just one dress for a beach vacation, this Maxi Dress might be it. The double-ruffle neckline can be worn on or off the shoulder, and the flowy skirt moves beautifully when you walk. I paired it with a statement necklace, a Python Leather Belt, and Slingback Pumps for a more dressed-up look.

Tania’s Tip: “Necklines you can wear two ways give you more mileage out of your clothes, and they make a dress feel fresh each time you wear it.”

The Pintuck Mini That Feels Age-Appropriate Over 50

Now, I know “mini dress” can sound scary if you’re over 50, but hear me out. This one has a modest hemline on me, and with Knee High Boots, it doesn’t feel short at all. The pintuck detailing gives it a little structure, and the tiered skirt keeps it feminine.

Tania’s Tip: “When I wear a shorter dress, I like to add tall boots. It keeps the look balanced and helps me feel more covered.”

The Bias-Cut Midi That Flatters Every Curve

Bias-cut dresses are a secret weapon; they drape in a way that flatters curves without clinging in the wrong places. This one has that easy, slip-dress feel, but in a more wearable midi length. I kept the accessories simple: a Handwoven clutch for texture and neutral Pointed Toe Slingbacks for polish.

Tania’s Tip: “If you’ve avoided slip-style dresses because you thought they’d be clingy, try a bias cut. It moves with you and is much more forgiving.”

Your Turn

Stephanie and I had such a good time styling these dresses, and honestly, a few of them surprised me with how expensive they look. Now I’m curious, which one would you wear, and why? Do you go for flowy maxis, crisp shirt dresses, or something in between? Tell me in the comments, I love hearing from you!

Be sure to also check out my Five Fabulous Walmart Finds That Prove Style Is Not About the Price Tag blog post for more great Walmart fashions.

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Verse Of The Day

Isaiah 60:1 (NIV)
¹“Arise, shine, for your light has come,
    and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.