Need a reason to get dressed up? Autumn is not renowned for a packed-out social calendar, and can often be found wanting when it comes to special occasions to dazzle in your best dress. That said, we’re here to prove that this season is more than chunky jumpers and beanie hats, as autumn dresses are just as worthy of a prime spot in your fall outfit rotation.
There’s no denying that after-work drinks, impromptu day trips, or weekends away feel more enticing when the sun’s shining. And for those willing to brave a cold winter’s night, when better than during the festive season to don a show-stopping party dress? But this in-between period doesn’t have to put a damper on your stellar style. The effortlessly wearable nature means autumn dresses are a top contender for your favourite wardrobe staple this season, but in case you need an excuse, here are five occasions for your diary which favour an autumn dress.
What dress to wear in autumn?
From country walks to candle-lit dinners, there are still plenty of chances to wear a statement dress this season, but which one?
Taking you from summer to autumn, midi dress styles are the most versatile in the face of unpredictable forecasts, either layered with knitwear as the temperature drops or as a standalone piece come summer. The wet, windy weather can deter even the most fashion-forward of us from more daring styles, but an autumn mini dress is the go-to option for party plans that go from dusk to dawn. And of course, with autumn wedding season in full swing, we’re joining the hunt for occasion dresses as the ultimate wedding guest outfit.
5 occasions to wear an autumn dress
We've trawled the calendar for five occasions this season where an autumn dress is a wardrobe must-have.
1. Casual autumn dress for everyday
As soon as the weather turns, you can find us catching up over a fall-themed coffee, getting ahead on Christmas shopping, or taking cover at the movies on particularly rainy days. For casual yet cute fall outfits, a shirt dress is a foundational piece.
Some take a minimalist approach with practical fabrics and features, like our Zaves Chambray Shirt Dress cut from airy chambray and finished with a flattering drawstring waist and functional pockets. For styles that elevate the everyday, an autumn floral dress transforms flirty, feminine flowers to gothic blooms in rich tones. Monochrome palettes and classic prints meanwhile, like this black and white Dotty Puff Sleeve Shirt Dress boast timeless appeal and elegant simplicity.
2. Party dress for going out
With dresses this good, you won't be waiting until party season for your next girl's night out. Already for autumn winter dresses we're seeing the return of glossy metallics, glittery touches, and plush silks and velvets.
In a more subtle nod to full glam, our Carina Embellished Dress adorned in all-over sequins assumes the understated silhouette of a classic LBD, finished with long sheer sleeves to balance the thigh-baring cut. But for a real show-stopping entrance, consider the Adora Satin Ruffle Mini Dress in hot-pink satin with ruffle trim the star of the show. If for autumn, mini dresses aren’t on your agenda, our Ruched Boat Neck Midi Dress is the ideal on-trend outfit.
3. Occasion dress for autumn weddings
Upcoming nuptials to attend? Autumn wedding guest dresses tend to evoke a deeper colour palette than their summer sisters, with pastel hues and ditsy patterns relieved from duty and replaced by jewel tones and bold prints.
Make the most of the opportunity to wear an autumn maxi dress with our Saskia Eydie Ruched Midaxi Dress, guaranteed to draw compliments thanks to its abstract print and playful colourway, as with the more figure-contouring mesh Toni Mesh Gabriela Dress. Florals are still a firm favourite for autumn wedding outfits, but the Bronwyn Aleeya Satin Midi Dress puts a seasonal spin on a classic with inky tones and wintery blooms.
4. Sweater dress for chilly walks
It doesn’t get more autumnal than a Sunday afternoon stroll. All you need is a snug autumn dress, knee high boots, and the accoutrement of the season; a to-go cup of pumpkin spice latte. We’ve got sweater dresses as a staple in our everyday edits from now until spring - and for good reason - including this Kessy Puff Sleeve Dress in shade oatmeal. Cut with a high neckline, bodacious sleeves, and midi hem, here’s a lesson in staying stylish without sacrificing staying warm this season.
5. Work dress for office commutes
Workwear dressing takes strategic outfit planning, especially with forecasts in flux. For office days that start with chilly commutes and end in stifling boardrooms, we’re looking for easy-to-wear pieces like this Rassia Sheryle Rib Mock Neck Midi Dress. With just a simple jacket and a few accessories, this one-piece look exudes quiet confidence with next-to-no effort required. When preparing for your next big meeting, channel soft power dressing with a statement work dress like the tailored Whisper Sleeveless Tux Mini Dress.
This autumn, dress to the nines or dress down as there’s endless occasions to wear a single-style outfit - be it a casual day out or more formal affair. If you’ve been inspired to get dressed up this season, discover our latest edit of autumn dresses.
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