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With the proper styling, the right layering, and fall accessories, your favorite summer dress is even more versatile than you think. You can wear this past season’s colored maxis, floral sundresses, and breezy baby dolls throughout fall too. In other words, don’t put away your summer dresses just yet. It’s time to revive go-to styles with the help of fresh fall accessories and some transitional styling tips. A wardrobe staple can and should last longer than just one season. Need ideas on how? Here are six stylish strategies for wearing your favorite summer dresses this fall.
Home Is Where the Housedress Is
This summer was all about bringing back the ease and sweetness of the housedress and nightgown-inspired silhouettes. But just because summer is coming to a close, doesn’t mean the cottagecore trend has to go away. In fact, cozying up in one of its gowns this fall seems like the next best thing to a pair of pajamas and slippers. Instead, add an oversized, knit cardigan and slip into some shearling slides and your sleepy summer dresses will turn into fall frocks.
What’s Poplin?
Take a poplin midi from summer to street by adding any of your fall blazers. A snug blazer would accentuate the full skirt silhouette for a prim and put-together look, while a relaxed-fit jacket worn open would offer a more laid-back aesthetic. Both, however, would benefit from some sleek sneakers and everyday jewelry.
Don’t Boot the Baby Doll
Summer’s puff-sleeve baby dolls and spaghetti-strap minis aren’t just for heat waves, these thigh-grazing dresses are perfect for those in-between, not too cold, not too hot days. Don’t miss out on the most opportune time for transitional style. Pair a baby doll and a long-sleeve layer with two of fall’s biggest accessory trends: a comfortable, flat moto boot and large chain jewelry.
Go to Great Lengths
Match up your maxi with something equally dramatic. Pair one of fall’s leather trenches and overcoats with your ankle-skimming summer dress for an elongated and minimalist silhouette. Top it off with a pair of small hoops and spiffy leather ankle boots.
Sundress Solutions
A floaty, floral sundress might feel, well, very summery. Turn your summer florals into fall blooms with the addition of a black collared shirt. A darker layering piece makes cheerful sundresses feel more polished for fall, as does a ladylike pump.
Vest-Dressed
Shirt dresses and oversized button-ups are one of the most versatile items you can have in your wardrobe. Come summer, the open shirtdress acts as the perfect beach cover-up or casual shirt. Come fall, button it up and it becomes a more sophisticated ensemble, as long as you have the accessories to match. Make sure to swap your flat sandals for sturdy loafers and calf-length socks. For additional fall style reinforcement, layer a sleeveless sweater vest on top to incorporate one of the season’s most important staples: knits.
