We’ve all been there. You’re running to work in the sweltering heat, balancing a work tote in one hand, a cup of coffee in the other, and attempting to hold your phone between your head and shoulder to take a call. What do you need? a pocket, duh.
Women’s fashion trends have changed dramatically over the years, but some contentious looks have stuck in our memories for ages; from the bra-burning of the 1960s to Hillary Clinton’s pantsuits and Kim Kardashian’s latest red-carpet corset controversy. When it comes to how we dress, everyone has something to say. But, few of us pay much attention to the political prowess of something as simple as a pocket.
For centuries, female clothing has lacked a utility that we all desire. Ages ago, designers may have written pockets out of women’s clothing for their perception that women didn’t need them. The case of the non-existent pocket was closely tied to our lack of political and economic rights, the assumption that women would not use space to stow their things, since there were few reasons for them to leave the home in the first place. Even more terrifying, a practical pocket may just add an inch or two to our perfectly petite frames (how dare they!).
Despite advances in women’s rights and the role of women in the workforce, the pocket problem has made little progress. A 2018 study on The Pudding revealed that women’s pockets are 48% shorter and 65% narrower than men’s pockets. Even more offensive, are the cases of fake pockets — women’s garments that are merely ‘decorated’ with the illusion of a pocket, a rectangular patch that doesn’t even open.
While functional styles are certainly harder to come by, some brands make a conscious effort to include pockets: Reformation, Hill House, and Anthropologie, to name just a few. In opposition to the plight of the pockets, the Post Wanted team has rounded up some of our favorite pocketed dresses for women; ma›xi, mini, and everything in between. We’ve selected a range of styles for every occasion — from wo›rkdays to weddings, and the gym to the couch.
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Sizing: XXS -XXL
“Hill House’s Elizabeth Nap Dress is the perfect summer dress, in my opinion,” said Angela Tricarcio, Commerce Writer at Decider. “It’s a great mini length, the cotton fabric is so light and breezy, and, of course, it has pockets!
Tricarcio opted for this style because of its versatility. “It’s easy to dress nap dresses up or down, so whether you’re throwing it on for a casual vacation or wearing it for a night out, you can always count on this dress to be a versatile closet staple,” she explained.
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Sizing: XS – XXXL
“After my Instagram algorithm began feeding me Tuckernuck styles, I’ve recently become obsessed with the classic designs and quality pieces from the brand,” shared Meaghan Roche, Sr. Manager of SEO. “My first purchase was this preppy polo dress, complete with pockets, that I just adore for all summer activities.”
Roche noted that this piece can be styled for various occasions: “Last summer I wore this to the US Open, to work, and to dinner and I can’t wait to wear it again this season. The contrasting color details really make this dress stand out, and I always get a ton of compliments. The pockets make it so versatile but also help achieve the casual, athleisure style of this dress.”
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Sizing: XS – 4X
“We all know Target is great for all kinds of shopping. Seriously I can (and have) spent hours there, but don’t sleep on their cute dresses!” exclaimed Roche. “This season Target has tons of dresses in all different styles — with pockets!!”
The Mini Poplin Dress is one of many that caught her eye. “I love that this flutter sleeve dress conceals the pockets well so as not to add any bulk to your silhouette. The cotton poplin fabric keeps me feeling cool and comfortable, whether wearing this dress to the office or out to dinner, and the pockets make it functional and fun.”
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Sizing: XXS – 5X
“I’d get so many compliments on this dress and I would always respond to people, ‘And it has pockets too!'” said Sophie Cannon, New York Post Associate Manager of Commerce Strategy & Development. “This Maxi really is the epitome of form and function. The fabric is butter-smooth and the loose-fitting cut makes this dress an absolute dream to move around in. I love the range of colors and styles available as well — you can find one that really speaks to your style.”
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Sizing: XS – XXL
“I don’t wear dresses often, but one I had for a short time that I really loved was by ML Monique Lhuillier Sunshine Day Gown,” shared Holly Coley, New York Post Updates Editor. “I scored it off Rent The Runway and wore it to a wedding. I loved it not only because of its bright color but the thick material and pockets!
Coley pointed out that this option from Revolve costs a fraction of a similar luxury style. “The Madella Midi Dress from Faithful The Brand is a more affordable dupe. Same bright color and deep pockets but a lot less. It’s also made with organic cotton, so it’s good for those with sensitive skin, plus it is lightweight.”
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Sizing: 0-12
The simple, timeless, elegance of a long white dress never disappoints, and this summer staple from Reformation has everything we love; a scoop neckline, back smoking, adjustable straps, and two side pockets that hit right at the hips.
Shop for more white dresses for women.
Customers are saying: No reviews available
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Sizing: S-XXL
Amazon shoppers agree: this dress fits like a dream. The maxi length hits right between the calf and ankles, for a stunning elongating effect, and the stretchy top falls into a non-clingy skirt to keep you cool in the summer heat. You’ll hardly notice the side pocket slits at the side.
Customers are saying: “I struggle to find petite clothes that fit and this dress was such a pleasant surprise. It hits at my ankles but I can still wear flats. So comfortable and even has pockets. It washed beautifully and I’m sure it could go in the dryer but I just hung it to dry.”
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Sizing: S – XXL
Cocktail hour? This cap sleeve pencil dress from Amazon won’t break the budget, and shoppers can’t stop talking about how the slightly fitted cut smoothes and shows off their curves. Some love it so much they plan to buy it every color — from rose red to lake green and everything in between.
Customers are saying: “I bought this for a wedding not sure it would be dressy enough and was pleasantly surprised when I received it… the fit was perfect and it can be dressed up or dressed down and it had pockets! A lot of dresses that have pockets sometimes can be a little bulky in the hips and this was not at all.”
Shop for more dresses on Amazon.
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Sizing: 00 – 18
This creamy silhouette flows easily and can be accessorized with just about everything. The fitted bust, straight through the hips, and slightly flared skirt move easily, making it a great option for walking or work.
Customers are saying: “This classic dress is both fashionable and comfortable. It has pretty pintuck details and a flared skirt suitable for different body types. I love that it is machine washable, a huge plus! Oh, and it has pockets!”
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Sizing: 00 – 18
Ralph Lauren exudes all the style and class we desire with this buttoned placket striped dress. The point collar and modest sleeves give this piece a more elevated look, equally suited for beach days or meetings at the office. Side on-seam pockets don’t detract from the classic cut, but add just the right amount of space for resting hands comfortably.
Customers are saying: “Loved this linen midi dress in blue plaid. My summer go everywhere. This year so happy it is back and with pockets.”
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Sizing: XS – S
Since western wear is trending, we couldn’t help but throw in a striking belted denim shirtdress. You’ll find two chest button-flap patch pockets that provide just enough space for cards, keys, and other small things.
Customers are saying: “This dress fits light a glove! The arms were long so I turned over to creat a cuff. Love it! The perfect Jean dress and great price!”
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Sizing: 4- 16
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Get ready for your garden party with this charming, ruffled-sleeve floral dress. The slightly flared skirt adds just a touch of shape and the plentiful side-seam pockets make this mini the perfect combination of functional and flirty.
Customers are saying: “I love this dress. It fits true to size. Very flattering. Comfortable because of the elastic around the waist. A good length. Not too short and not too long. Beautiful vibrant color.”
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Sizing: XS – XL
Cargo is having a moment, and this style beats all others when it comes to pockets. You’ll find them placed generously along the top and bottom of this one-of-a-kind woven tube dress. Don’t plan on finding something like this anywhere else.
Customers are saying: “This dress is super cute on! A must-have! I decided to purchase up. I am a Medium (size 8-10) but based on reviews, I decided to purchase an XL and have it altered if needed. It actually fitted perfectly! The top is a little big but doesn’t require altering.”
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Sizing: XS – XXL
It’s about time to ring in picnic season. For something more feminine, we suggest this stunner by State. The puff sleeves, banded waist, and rosey pink and white checkers give this mini dress a youthful flair.
Customers are saying: No reviews available
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Sizing: XXS – XXL
Put a flirty spin on it with this Topspin Dress by Vuori. This slim-fitting athletic dress is designed with elastane, sporty and sleek, and perfect for occasions requiring some more movement.
Customers are saying: “Love this dress! The fabric is soft and the material is of great quality. I love the length and this is perfect for daily wear. Will definitely purchase in another color.”
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Sizing: 1 – 15
For more glamorous occasions, we suggest the satin gown from Windsor. This sleeveless, cowl-neck item comes in a sea of elegant shades. The form-fitting bodice, back-zip closure, and adjustable straps provide a near-tailored fit.
Customers are saying: “The fabric is beautiful, the cut is very flattering, it’s classy and sexy. It was the perfect choice for me. I cannot recommend it enough — it even has pockets!”
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Sizing: XS – XL
Don’t underestimate the power of hidden pockets. These discreet pockets will come in handy whether you’re on the court, or strutting the streets. Halara’s performance wear offers an ample amount of support, without sacrificing style.
Customers are saying: “The neckline offers more coverage for us busty gals than most HALARA styles. The material is thicker than the Cloudful Air but offers more structure and thus keeps more of the figure I’m going for… I may be picky but overall I love this purchase!”
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Sizing: XS – XXL
Silk is the fabric of the season and this midi dress has an enviable pearl-like, moisture-wicking gloss texture that your skin will love as much as you. The drapey shape falls easily for a looser, more breathable fit.
Customers are saying: No reviews available.
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Sizing: 0 -10
Slip into this slightly stretchy sateen mini dress with two side slit pockets for all your necessities. The velvety chocolate color and lace-up back make this piece a real show-stopper.
Customers are saying: No reviews available.
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Sizing: XXS – XXL
Embrace the elegance of this smocked spring dress, adorned with a garden of blossoming flowers. The side slant pockets are barely visible, and the elongated sleeves add some dimension to this graceful silhouette. Reviewers mention that the loose fit leaves space to show off a baby bump, too.
Customers are saying: “I absolutely love this dress! I have it in a couple of different patterns. It can be dressed down or up. The elastic waist gathering is very flattering and it has pockets. The top is a bit low-cut. It has a hook and eye, but I always add a stitch just a bit higher for more coverage.”
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