Reason number 1,473 to love wearing dresses in fall: if you choose the right shape and print, you can keep on working the same items through winter – and even spring. The trick is to choose rich colors reminiscent of November’s leaves and April’s new blooms, complete with longer sleeves and a midi or maxi length to keep you warm.
To save you from searching, we’ve rounded up the best fall dresses for women that will still look cute through spring. Shop these transeasonal must-haves to get extra mileage out of your autumn closet…
1. The Paisley Dress
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Shop the look: Paisley Lace Trim Button V-Neck Tiered Maxi Dress
Fun, feminine and floaty; this paisley dress is the perfect versatile piece. The chiffon fabric is easy to layer with fall knits, yet light enough to still wear come the warmer spring months. Plus, the loose silhouette makes it ideal for mamas-to-be, while the button front is suitable for nursing moms – so it’s transitional in more ways than one.
2. The Smock Dress
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Shop the look: Vintage Long Sleeve Smocked Top Midi Dress
We love this smock dress so much that we made it in two cute colorways. Choose from sage or chocolate – or both – for a flattering fit that transcends every trend. The long sleeves will keep you feeling snuggly through winter, while the floaty shape is super-comfortable. Plus, that green shade has fall-to-spring vibes written all over it – wouldn’t you agree?
3. The Denim Dress
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Shop the look: Tiered Button Up Denim Collar Midi Dress, Ada Dark Wash Denim Midi Dress
Hello, off-duty denim! It’s the perfect fabric for fall dresses, as it’s thick and, therefore, a little bit warmer than your average ensemble. Just make sure you add leggings for extra coziness. We recommend keeping two in your closet: a floaty number for running errands, and a belted dress with a little more structure to take you to brunch and beyond.
4. The Lace Dress
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Shop the look: Burgundy Ruffle Detail Lace Overlay Dress, Embroidered Overlay Lace Trim Tiered V-Neck Maxi Dress
When dressing up is on the agenda – say for a fall/winter wedding – you can’t go wrong with lace in rich, autumnal tones, such as burgundy or burnt orange. Long sleeves ensure you feel warm and comfortable at every event, while the fabric keeps your dress on the right side of dressy. Add a berry chapstick and nude heels for an elegant look.
5. The Sweater Dress
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Shop the look: Turtleneck Striped Sweater Midi Dress, Henley Ribbed Sweater Midi Dress
There’s only one thing cozier than a sweater, and that’s a sweater dress. Chunky, cuddly and cute, these knitted dresses are a joy to slip on when you’re getting ready. Up the hygge factor with neutral tones of taupe, cream and gray, then just add leggings and boots. We can’t think of a more effortless outfit.
6. The Plaid Dress
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Shop the look: Plaid Fringed Edge Round Neck Shift Midi Dress, Girls Plaid Fringed Edge Round Neck Shift Midi Dress
It’s official: plaid is trending for fall/winter. This prim and pretty print is a holiday staple, looking extra chic on Thanksgiving and throughout the Christmas period. Make it a ‘mommy and me’ moment by shopping one plaid dress for you, and one plaid dress for your mini me. Just think of the holiday photos you’d get with this cute duo.
Up next: Discover 8 of the sweetest fall outfits for kids.