Pretty in pink has never meant more than it did this summer. First, it was the color of the season. Then, Barbiecore reigned as summer’s hottest aesthetic. Now, everyone and everything from the runways to street style stars and even Airbnbs is reveling in the radiant hue. Talk about a global influence. However, if you haven’t joined the bandwagon yet, and don’t know where to begin, look no further than Good American’s Pop Off Pink Collection.
There’s a snazzy piece for everyone with modest oversize tops/outerwear and flirty fitted styles. Most items run from 00 to 26 plus and XXS to 5XL. Also, fans of the brand will be thrilled to know that the label extended the shade to its best-sellers like the High Shine Compression Bodysuit and Better Than Leather Pants — an upcoming fall fashion trend, by the way. While going-out dresses, catsuits, and everyday basics are a Good American given, there are new additions of flirty knits, rugby-inspired tops, and an all-eyes-on-you leather bomber jacket. So, dive on in and swim in Good American’s ocean of pink attire below.
Elevated Basics
Tap into the preppy academia look with a rugby-inspired top or a cozy knitted cardigan when autumn hits. Don’t forget to add a bit of spice with faux leather pants or a shiny bodysuit.
Jazzy One Pieces
Whether it’s date night or going out with your girls, Good American has you covered with effortless one-and-done attire.
Glamorous Statement Items
Don’t overlook the showstoppers that’ll bring extra character to your outfits. Step out in a pair of dazzling hot pink pumps to exude the confidence of Elle Woods from Legally Blonde, or throw on an oversize leather bomber to stand out from the sea of black-hued outerwear.
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Take, for example, Hailey Bieber, who was spotted back in February wearing a pair of cargo jeans with a leather corset. Or: Bridgerton’s Simone Ashley sporting a pair from Mango with a white tank top and leather jacket in May.
Cargo pants have been on the rise for a few seasons now, with everyone from Rihanna and Dua Lipa to Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner wearing the no-purse-needed trouser style from the ‘90s and early 2000s. While some have taken a more utilitarian approach to the look — Bella Hadid wore army green low-rise cargo pants with chunky boots — others are making a case for wearing the style on more formal occasions— like Zendaya who matched a white pair of cargo pants with a metallic chain top on the red carpet. The throwback trend is resonating so much with consumers that Klarna reported a 103% increase in purchases for cargo pants over the past year.
A similar phenomenon has happened with its denim counterpart. On the runways, designers showed club-ready versions of cargo jeans, as well as styles more suited for errands. Y2K-ready brand Blumarine showed a set of denim cargo pants, paired with a butterfly-motif chain belt for spring 2022. Meanwhile, Diesel — another popular brand from the aughts — included a dark wash pair with frontal pockets, paired with a popcorn top, another relic of the era.
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The good news about the comeback is that the modern-day versions of the look are pretty versatile when it comes to styling. As corsets and other Regency-inspired accessories, like opera gloves, continue their reign, they provide an ideal pairing for cargo jeans for a night out. Meanwhile, butterfly tops and platform sandals are better suited for a casual day of brunch and shopping in the summer heat.
If you still need some convincing, take a look at some of the options ahead.
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Welcome to Refinery29’s So, How Is It Really? where we take a look at all of the topics that have the internet talking. In studying them up close, we answer the question of what it’s really like to try out a trend like a harness, a viral product, or an unexpected TikTok hack.
Ever since designer Sally LaPointe unveiled her brand’s spring 2022 collection at a rave-like presentation full of neon lights and blazers paired with harnesses, I haven’t stopped thinking about the latter accessory. The styling secured my obsession: Monochrome, work-appropriate suits juxtaposed with harnesses better suited for a night of pre-pandemic partying.
As the trend caught on, with designers like Dion Lee and Dior showing their own takes for fall 2022 seasons, the urge to get one of my own grew. After two years of loungewear and nap dresses, it was time for some discipline. A leather harness would surely do the trick.
It seems I’m not the only one interested in adding some bits of “fetishcore” into my wardrobe. Searches for harnesses were up by 132% month-over-month in 2022, according to Lyst, while other BDSM-inspired accessories, like leather chokers and latex products, were also on the rise. On TikTok, the trend is spreading: #leatherharness has garnered over 10 million views, thanks to creators showing off their styling tricks.
While I gathered some inspiration from creators on TikTok for my own experiment, I figured the best way to approach this was to wear the piece to a set of situations I wouldn’t associate with a harness-clad outfit — a Friday dinner and a family barbecue — and incorporate the accessory into outfits that feel like a second skin to me. So I set out to try a harness by Zana Bayne, a designer known for her leather accessories made by hand, and another from LaPointe’s spring 2022 collection.
First, I paired a LaPointe vinyl harness with a white button-down shirt, beige shorts, and black heels to a Friday dinner with friends. Although one might expect risky outfits to be worn with one’s closest companions, as a conservative dresser, that’s not something I normally do. So when I walked out to the kitchen to see if my roommate was ready to head out, I was pleasantly surprised by her reaction: “Wow! Fabulous.” So far so good. It got even better when we got to our dinner spot — Chacha Mama on the Upper West Side, thank me later! — and one of the waiters stopped to compliment my outfit on the way out.
Throughout the dinner, I noticed how comfortable I felt wearing a piece that was basically made to constrain my movements. I stood taller, more confident, asserting my presence with poise. Were there families with kids giving my outfit the side eye? Yes. But this is New York — anything goes.
For my next experiment, I walked a riskier road. While on my recent travels to visit family in Puerto Rico, I packed the harness in my carryon, afraid I’d be stopped by TSA officials. I could only imagine what they’d think I do for a living if I told them I was carrying this “for work.” Thankfully, I didn’t have to suffer through that. But I still chose to wear it around family members during a Good Friday barbecue. Oh, lord.
I decided to pair the harness with a black midi dress and flatforms. The otherwise conservative outfit was made subversive by the harness, a juxtaposition I carefully chose to trick my relatives into liking this outfit. It worked. As soon as I walked into my mother’s room, she said, “¿Y eso? It looks good.” Later, at the family function, no one batted an eye when I showed up wearing the accessory, which I took as a sign that they weren’t surprised that, as a devout agnostic, I chose a holy day to sport a dungeon-ready harness.
During the barbecue, I kept feeling confident, just like during the dinner. My back was straighter (I bet my chiropractor will like this experiment), and I felt like my outfit said everything there was to know about me to the people who think they know me best.
I packed the harness back in my carryon, while doing some mental math on how many could I afford to get for myself. I shall obey the trend’s calling soon enough. If you feel like it too, here are some options to try now.
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Closed-toe season is upon us — which means that we’re soon due to tap into some of the top trends for fall. While our upper bodies will likely get swathed in layerable knits, denim, and leather, how shall we dress our feet below? Rest assured, we have a few ideas. Now, some of these shoe “trends” are admittedly evergreen: Everyday sneakers and booties, for example, are proven classics. Then there are the likes of squishy clogs or Mary-Jane flats, which are residual summer shoes that ease the transition into fall when worn with a sock and a trouser. We’ve also got occasion-specific footwear, like the disco-esque platform heel, which takes the beloved strappy shoe and elongates its soles to sky-high levels.
Ahead, peep the seven types of shoes we’re placing our bets on for fall. No matter if you’re a raging party hound or a neighborhood troll who needs a slip-on for errands, there’s a fall shoe with your name on it that is sure to help you step into the new season with pizzazz.
Platform Heels
And the category is…Studio 54. These disco-inspired platforms sure cause a fashion statement — just as long as you don’t trip in them! And for the chillier days ahead, put on a pair of fishnet or sheer socks before shimmying your way out the door.
Mary-Janes
It’s safe to assume that the Mary-Jane trend is a natural evolution of the ballet flat — which we all know has since proven to be a versatile (if not classic) silhouette. Add a strap here and a chunkier sole there, and suddenly, you’ve got yourself a fresh (but still timeless) skim-worthy shoe.
Low-Calf Boots
These are similar to the beloved Chelsea boot but rather than coming up short at ankle-length, these rise to the occasion of the calf. A tad more substantial and attention-worthy, these boots are best shown off with generously cropped pants or a midi skirt.
Lifestyle Sneakers
And Harry Styles fans in the house? For those who are curious as to what he’s wearing on his feet every night during his Madison Square Garden residency, it’s all Adidas all the time. Therefore, I simply can’t exclude the “everyday” sneaker in this story. These kicks are purely for fashion — don’t even think about doing anything athletic in them.
Sky-High Boots
In case you haven’t picked up on this yet, thigh-high boots will forever be in any “fall shoe” roundup…but for good reason! They make any outfit seasonally appropriate, especially if you refuse to stow away your mini skirts and shorts until basically the holidays.
Lugsole Loafers
A steadfast shoe trend from last year is the lugsole loafer, which continues to stomp its way into people’s hearts and their wardrobes. Don’t forget to add a pair to your footwear rotation this season.
Comfy Clogs
Sure, we all love our sleek, wooden-soled clogs — but this year, we’ve seen a real uptick in the fugly mule movement. You know when you see them because they spawn from the almighty Croc — they’re squishy, lightweight, and unabashedly hideous. Somehow, though, the urge to slip them on remains strong.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Over the course of its nearly 80-year history, J.Crew has created an aesthetic so distinctive that the brand’s name is practically synonymous with Breton stripes, casual jeans, leopard prints, and over-the-shoulder sweaters that take the phrase “All-American” to heart. For a while it was also synonymous with the name of the previous creative director, Jenna Lyons, whose work made J.Crew an It-brand for millennials in the 2010s. Lately, for fashion fans on TikTok, another name has come to the forefront: Olympia Gayot, the brand’s current head of womenswear and kids design.
With a following of 60,000 people on Instagram, Gayot is the kind of designer-meets-It girl who understands that connecting with her customers online is part of her job in an increasingly digital fashion industry. And so, when Gayot joined J.Crew in 2020, she started using her own style as a way to capture a new generation of fans for the brand. While Gayot doesn’t have a public account on TikTok, as of August 2022, searches for her name on the platform have grown to over 800 million views, with creators and fashion fans dissecting her outfits of the day, which often involve slip dresses, sweaters, colorblocked workwear, and denim-on-denim looks. “She is single-handedly helping the J.Crew comeback with her Instagram stories,” said creator Malia Curi in a recent video as she shared screenshots of Gayot’s outfits. Another creator, who goes by @caitforshort, revealed she hasn’t been “this passionate about J.Crew since the Jenna Lyons days.”
“It’s been really exciting and inspiring to see people so interested and supportive of both J.Crew and my relationship to it,” Gayot tells Refinery29. “I love hearing the analysis on TikTok as people draw their own conclusions as to how my style relates to the brand.”
Back in the 2010s, J.Crew’s former leading lady, Jenna Lyons, was one of fashion’s biggest trendsetters, making thick eyeglasses, high-low style combos, bedazzled sweaters, and a cuffed button-down some of the decade’s must-haves. For years, her style represented J.Crew’s point of view for fashion fans, who looked to the brand’s leader for inspiration. Still, for all the fame Lyons earned during her tenure at J.Crew, the designer wasn’t as quick to adapt to the rise of Instagram’s designer-customer relationship, only joining the app in 2020, after she had left the company. While J.Crew enjoyed a good run as one of America’s favorite brands for years, by the mid-2010s, it became just another casualty of millennials’ appetite for increasingly digital brands and authentic connections and aversion to all things cookie-cutter… or found in a mall.
NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 02: Jenna Lyons attends The New York Premiere of the Sixth & Final Season of “Girls” – After Party at Cipriani 42nd Street on February 2, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)
“We never had a parasocial relationship with Jenna Lyons,” says Chidera Nwankwo, a TikTok creator whose video on Olympia Gayot’s J.Crew has grown over 200,000 views. “The appeal now is being able to almost have that relationship with J.Crew through Olympia.” Nwanko’s perspective is a shared one among Gayot’s fans on TikTok: They see the designer as someone who’s unveiling the curtain of a traditionally exclusive industry and inviting them behind-the-scenes, essentially making them feel like, if they shop from the brand, they’re not only supporting the company, but an internet friend.
For years now, both start-ups and established fashion players have recognized that millennials and Gen Z, who grew up in the era of behind-the-scenes YouTube videos and industry-focused reality TV shows, are interested in the people that make a brand.
This phenomenon has given rise to figures like Balmain’s Olivier Rousteing, who is as popular as the brand he helms, thanks to his social media following, as well as Gen Z entrepreneurs like Frankies Bikinis’s Francesca Aiello and Rogue’s Emma Rogue, who are digital influencers in their own right. Similarly, Gayot is the face of the company, with a separate category for her picks on the brand’s website, as well as her famous mirror selfies on J.Crew’s Instagram page.
While it may all look carefully curated, both Gayot and Derek Yarbrough, J.Crew’s chief marketing officer, say there hasn’t been much strategy behind Gayot viral popularity. “Obviously I wear a ton of J.Crew and try to show a snapshot of behind the scenes, and I am capturing what I’m actually wearing day to day, so it’s great to see people gravitating to it,” says Gayot, who describes her personal style as classic and mainly focused on comfort and longevity. This aesthetic is in line with J.Crew’s return to its roots — seasonless clothing that can stand beyond the trends, a dramatic shift from the ultra-trendy, maximalist styles the brand championed in the 2010s, and that’s largely credited for its decline over the past few years.
Still, that doesn’t mean J.Crew lacks the viral trendiness of the TikTok era. In fact, many of the brand’s heritage staples — stripes, straight-leg denim, and classic button-down shirts — fit in with today’s biggest aesthetics, from Coastal Grandmother and Light Academia to Soft Girl. “I think J.Crew is resonating [right now] because we are a natural fit for many niche aesthetics due to the variety of signature items found within our collections,” says Yarbrough, adding that “Coastal Grandmother” is the best example. “Our classic yet elevated product lens acts as the foundational approach that lets customers thoughtfully build their wardrobe and express their own personal take on classic style.”
Yet, for creators like Nwankwo, the biggest appeal continues to be Gayot’s unfiltered approach. “It’s almost like we all wished more brands would do this,” she says. “She needs to get on TikTok.”
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The fall is officially here, which means cue the pumpkin-spiced everything, leafy retreats to log cabins, and, of course, cozy knits. But if you thought the end of summer also meant the end of the dress, let us remind you that there are a number of fabulous fall dresses just waiting to be paired with your favorite autumn-ready chunky loafers or black booties. But which one to pick?
While there are some fall dress trends you can count on to make a comeback as soon as temperatures start to drop (we're talking sleeves, plaid, and sweater-inspired styles), others are more of the minute, like smocked bodices and cardigans that can double as a dress. Whether you want an everyday piece, a fancy fall wedding guest dress, or a work-approved style, we turned to shoppers themselves to help us find the top picks for the season ahead. They've left ratings and reviews across the best-selling styles from all our go-to retailers, like Everlane, J.Crew, Free People, and beyond. We've followed the proverbial breadcrumbs in order to round up 15 of the best fall dresses on the internet right now.
Welcome toHype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star-and-up club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Pact The Downtime Sweatshirt Dress
The Comfy Everyday Dress
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 168 reviews on WearPact.com
Pact's favorite Essential Sweatshirt has now evolved into a relaxed-fit dress that flatteringly hits right above the knee. It's the fall essential that you'll repeatedly wear to the gym, errands, and home throughout the cool autumn.
"This sweatshirt dress is the whole package — maximum comfort and still quite cute. It fits true to size, did not shrink in the wash (on delicate), and has good body contours. Also, it leaves a feminine silhouette without being too tight," a reviewer writes in detail. "It's warm with leggings and long enough to wear without when the weather is hot. The pockets are great too. I hardly want to wear anything else!"
PACT The Downtime Sweatshirt Dress, $, available at PACT
Everlane The Field Dress
The Never-Failing Transitional Dress
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 44 reviews Everlane.com
Look no further for the effortless transitional dress of the season. It's made of ultra-soft, lightweight cotton for breathability in the warmer seasons, and its polished all-black style allows easy layering in the cooler months.
"I absolutely love the fit of this dress. It's very breezy and comfortable to wear. Also, I like that I can wear this in both the Chicago summers and the winters with leggings and a cardigan on top," writes a reviewer. "It's so versatile I know the ways I can wear this are endless. When it comes to the fit I like my clothes a bit loose, so I usually buy a size 4, but this time I bought a 2 and it fit perfectly!"
Everlane The Field Dress, $, available at Everlane
Asos Design Sweetheart Neck Ruched Midi Tea Dress In Floral Print
The Designated Fall Frock
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 11 reviews on Asos.com
Just gazing at this sweetheart neck midi dress you'll feel like fall has arrived. The burgundy, orange, and olive green floral print exudes autumn vibes. Prepare to frolic through the fallen leaves in the upcoming months with a pair of boots.
"It was a last minute decision to buy this dress for a festival and I am so glad I did," writes a reviewer. "The fabric is such good quality and it fits perfectly. It's now my favorite dress ever and I can see it lasting a really long time! The colors are so vibrant and pretty. I've received lots of compliments."
ASOS DESIGN Sweetheart Neck Ruched Midi Tea Dress In Floral Print, $, available at ASOS
J.Crew Zip-Front Chino Dress
The Jazzy Utilitarian Dress
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 39 reviews on Jcrew.com
If you're a fan of the sleek utilitarian style — like cargo denim — then try out a dress version. The professional ulterior is suitable for the office and for elevated events. Yet, it has the fun touch with bright colors like salmon pink, slate green, and navy.
"I love this dress and get compliments every time I wear it. It's comfortable and easy to throw on, but I feel instantly put together, so I can wear it to work meetings, and it's flattering," writes a reviewer. "It washes well, too (I don't put it in the dryer except for a few minutes to steam, then hang dry)."
J.Crew Zip-Front Chino Dress, $, available at J.Crew
Eloquii Faux Leather Shirtdress
The Trendy Mini
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 60 reviews on Eloquii.com
Tap into one of fall's hottest trends of faux leather with this buttery soft shirtdress. It's designed for the fashionable gals who adore that luxe aesthetic. The dropped shoulder and front buttons add a nonchalant flair, while the belt allows for a chic cinched appearance.
"I'm a curvy size 16 girl and this dress is everything. I can't wait to rock it this fall," writes a reviewer. "Not only is it a great fit, but the color is a rich caramel. It feels great, looks like real leather — it's a must-have."
Eloquii Faux Leather Shirtdress, $, available at Eloquii
Venus Plaid High Low Dress
The Classic Fall Dress
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 18 reviews on Venus.com
Twirl around in this plaid high-low mini dress and watch the skirt flow around you. The styling opportunities are endless with this timeless piece, as you can let down the sleeves for a modest appearance or roll it up for a laid-back look. Make sure to order a size up, as reviewers have reported that the bust can be tight because of the button front.
"I love this dress. I read the reviews before I ordered and ordered 1 size up as suggested because it runs small," shares a reviewer. "The dress is comfy and cute. I haven't had a chance to wear it yet, but I'm excited to dress it up with black boots and hat!"
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 164 reviews on FreePeople.com
With a little bit of boho, flowy sleeves, and button-up front, this maxi dress mixes up all the top trends with an ethereal silhouette to boot.
"I love everything about this dress…especially all of the compliments I get when wearing. I have the white and just purchased the brown," writes a reviewer. "I literally have never worn it and not be[en] told how amazing it is. It'll make you feel like the goddess you should feel like. I'm 5’8” and about 160lbs. I purchased large and medium and love how both fits. I've styled them for every season of the year with flip-flops and knee boots. You can’t go wrong with this dress!"
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 255 reviews on OneQuince.com
There's one word that immediately comes to mind when we hear the phrase "sweater weather": cashmere. This turtleneck dress by the brand Quince — known for high-quality basics at radically low prices — is both flattering and comfortable, and it's made from the softest grade A cashmere to make your autumn attire dreams come true.
"I love this cozy dress," exclaims a reviewer. "It's a beautiful color, excellent quality, and it's very true to the picture. The countdown to autumn begins."
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress, $, available at Quince
AFRM Assi Dress
The Wedding Guest Dress
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 59 reviews on Revolve.com
Open back, waist cutouts, and a satin finish are the fixings for a seriously fashion-forward fall dress. Even so, this is one style that you can feel confident in as you step outside of your sartorial comfort zone and into any chic setting.
“This dress is everything," a reviewer oozes. "The top has clasps so you can adjust it to be less revealing. The material is so soft and stretchy and comfortable. Bought this to wear to weddings and I can't wait!”
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 220 reviews on HM.com
Think your favorite cozy sweatshirt...but make it a dress. This H&M style is made from a soft cotton-blend fabric and features polished embellishments like a high collar and cuffed sleeves so even if you feel like you're in loungewear, you won't look like you are.
"It's perfect over leggings on a chilly day," writes a reviewer. "The soft fabric feels like you're wearing a cloud."
H&M Collared Sweatshirt Dress, $, available at H&M
Jenni Kayne Everyday Kate Sweater Dress
The Luxurious Maxi
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 35 reviews on JenniKayne.com
Despite its name, this Jenni Kayne number is not your average sweater dress. Its ankle-skimming silhouette makes for a warm and luxurious staple item that you'll never want to change out of.
"This dress is everything," raves a reviewer. "I expected soft and comfortable — and it is that — but I did not expect that I would feel like Amal Clooney or Angelina Jolie, awakening in an exotic locale, wrapping up in this cloud and drifting out onto the balcony to assess my surroundings. Could a dress make a person feel slightly famous? Yup. I love it."
Now that's a next-level dress that you definitely want in your fall lineup.
Jenni Kayne Everyday Kate Sweater Dress, $, available at Jenni Kayne
UO River Smocked Mini Dress
The All-Occasions Option
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 66 reviews on UrbanOutfitters.com
This textured, square-neck mini dress may incorporate all of the buzziest dress trends at once (smocked bodice, tiered silhouette, puff sleeves), but when combined, you end up with a surprisingly versatile style.
“WORTH IT. I bought this just to get options for special occasions dresses and it turns out to be one of my all-time favorite dress," exclaims a reviewer. "It's so simple but beautiful!”
UO River Smocked Long Sleeve Mini Dress, $, available at Urban Outfiiters
Max Studio Print Tiered Maxi Dress
The Compliment Magnet
The Hype: 3.9 out of 5 stars; 270 reviews on NordstromRack.com
Almost at the 4-star mark, this tiered frock deserves your full attention. According to a number of reviewers (mind you, there are over 200), this dress is exactly what you need if you want to turn heads this autumn. One happy shopper even attests to it being prettier than its photo.
“The dress is prettier in person," writes a reviewer. "It’s a great all seasons piece, I plan on wearing it with boots and a sweater now and sandals later on."
Max Studio Elbow Length Sleeve Print Tiered Maxi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Norma Kamali Long Sleeve Crew Dress To Knee
The LBD
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 20 reviews on Zappos.com
Because you simply can't go wrong with a little black dress — or anything Norma Kamali — reviewers agree that this knee-length crew dress is a pretty solid pick for fall.
“This dress is a perfect LBD! The typical Norma Kamali slinky fabric is slightly heavy, but it is still quite breathable in warmer weather,” describes a reviewer. “It travels well too. Take it out of your suitcase, shake it, hang it up, and any wrinkles will fall right out. It’s great with everything from a cardigan and flats or denim jacket and wedges by day to stiletto sandals and a statement necklace for a night out!”
Norma Kamali Long Sleeve Crew Dress To Knee, $, available at Zappos
Gentle Herd Mesh Overlay Maxi Dress
The Mesh Dress
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 135 reviews on GentleHerd.com
Crafted from the dreamiest of materials, this sleek dress hits the style trifecta: soft, sophisticated, seasonless.
"It fits like a glove," shares a reviewer. "The color is beautiful and the fabric is so soft, stretchy and durable, I was comfortable in it all night and received lots of compliments."
Gentle Herd Mesh Overlay Maxi Dress, $, available at Gentle Herd
Eloquii Elements Striped Cardigan Sweater Dress
The Dress For The Cardigan Obsessed
If you still can't get enough of the cardigan trend for cooler temperatures (thank you, Harry Styles), this wear-it-both-ways sweater dress is for you.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 20 reviews on Walmart.com
What They’re Saying: “Heavy weight with a great deal of stretch. You can probably go down a size due to the thickness of the yarn and the amount of stretch. It's so plush and thick you won't need a coat. It fits great, order your size if you want a true fit which hugs your curves loosely, go down a size or two if you want it shorter and snug.."— Chelon P., Eloquii reviewer
Eloquii Novelty Stretch Cardigan Sweater Dress, $, available at Eloquii
BB Dakota Knit The Scene Dress
The Sweater Dress
Nothing says fall like a classic long-sleeve sweater dress and this cozy, ribbed style has left many a Nordstrom shopper pleased with their pick.
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 27 reviews on Nordstrom.com
What They’re Saying: “Amazing fall dress. This is my new favorite fall article of clothing. I would buy it in every color if they weren’t sold out.” — Ocnordstomlover, Nordstrom reviewer
BB Dakota Knit The Scene Long Sleeve Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom
A New Day Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress
The Under-$30 Option
You can't go wrong with a classic midi knit dress for fall and this under $30 option comes in four colors and features a versatile rib texture.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 49 reviews on Target.com
What They're Saying: "I love how comfy this is! I just wear it with short boots and it looks so nice! I like that it’s a mix between loose and form-fitting. It gives a nice shape if you size down but it’s not uncomfortably tight." - mheet, Target reviewer
A New Day Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress, $, available at Target
Pact Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress
The No Brainer
Get into the fall swing this season in this super-wearable cable knit dress that's made from 100% organic cotton.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 128 reviews on Wearpact.com
What They’re Saying: “This dress is more than expected. Heavy enough to be substantial, light enough to be comfortable and flattering - and all with organic cotton? COME ON! It's perfect. I will wear it every week this winter.” — O.F., Pact reviewer
PACT Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress, $, available at PACT
Toad&Co. Rosalinda Dress
The Buy-It-In-Every-Color Dress
This stretchy v-neck dress is as flattering as it is comfortable, which is why it comes as no surprise that shoppers have scooped it up in multiple colors (it's available in nine different prints).
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 162 reviews on toadandco.com
What They’re Saying: “For me, the Rosalinda Dress is perfection. I love it so much, I own several, in different prints. Beautiful, flattering, comfortable, excellent quality, travels and washes well. I love the simplicity of just putting on this dress and going out into the world feeling and looking great."— Ann L., Toad&Co. reviewer
Anthropologie Space-Dyed Knit Midi Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Universal Standard Foundation Turtleneck Dress
The Fitted Pick
This sleek turtleneck dress is made from a fine-ribbed, super-smooth fabric that looks fabulous on its own or layered with another piece. And considering Universal Standard is the champion of size inclusivity, it's a flattering fall style almost anyone can rock.
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 24 reviews on Universalstandard.com
What They’re Saying: “Soft and fitted, this dress hugged me without strangling my body... Versatile, soft, not too warm...it's perfect for wearing in San Francisco, my hometown!” — Lorraine C., Universal Standard reviewer
Universal Standard Foundation Long Sleeve Turtleneck Dress, $, available at Universal Standard
Everlane The Tiered Mockneck Dress
The Transitional Trend Piece
Tiered dresses have been all the rage throughout the warmer months of this year, and Everlane's latest take features the necessary prints and fabric to transition the style into the fall. As one reviewer put it, the dress works best when paired with a fall-friendly pair of mules or loafers.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 19 reviews on Everlane.com
What They’re Saying: “Myyyy Ohhhh Myyyy: This dress is absolutely flattering. I knew I had to have it once I tried it on in-store and another customer saw it on me and shouted 'WOOOOW that looks beautiful on you.' It's super comfy and stylish. I actually had to size down since it runs larger. I plan to wear it this fall with my 1 of my Tory Burch flats. I cannot wait. This dress is a must-have yall."— Tujuana Monae, Everlane reviewer
Everlane The Tiered Mockneck Dress, $, available at Everlane
Nine West Flounce Sweatshirt Dress
The Under-$50 Option
If you want to upgrade your fall attire without causing strain on your wallet, consider this affordable pick from Kohl's — a modern take on the good ol' fashioned sweater dress.
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 4 reviews on Kohls.com
Nine West Flounce Sweatshirt Dress, $, available at Kohl's
Madewell Lucie Elbow-Sleeve Smocked Midi Dress
The Cottagecore Choice
All those English countryside ensembles that resulted from the nap dress phenomenon aren't going anywhere... at least not any time soon. If you're late to the trend, consider scooping up Madewell's best-selling iteration in a fall-friendly gingham print.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 21 reviews on Madewell.com
What They’re Saying: “This dress is perfect! I hoped to purchase the blue daisy print but it was backordered until November and I’m happy it is because this print is perfect for Fall. Drapes perfectly, material is amazing, super-flattering style. Love love love it!"— Heathl, Madewell reviewer
Madewell Lucie Elbow-Sleeve Smocked Midi Dress in Gingham, $, available at Madewell
lululemon All Yours Tank Dress
The Back-To-Work Look
This breathable midi dress is made to move when you move — whenever, wherever — making it a popular pick for getting back out into the world after life on lockdown.
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 81 reviews on lululemon.com
What They’re Saying: “This dress is great for work and casual wear. The cut is flattering and the fabric is a little thicker. I think the dress will be great with a shirt or cardigan for fall.." — MichelleInMadison, lululemon reviewer
Lululemon All Yours Tank Maxi Dress, $, available at Lululemon
Topshop Floral Tie Front Mini Dress
The Major Mini
Topshop may officially have a new cyber home on asos.com, but its fashion offerings this season are trendy as ever. This long sleeve mini dress, for example, has sweet tie details and the jewel tone hue is very fun for fall.
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 7 reviews on asos.com
What They’re Saying: “LOOKS REALLY EXPENSIVE! So happy with this! It looks like leather! So many compliments!!" — Anonymous, asos reviewer
Topshop Textured Floral Tie Front Mini Dress, $, available at ASOS
JTangoParadiseShop Button Front Mixed Media Dress
TheSeason-less Style
Take your shirt dress game to new heights (and lengths) with this extra-long, high-quality style on Etsy featuring a contrast of solid navy and blue and white striped fabrics and — you guess it — pockets. Wear it over tights and under a chunky knit for the fall and then drop those layers like it's hot when spring rolls around.
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 117 reviews on Etsy.com
What They’re Saying: “This is the perfect dress, for summer or otherwise - a long-sleeved long dress is just what I have been looking for and I couldn't be more pleased! Fantastic quality and wrapped with such care and precision. My order even came with little extra goodies and a coupon! I am thrilled and can't wait to buy from this lovely shop again!"— Hope, Etsy reviewer
JTangoParadiseShop Button Front Mixed Media Dress, $, available at Etsy
JTangoParadiseShop Button Front Mixed Media Dress
TheSeason-less Style
Take your shirt dress game to new heights (and lengths) with this extra-long, high-quality style on Etsy featuring a contrast of solid navy and blue and white striped fabrics and — you guess it — pockets. Wear it over tights and under a chunky knit for the fall and then drop those layers like it's hot when spring rolls around.
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 93 reviews on Etsy.com
What They’re Saying: “This is the perfect dress, for summer or otherwise - a long-sleeved long dress is just what I have been looking for and I couldn't be more pleased! Fantastic quality and wrapped with such care and precision. My order even came with little extra goodies and a coupon! I am thrilled and can't wait to buy from this lovely shop again!"— Hope, Etsy reviewer
JTangoParadiseShop Button Front Mixed Media Dress, $, available at Etsy
AFRM Shailene Midi Dress
The Comfortably Out-Of-Your-Comfort-Zone Style
Leopard print, sheer mesh fabric, and cheeky thumbholes are the fixings for a seriously fashion-forward fall dress. Even so, this is one style that you can feel confident in as you step outside of your sartorial comfort zone.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 17 reviews on Revolve.com
What They’re Saying: “This is the BEST . I wasn't sure at all at first because I thought the material would be too fine and it looked a bit tricky to put on with the straps and armholes, I got it wrong a couple of times! Once I'd got it properly on however I fell in love. This dress is incredible - hugs every curve without being too tight or showy. Can't wait to style it with oxfords or heels/boots and a leather jacket for Fall evenings out. For sizing, I'm 5'11 and 185 lbs and DD's and I went with the medium based on reviews and it fits great, I think the large would have been too big! A great buy, especially for the price!" — Anonymous, Revolve reviewer
