ootdfashion
I’ve been trying to find ways to wear my autumn dresses more often instead of keeping them for special occasions. These are the kind of dresses I usually don’t mind spending a bit more on, because they’re typically for work events or special outings. However, they often end up just sitting in my closet waiting for their next appearance, which feels like such a waste.
Why do we tend to spend the most money on things we rarely wear? Like those fancy shoes that are impossible to walk in or the dresses that need tape and shapewear to stay in place… guilty as charged!
I’ve discovered the top three autumn dresses for 2021 and want to share how you can make them work for daytime. It’s actually super simple—just add a sweater and some flat shoes. With the extra warmth and comfort, the “special occasion” dress transforms into a chic, everyday staple.
A dress with a bold print that used to feel too much for a quick errand becomes stylish and practical when paired with a thick knit sweater. It adds a flash of color to an otherwise basic autumn outfit. Otherwise, I’d probably be in my standard fall look: light blue jeans, a knit top, white sneakers, and a big coat. Isn’t it nice to have something a little more lively and interesting?
(Not to mention, the long skirt of a special occasion dress is way more comfortable than squeezing into tight, restrictive jeans.)
Here are three autumn dresses that look fabulous for a night out but are just as great when layered with cozy clothes and worn with boots or sneakers:
1. The Leaf Print Shirt Dress from M&S is quite versatile. It needs a belt to cinch the waist for a more flattering look, since it has lots of fabric. Adding a v-neck sweater and some comfortable autumn boots turns it into a perfect everyday dress. I was trying to be a bit fancy with my styling choices!
2. The Floral Printed Midi Dress from Reiss is a bit out of the ordinary for me with its high neck and stylish print. But the gathered details won me over. It combines a gothic vibe with a night out style. To balance out the look, I wear it with sturdy boots from Russell and Bromley, which are both beautiful and practical. A soft pink cardigan from M&S completes the look, keeping the chill at bay.
3. The Flower Field Tiered Maxi Dress from Me+Em is a standout piece. It fits perfectly and its zip-front and stripe detail give it a sporty edge. It’s easy to dress down thanks to the dipped hem, which provides a lighter feel. I wear it with Adidas Stan Smith sneakers that are environmentally friendly, pairing them with a cozy navy sweater from M&S for a relaxed and stylish look.
What’s your favorite dress? Share any tips you have for making fancy dresses work for everyday wear!
