You know, it is surprisingly difficult to find a basic summer cotton dress with pockets. By basic, I mean: sleeveless or short sleeve, but with enough fabric on the shoulders to cover bra straps. And basically no other detailing -- I don't need or want a horizontal seam at the waist, for example; a straight piece of fabric from shoulder to just above the knee is fine, with maybe a few darts at the bust. It seems like a really classic cut, but it's amazing how many places take that cut and then mess with it in ways that I suppose they think are interesting, but in practice, make the clothes less attractive and harder to wear.
I'm sort of amazed that there isn't a store that specializes in dresses like this, because I would LIVE in them in summer. I have a few (and they all have pockets). But I could use more. (And yes, I know how to sew, and I will probably make myself a few at some point. But seriously, this should be like $20 to buy off the rack; it's not complicated.)
Did you try the Land’s End catalog, and also their Canvas line, the sale on last year’s styles is also great.
I did check out Land’s End, but they are sadly lacking in pockets, it looks like. When I am queen of the world, all casual and work dresses will have pockets. (I will allow exemptions on formalwear if I must.)
No, last years styles (sale section,not sure about this year) have pockets. I have 3!
Ah! I will look again!