When summer is over, you don't have to put away your dresses – quite the opposite. A autumn dress is one of the season's most versatile pieces: as easy to throw on as a summer dress, but in warming materials and muted colors that suit the cooler months. With the right layers, it will take you all fall long, from the office to weekend dinners.
In this guide, we'll go over why the fall dress is a favorite, what materials and colors are in this fall, which models you should go for, and how to style the dress with tights, boots, and layers – all the way into winter.
That's why the fall dress is a favorite
The dress doesn't stop being relevant just because the temperature drops. A single dress makes for a complete, well-thought-out outfit – you don't have to match top to pants – and in the fall it becomes even more versatile because you can layer it as needed. You can dress it up with heels for a party and down with chunky boots for everyday wear, and the same dress works just as well at work as it does at dinner. In short, the fall dress is one of the most easy-to-wear pieces you can own.
The right material for autumn
The material is what turns a summer dress into a fall dress. Knitwear is the obvious choice for fall – soft, warm and cozy – and a ribbed or cable knit style feels extra seasonal. Thicker jersey and ponte hold their shape and keep them warm, velvet gives a luxurious, dressed-up feel for the evening, and a chiffon or satin dress works well as long as it has long sleeves. Our guide to knitted dresses goes through the coziest model of the fall, and if you're looking for something airier, there's also long-sleeved dresses in lighter fabric. A long-sleeved chiffon dress is an elegant example.
Autumn colors and patterns
Autumn is all about warm, muted shades. Earthy tones like brown, beige, rust and terracotta are the signature of the season, along with deep colors like burgundy, dark green and navy. If you want to lighten up the look, you can add an accent color, such as a strong blue or a muted green. In terms of patterns, plaid is a classic autumn favorite, and dark florals on a black or navy blue background feel autumnal rather than summery – more on that in our guide on floral dresses. A A-line autumn dress in brown checkered pattern captures the season perfectly. You can read about which shade suits you best in the guide about what color suits your skin tone.
Models to invest in
Some models are especially appreciated in the fall:
- Long-sleeved midi or maxi dress: elegant, warm and versatile, just as right for work as for a party.
- Shirtwaist: A safe bet all year round that is especially good in the fall – you can wear bare legs but dress warmer on top, and it's easy to layer a cardigan over it.
- Knitted dress: the coziest of all, perfect with boots and tights.
- High-necked model: Keeps you warm and feels polished without a scarf.
A long-sleeved shirt dress for spring and autumn is a real all-round model, and if you want to compare lengths, we have a guide on dress lengths as well as an overview of different types of dresses. Femina lists more warm fall dresses from knitwear to shirt dresses.
How to style your fall dress with layers
The secret to a stylish fall look is layers. Start with tights – thin or woolly depending on the temperature – and a pair of boots, preferably ankle boots or high boots, which are the obvious autumn shoe for a dress. On top, add a knitted cardigan, a blazer or a straight coat when it gets colder, and a scarf warms and lifts the look at the same time.If you have a sleeveless or thin dress, a bolero or cardigan can make it suitable for autumn – more ideas can be found in the guide on what to wear over a dress. Metro Fashion shows how the same dress can be dressed up with heels or down with chunky boots. Find the right one among our shoes, cardigans and coats.
Autumn dress for parties and everyday wear
The beauty of the fall dress is that the same style can be worn for so many occasions. For the office, a solid-colored, long-sleeved dress with a blazer and boots works. For everyday wear, a knitted dress with sneakers or boots and a tote bag is enough. And for fall parties and dinners, dress it up with heels, sparkly jewelry or a velvet or satin garment - our guide on party dresses helps you find the right one, and a satin dress adds extra sparkle to the evening. If you're going to a fall wedding, long sleeves are both warm and elegant; follow the dress code in spring guide for wedding guests. More everyday tips can be found in the guide about casual dresses. A midi dress for fall is a versatile favorite that goes from day to night.
From autumn to winter
A well-chosen autumn dress doesn't have to be put away when winter comes. Most of it can be worn again – you just build on it with more and warmer layers. Swap thin tights for woolly ones, add a longer coat and a warm scarf, and choose thicker knits or velvet for the coldest days. A light autumn and winter dress with long sleeves is made specifically to be worn through both seasons.
Our favorites right now
Three fall dresses that are easy to style and wear:
- Autumn dress with long sleeves and shawl – warm, elegant and complete with matching shawl.
- A-line autumn dress in brown checkered pattern – flattering A-line in autumn's finest square.
- V-neck midi dress for fall – versatile model that goes from day to evening.
Explore more models among our women's dresses – with free shipping within Sweden. For autumn parties and dinners there is also a high-neck dress for autumn.
Frequently asked questions
What is a fall dress?
A fall dress is simply a dress in materials and colors that are suitable for the cooler months – often knits, thicker jersey, velvet or long-sleeved models in muted, earthy tones. It is often worn with tights, boots and layers, and works equally well for everyday wear as it does for parties.
What material is best for a fall dress?
Knitwear is the obvious choice for fall, but thicker jersey, ponte and velvet also keep you warm. A chiffon or satin dress works well as long as it has long sleeves. Ribbed and cable knits feel extra seasonal.
How do you style a fall dress?
Build the look in layers: start with tights and boots, add a knitted cardigan or blazer, and top with a coat and scarf when it gets cold. Dress up with heels or down with chunky boots depending on the occasion.
What colors suit an autumn dress?
Warm, muted shades like brown, beige, rust, burgundy, dark green and navy are the signature of autumn. Checkered patterns and dark florals also feel autumnal. An accent color can lighten the look.
Can you wear a dress in the fall?
Absolutely – the dress is one of the most useful pieces of clothing this fall. With the right material and layers, it's both warm and comfortable, and it's just as good for the office as it is for dinner or a party.
Which fall dress is suitable for a party?
A long-sleeved model in velvet, satin or with glittery details is perfect for fall parties.Dress it up with heels and jewelry. A high-necked or figure-hugging model feels extra elegant.
