I wasn’t really looking for a crochet dress, but then I saw this one—covered in sequins, cobalt blue—and it stuck with me. It stayed in my head long enough that I ended up buying it.

When it arrived, I expected it to feel stiff or scratchy, but it didn’t. It was soft, easy to slip on, kind of a mix between a cover-up and a real dress. I wore it over a bikini to a weekend thing and ended up staying in it all day.

There’s something about sequin crochet dresses that just makes sense right now. They’re simple but not boring. A little bold without being loud. You put one on and don’t really need to add much else.

1. Sequin Crochet Mini Dress (Cobalt)

Sequin Crochet Mini Dress
Sequin Crochet Mini Dress
Milly
$385
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I came across this one while scrolling—long sleeves, tunic style, cobalt blue, fully covered in sequins. I clicked without thinking. It looked like it might be stiff, but it wasn’t. The crochet was soft, and it draped nicely.

I wore it to a friend’s pool party over a bikini. Everyone else had on linen or denim, but I felt fine. It’s not subtle, but it didn’t feel overdone either. Definitely more of a cover-up—it’s unlined and sheer—but the sequins give it something extra. I didn’t feel like I had to add anything to make it work. It just did.

2. Sequin Crochet Mini Sleeveless Dress (Multi)

Sequin Crochet Mini Sleeveless Dress
Sequin Crochet Mini Sleeveless Dress
Milly
$375
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Then there’s the sleeveless version—the mini in multicolor. Same paillette sequins, just in a tank shape and shorter. The mix of colors gives it this light, confetti kind of feel.

I wore this one to a low-key beach day and ended up staying in it through dinner. It’s not clingy, and the straps make it easier to wear when it’s really hot. This one feels a bit more casual than the cobalt version. Less structure, more movement. Still unlined, still see-through, but it feels different enough to want both.

3. Sequin Crochet Midi Dress (Pink/White)

Sequin Crochet Midi Dress
Sequin Crochet Midi Dress
Milly
$375 $262
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The third one I tried was the pink and white crochet midi dress. It has a v-neck, thin straps, and side slits. The length changes the energy—it’s still sequined, still bold, but quieter.

I wore it one evening when I didn’t want to put effort into anything. Just added slides and went out. It moves a little slower than the minis. Still pretty, still full of texture, but not trying to make a statement. I liked that about it.

How They Feel

Both dresses kind of changed how I think about getting dressed in the summer. I used to try hard to be “effortless.” Now I just want things that I actually like looking at. That’s what these are. You put one on and it’s like—okay, this is enough. No need for extras.

There’s no lining, so you’ll want something underneath unless you’re at the pool or the beach. The fabric feels airy, and the fit is relaxed. Not tight, not fussy. Just a layer you can throw on that looks more intentional than it probably is.

They’re not cheap. But they don’t feel trendy in a disposable way either. If you’re into bold fashion trends but also want pieces that don’t scream for attention all the time, this is somewhere in the middle.

Where to Wear Them

These are good for things that aren’t quite formal but also not “wear whatever.” I’ve taken mine to a vacation dinner, a late lunch downtown, and one very warm outdoor birthday party. They also pack really well. The crochet fabric with paillette sequins throughout doesn’t wrinkle much, which I didn’t expect.

If you’re thinking in outfits:

  • Sequin crochet dress + flat sandals + woven tote = perfect for day.
  • Add earrings and switch to heeled mules for night.
  • You could even wear the midi over a slip dress if you want more coverage.

These feel best when you don’t overthink them. They already do enough.

Final Thoughts

I didn’t expect to wear so many sequins this summer. But here we are. These summer statement dresses from Milly are kind of perfect if you’re tired of playing it safe.

If you’re into maximalist fashion, or even just curious, a Milly crochet dress is a good place to start. Especially if you want something that feels fun but not ridiculous.

They’re a bit much. In the best way.