Looking for the best maxi dresses for the transitional weather? In summer I live in sundresses and shorts. But with the season being so short, I always hate that first time I put on a pair of pants on a cooler day. So I’ve invested in a collection of maxi dresses that take me through that transitional phase between summer and fall. Here are some of my favorites this year:
Never Fully Dressed
Valentina Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress
Puffy sleeves are in, in a big way this year and this chic maxi dress gets it right. The dark color is perfect for fall but the rose print keeps things fun. And the thigh-high slit makes this a sexy option for date night. Buy it here.
ASOS Design
Tiered Smock Maxi Dress
I love the high neck on this tiered smock maxi dress. This could be worn with flats or heels for a sweet, sophisticated look, or with a Chelsea or moto boot to give the romantic feel of this dress an edge. And you can never go wrong with leopard print! Buy it here.
Never Fully Dressed
Short Sleeve Sheer Drop Hem Maxi Dress
Speaking of leopard print, this drop hem maxi dress gives a fresh look to the typical maxi silhouette. The puff sleeves and ruffle skirt makes this a great choice for date night. Since it is a bit sheer, you may want to wear it over a slip. Buy it here.
Notes Du Nord
Olivia Floral Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress
Another choice with puff sleeves … are you starting to notice a trend here? With its petite flower print and shirred bodice, wouldn’t this be the perfect dress for a fall picnic or a walk through a field of wildflowers? Buy it here.
ASOS Design
Broderie Knot Front Maxi Dress
This is a slightly different take on the maxi dress trend. The v-neck and knot front which allows a peek of skin under the bust makes this a sweet and sexy look. The gorgeous goldenrod color is the perfect hue for fall. Buy it here.
Free People
Rare Feelings Maxi Dress
Available in five different colors, this A-line floral print maxi dress has a tiered pleated skirt and button-up neckline. What’s unique about this option is that it has an adjustable tie waist so if you prefer a more fitted look, this is the dress for you! Buy it here.
Free People
Toes In The Sand Maxi Dress
Made of soft knit cotton, this is almost like a sweater dress. The dropped shoulder and bottom slit are very on-trend and the ribbed hemlines give it a beachy feel for those final days at the shore. Buy it here.
Vero Moda
Lulu Maxi Dress
This may be my favorite choice. This maxi dress by Vero Moda is perfect for a day at the office or a fancy night out with the right shoes. Think some stilettos or strappy sandals. Though it has a t-shirt silhouette, the knot detail at the waist makes it hug your curves. And the best part, it’s on sale! Buy it here.
& Other Stories
Smocked Maxi Dress
This is one of the best maxi dresses for this transitional season, floaty in beautiful pink tones with a cut that will keep you both warm and cool depending on the weather. Pair this with a structured leather jacket and boots for the ultimate autumn combo. Buy it here.
Free People
Ain’t She a Beaut Midi Dress
This dress would look amazing with that rattan bag you were sporting all summer. Though it’s called a midi dress, this look grazes the ankles. The exaggerated sleeves add some drama to the dress while the pleating and square neckline adds a unique shape. Buy it here.
Zara
Printed Dess
This autumn, it’s all about prints and layering. This dress is beautiful but can look even better with a jumper over the top. It’s the perfect shape to flatter every body type, too. Buy it here.
STAUD
Millie belted Linen-Blend Maxi Shirt Dress
I’ve never met a shirt dress that I didn’t like … and this one is so timeless. In fact it’s one of the best maxi dresses of the moment. The beige color allows your accessories to do the talking. I picture this with some statement earrings, a box purse or net bag, and some unique sunnies for a visit to the local farmer’s market on Sunday morning. Buy it here.
H&M
Steel Grey Satin Dress
The ultimate cool-girl look. A satin dress is the ultimate staple for autumn/winter, especially if we’re able to go out to any restaurants or dinners as the weather gets colder. This beautiful dress comes in a seriously flattering shade and shape, and can be dressed up or down. Buy it here.
Warehouse
Strip Twist Front Maxi Dress
While this dress does look quite summer appropriate, while the weather flits between warm and cool, you can make this beautiful striped dress autumn appropriate with a jacket or jumper over the top, black boots and a beanie hat. Buy it here.
Mango
Printed Dress
This is the best maxi dress for the turning season. Just look at the color on this beauty! If this doesn’t scream autumn, I don’t know what does. Perfect for zoom meetings, or out and about running errands. It’s stretchy, soft, and comfy with its long sleeves and loose fit. Buy it here.
Hopefully, you’ll find some options here that will delay the inevitable dive into sweaters and jeans we’ll all be doing in a few months!
By Kate Andrews
