Old Navy’s The Occasion Dress Collection Sale 2025, Tested

I don’t know about you, but I’m already booked and busy this summer. Between holidays, vacay, baby showers, and weddings, I need about 10 dresses at the ready, except I don’t feel like shelling out a ton of cash to put together a bunch of elevated looks. That’s where Old Navy’s ‘The Occasion’ line comes in. 

The Occasion is chock-full of chic dresses and separates (each in sizes XS through 4XL) from designer Zac Posen. Intended for special events (we see you, wedding season), you’ll find fabrics such as taffeta, satin, and chiffon in a variety of trending styles, ranging from bubble hemlines to flutter sleeves. All the dresses are super affordable and are on sale right now for up to 64% off (starting at just $30). Since my calendar is filled with parties and celebrations—some of which are with my mom—we thought it would be fun to try a few styles out together. TL;DR, the pieces rival my usual go-tos.

Polka dots are everywhere right now, so I was immediately drawn to this two-piece tank and skirt set. But after seeing the colors—brown and white polka dots, navy and white polka dots, pink floral, black floral, red, and black—I opted for the black. I figured I’d get more wear out of it. After trying it on, I was impressed not only by the price (both pieces cost $65) but also by the quality. The smooth, lustrous taffeta holds its shape and flatters the figure, particularly the waist. The skirt has an A-line and hits at the calf—my idea of a perfect fit. The smocking on the back of the top feels comfortable and looks streamlined, plus you can adjust the straps for a customized fit. I could easily pair this with ballet flats or kitten heels for a variety of occasions. 

One thing about my mom is that she loves a floral, whether that’s in the form of actual flowers or just a bright pattern. She also loves something with a bit of a sleeve. This dress, which comes in dusk navy, green, and black floral, is ideal for her. With a frilly, feminine sleeve, a cinched waist, and a leg opening, the dress flatters all the right angles and offers a bit of movement. The material is satin, so it’s silky and shiny, yet thoughtfully thick, so you won’t feel like you’re one wind gust away from a wardrobe malfunction. 

With a cowl neckline and a draped back featuring an adjustable tie, this body-skimming satin dress is both sexy and chic. It hugs all the right areas while cascading beautifully off the hips. We both wanted this one, and after trying it on, we had to fight over who got which color so we wouldn’t show up to our events wearing the same dress. Take it from both of us, this is a versatile pick that you’ll want in your closet all spring and summer long. It comes in a variety of colors (light green, coral, black floral, black, champagne, and navy and white polka dots), so you can pick one you like or get them all. 

Other Dresses We Love 

With a cute knot at the waist, this dress is flattering yet comfortable, lending itself well to all sorts of occasions.

A flutter sleeve adds a feminine touch to almost any garment, and this dress is no exception.

This ruffle chiffon maxi is easy, breezy, and looks way more expensive than it is.

This chiffon maxi rivals high-end designers in terms of style, fit, and price.