18 Versatile Fall Dresses for Welcoming the New Season

Fall fashion conversations may tend to center around chunky knits and leather boots, but among the more underrated staples for autumn is a seasonal dress. And while you may be tempted to slip into a reliable sweater-and-jeans combination as soon as the weather turns slightly crisp, investing in some versatile dresses that can mix and match with your favorite accessories is a smart move for keeping things fresh. 

So what distinguishes a fall dress from, say, a summer dress? Longer sleeves, thicker fabrics, longer hemlines, and richer color palettes are all characteristics of a superb fall dress, and these details all keep you warm while helping you to avoid an outfit rut. Ahead, see 18 fall dresses to consider adding to your wardrobe right now.

Christy Dawn The Tallulah Dress $238.00

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This full tiered skirt dress was rotary printed in Erode, India. It features delicate piping on the bodice and a partially open back with three ties. Wear it with flat suede booties and your favorite autumnal handbag.

Dia & Co Arwen Pleated Polka Dot Maxi Dress $65.00

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Punctuate a long-sleeve maxi dress silhouette with a bold polka dot print. Style this number with a printed headscarf worn à la milkmaid and sneakers.

Yanyan Knits Stratus Linen Maxi Cardigan $316.00

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Hong Kong-based sustainable knitwear brand YanYan is the ideal destination for a unique fall dress. Wear this striped option with a pair of fun socks and loafers.

Ganni Floral Mesh Ruched Midi Dress $325.00

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From the square neckline to the moody floral print, this long-sleeve dress from Ganni is a great pick for fall. It'll transition to spring quite nicely, as well.

Nanushka Edel $775.00

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Leave it to Nanushka to craft the ideal vegan leather fall dress. Accessorize with bold earrings and architectural heels.

Kuvr Vintage Dress With Handmade Bobbin Lace $475.00

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Come fall, a Victorian-inspired aesthetic feels especially suitable. This 100% cotton handmade lace dress checks off all the boxes with its puff sleeves and intricate detailing.

Sea Ines Dress $495.00

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Whoever said florals are best for spring clearly hasn't laid eyes on this long-sleeve beauty. Style with a drape-y trench coat and heeled boots.

Simple Retro Diane V-Neck Satin Slip Dress $37.00

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For date nights and other special occasions, a silky slip dress in a rich green hue feels oh so right. Wear with delicate jewelry and strappy sandals.

The Frankie Shop Gestuz Avery Dress $255.00

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Open-back dresses can still find their footing in autumn—just go for an option that's longer and in a darker palette, and you have a stunning look for your next night out.

Rouje Apolline Dress $206.00

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Did someone say Roaring Twenties 2.0? One of the best going-out dresses money can buy, this is a great option if your fall plans are looking to be a continuation of summer's reunions and parties.

Faithfull the Brand Sobita Midi Dress $249.00

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Wear this puff-sleeved beauty to translate the prairie, cottagecore aesthetic to autumn.

Hanifa Miya Knit Cardigan Dress $269.00

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No autumnal wardrobe is complete without a sweater dress in tow. Trust us—you'll wear it all the time.

Míe Gozo Dress $265.00

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You'll never have a bad outfit day when this puff-sleeve fall dress is hanging in your closet.

Meadows Celosia Dress $341.00

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Meet the denim dress of your dreams. This ruffled number would embody Western chic with cowboy boots.

Rebecca Taylor Ladder Stitch Sweater Dress $595.00

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If you have a wedding or event coming up and are on the hunt for a formal fall dress, consider this breathtaking option from Rebecca Taylor.

Marle Gaia Dress $400.00

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An asymmetrical neckline pairs well with the sweater dress aesthetic, don't you think?

Norte Finisterre $385.00

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This look is perfect for wearing to the office and for after-work drinks. Accessorize this red fall dress with mules and a long coat.

Sezane Estela Dress $185.00

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Nod to a bohemian vibe with this lace-up dress. To finish, add in a pair of statement earrings and knee-high boots.