Autumn might be the season of golden leaves and pumpkin spice everything, but it’s also one of the most exciting times of year for your wardrobe. There’s something magical about pulling out your favourite cosy layers, rediscovering boots you haven’t worn in months, and finding new ways to make your summer dresses work for chillier weather.
If you're looking for inspiration on how to wear your dresses through autumn and beyond, you're in the right place. From layering hacks to colour-pop accessories, I’ve pulled together five easy, stylish outfit ideas that prove dresses aren’t just for summer.
Even better? Everything you need is right at your fingertips thanks to Very, they’ve got a fab selection of dresses, boots, trainers and accessories that are perfect for this transitional season.
Let’s dive in…
1. The Cosy-Luxe Look: Corduroy & Over-the-Knee Boots
Corduroy is having a real moment, and for good reason. With its soft ridged texture and vintage charm, it’s the perfect fabric for cooler days. This black corduroy mini dress is a standout in my wardrobe this autumn. It’s soft without being slouchy, structured enough to hold its shape, and those puff sleeves give it just the right amount of drama. The real charm though is in the details, a beautifully embroidered floral Peter Pan collar that brings a sweet, vintage-inspired touch to the whole look.
I’ve paired it with sheer black tights (my absolute staple for Autumn) and suede over-the-knee boots for a look that’s both stylish and practical. It’s a great choice for anything from lunch dates to weekend wanderings, put-together without trying too hard.
Extra Style Tips:
- Add a trench coat or a belted wool coat for a chic outer layer
- Accessorise with a mini crossbody bag for a pop of colour or texture (I use a harris tweed bag to pull through hints of colour)
2. Print Mix Magic: Florals Under Pinafore Perfection
If you’ve packed away your floral blouses thinking they’re only for spring, it’s time to rethink. Florals in autumn? Absolutely. Especially when you layer them under something versatile like a pinafore or sleeveless dress.
This look has that sweet-meets-smart vibe I can’t get enough of. The dress I’m wearing here is a soft corduroy style with subtle button detailing. Underneath, I’ve layered a floral blouse with long sleeves. The key here is mixing textures, cotton and cord, print and solid, soft and structured.
It’s a brilliant outfit for work-from-home days, school runs, or a coffee catch-up. Just the right balance between looking pulled together and feeling comfortable.
Style Ideas:
- Add a roll-neck instead of a blouse for extra warmth.
- Mix in autumn florals; think rust, mustard, navy or forest green prints.
- Finish with heeled boots, loafers or trainers depending on the occasion.
3. Burgundy & Burberry Vibes: Sleeveless Chic
If you’ve packed away your floral blouses thinking they’re only for spring, it’s time to rethink. Florals in autumn? Absolutely. Especially when you layer them under something versatile like a pinafore or sleeveless dress.
This look has that sweet-meets-smart vibe I can’t get enough of. The dress I’m wearing here is a soft corduroy style with subtle button detailing. Underneath, I’ve layered a floral blouse with long sleeves. The key here is mixing textures, cotton and cord, print and solid, soft and structured.
It’s a brilliant outfit for work-from-home days, school runs, or a coffee catch-up. Just the right balance between looking pulled together and feeling comfortable.
Style Ideas:
- Add a roll-neck instead of a blouse for extra warmth.
- Mix in autumn florals; think rust, mustard, navy or forest green prints.
- Finish with heeled boots, loafers or trainers depending on the occasion.
4. Denim Dress Layered with Knits & Trainers
There’s something about deep, rich tones in autumn that just feels right. This brown dress is one of those timeless staples that’s easy to style but always makes a statement. It’s sleeveless and fitted, which makes it perfect for layering under cardigans, over blouses, or even just worn solo with a scarf and tights.
I’ve styled it here for a dinner out. It’s not quite coat weather yet, so I’ve layered on a thick Burberry scarf for warmth, along with sheer tights and knee-high boots. It’s a polished but effortless look, ideal for transitional evenings when you want to stay warm but still feel dressed up.
How to Switch It Up:
- Swap the boots for neutral trainers for a more casual twist.
- Add a belt at the waist to create definition.
- Layer with a chunky knit in a tonal shade for texture-on-texture layering.
- Pair it with a long tailored coat to elevate it a little more, while keeping cosy.
5. Colour Pop Combo: Olive Green Meets Hot Pink
Last but not least, let’s talk colour. Autumn doesn’t have to be all neutrals. One of my favourite unexpected pairings this season is olive green with a bold pop of pink. This outfit stars a long, floaty olive dress paired with a slouchy white knit (turned into a crop using a belt underneath it) and finished off with a hot pink mini bag that adds a splash of fun.
The whole look feels fresh but grounded. It’s comfy enough for everyday, but the colour contrast keeps it interesting. And if you’re someone who normally shies away from brights, accessories like this pink bag are an easy entry point.
Style Inspiration:
- Pair your olive green with mustard, rust or navy for more muted combos.
- Add trainers for an everyday finish (mine are from Very and they go with everything).
- Try tucking your jumper in slightly or belting it for added shape.
Dress Styling Tips for Autumn: Quickfire Guide
Here are some easy wins to help you style any dress for autumn:
| Styling Hack | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Add a roll-neck or thermal layer | Keeps you warm and adds texture |
| Belt your dress | Defines your waist and adds shape |
| Wear boots or trainers | Practical and stylish for unpredictable weather |
| Layer with knits | Chunky cardis or jumpers add warmth and personality |
| Choose thicker tights or patterned ones | Adds interest and extra insulation |
| Play with colour | Use accessories to add contrast or mood |
Where to Shop the Looks
Everything you’ve seen in these outfits was either styled from my current wardrobe or inspired by pieces available at Very. They’ve got a wide range of options to help you build your autumn wardrobe with ease:
- Woman’s Dresses: Velvet, corduroy, denim, florals and more
- Layering tops & jumpers: Cosy knits, blouses and thermals
- Woman’s Trainers: Comfortable and chic styles for everyday
- Boots & footwear: Over-the-knee, ankle, or heeled
- Accessories: Bags, scarves, and jewellery to finish the look
Don’t Pack Away Those Dresses Just Yet
Autumn doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your dresses. With a bit of layering, the right accessories, and some fun styling tricks, they can easily take you from crisp mornings to cosy evenings without missing a beat.
So go on, shop your wardrobe, layer up, and give your favourite dresses a second life this season.
