Autumn weather can be tricky to dress for. The temperatures fluctuate frequently, bringing cooler breezes one day and unseasonable warmth the next. While it may be tempting to pack away all your summer dresses as soon as fall hits, you can definitely still wear dresses in autumn. You just need to know how to style them properly for the changing weather.
Key Factors For Dressing In Autumn
When choosing what to wear during autumn, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Temperature – Check the forecast to gauge if it will be a cooler or warmer day. Fall temps can vary greatly.
- Layering – Scarves, cardigans, tights and jackets are your best friends. Embrace layers.
- Fabric – Stick to sturdier fabrics like denim, corduroy, wool and knits.
- Color – Opt for rich, warm hues like mustard, burgundy, hunter green and burnt orange.
The Right Autumn Dresses
While strappy sundresses may need to go into storage until next year, you’d be surprised by how many dress styles work for autumn with the right layering and accessories. Here are some of the best options:
- Shift dresses – Made of wool, corduroy or knit, shift dresses pair perfectly with tights and boots or booties. Choose long sleeve styles on chillier days.
- T-shirt dresses – Jersey knit t-shirt dresses are comfortable and casual. Add an oversized cardigan or jean jacket on top.
- Long sleeve wrap dresses – Flattering wrap dresses work year-round when made of substantial fabrics like jersey or wool. Toss a scarf over top.
- Maxi dresses – Flowy maxi dresses with long sleeves are an easy autumn option. Add a denim jacket and ankle boots.
- Slip dresses – Layer slip dresses over turtlenecks and add tights for a 90’s inspired autumn look.
Styling Tips
Once you’ve picked an autumn-appropriate dress, finish the look with these handy styling tips:
- Add opaque tights or leggings for extra warmth.
- Pull on boots or booties to stay comfortable outdoors.
- Top with a jean or leather jacket for a polished touch.
- Pile on cozy knit scarves, wraps and cardigans.
- Cinch with a belt to define your waist.
- accessorize with warm hats, gloves and blankets if needed.
Fabrics To Look For
These fabrics will keep you warm and stylish for autumn dress wearing:
- Wool – Excellent insulation against the cold. Look for wool knits and sweaters.
- Corduroy – This fabric icon for fall and winter has a cozy texture.
- Denim – Sturdy denim is perfect for cooler weather in shirts, jackets and dresses.
- Jersey – Soft, stretchy jersey knits move with you and keep you comfy.
- Flannel – Soft, brushed flannel is the essence of fall dressing. Try a flannel shirtdress.
- Velvet – Luxe, plush velvet dresses feel glamorous for autumn soirees.
Colors For Autumn
Swap out your summer brights for these rich, earthy hues this fall:
- Mustard
- Olive Green
- Rust
- Burnt Orange
- Camel
- Chocolate Brown
- Forest Green
- Burgundy
- Navy
- Charcoal Grey
These autumnal tones pair perfectly with brown boots and your new seasonal wardrobe.
Putting Together Complete Looks
Use these example fall outfit formulas to build a stylish autumn dress ensemble:
Casual Daytime:
- Jersey t-shirt dress
- Oversized cardigan
- Leggings
- Ankle boots
- Scarf
Office Appropriate:
- Shift wool dress
- Tights
- Tall boots or booties
- Blazer
- Leather bag
Night Out:
- Velvet slip dress
- Lace bralette
- Ankle strap heels
- Leather jacket
- Bold lip
Don’t be afraid to get creative and layer pieces as needed to stay warm and stylish!
Best Places To Shop
Look for cute, affordable autumn dresses at these retailers:
- H&M
- Zara
- ASOS
- Topshop
- Forever 21
- Abercrombie & Fitch
- Gap
- J.Crew
- Old Navy
- Nordstrom Rack
Autumn Dress Styles To Avoid
Steer clear of these dress types and styles for fall:
- Mini sundresses – Too short and skimpy for colder weather
- Strapless/spaghetti strap dresses – Your shoulders will freeze without coverage
- Light, flowy fabrics like chiffon – Too delicate and airy for autumn winds
- Bright, bold prints – Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns instead
- Short sleeve dresses – Look for long sleeves to stay warm
- Bodycon dresses – Difficult to layer properly underneath
Conclusion
With the right styling techniques, fabrics and colors, you can absolutely wear dresses into autumn. The key is choosing more substantial fabrics in darker, richer tones. Layer up with tights, jackets, boots and scarves as needed. With these tips, you’ll stay cozy, comfy and chic in your favorite fall dresses all season long.
| Dress Type | Best Fabrics | What to Wear Underneath | What to Wear On Top |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shift Dress | Wool, Corduroy, Jersey | Tights, leggings | Cardigan, jean jacket, blazer |
| T-shirt Dress | Jersey knits | Leggings, tights | Oversized cardigan, flannel |
| Maxi Dress | Jersey, lightweight wool | Boots | Denim jacket, sweater |
| Slip dress | Satin, lightweight jersey | Turtleck, bralette | Oversized blazer, moto jacket |
| Wrap Dress | Jersey, wool | Tights, tall boots | Scarf |
This covers the key dress types that work for autumn along with styling and layering suggestions. With a little forethought, you can make just about any dress work for the fall season. So go ahead and keep wearing your favorite dresses into autumn by pairing them with the right layers and accessories to stay cozy and look super stylish all season long!
