How To Style Summer Dresses For Autumn
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12 hours ago
Beat the transitional wardrobe dilemma
Not ready to let your favourite summer essentials go? Well, you don’t have to. While the autumn chill is settling in across the UK, there are still plenty of ways to make the most of your summer dresses this season.
The Country & Town House Responsible Buyers’ Guide
5 Tips For Styling Summer Dresses In Autumn
1. Layering Is The First Step
Your biggest enemy this season? The weather. If you plan on keeping your summer dresses in rotation this autumn, you’ll need to make sure you’re layered up. ‘Layering is key, particularly with a turtleneck top underneath a dress which will keep you cosy while staying chic,’ says Jessica Rae Long, Creative Stylist at M&S. ‘If turtlenecks aren’t for you, a chunky cardigan or jumper would also provide warmth, as well as break up the outfit by adding interesting textures together.
‘You can pair the bright colours of your summer dresses to more neutral tones to keep the outfit cohesive, or go all out and have a vibrant autumn/winter palette.’
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3. Tights For Texture
Statement tights are having a moment this season – and autumn is perfect for taking the trend a step further. ‘Pairing your dress with tights under it is not only great for layering, but you can also introduce a pop of colour or texture to your outfit,’ emphasises Jessica. ‘Adding fishnet tights to a summer dress will allow for a more playful take on your look, while also allowing you to wear a shorter style dress in the cooler months without sacrificing comfort or warmth.’
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3. Swap Sandals For Boots
When it comes down to it, shoes really do set the tone for an outfit. ‘Swapping out your sandals and incorporating boots to your wardrobe is a great way to transition into the cooler seasons while also adding some edge to your look,’ confirms Jessica. ‘With so many interesting styles and textures to choose from, you can pair any dress with a pair of boots.’
‘Suede boots add softness and texture, making it perfect for a more casual look, whereas leather or heeled boots can give a sleeker, more polished appearance,’ she continues. ‘Try pairing knee-high boots with a dress that has a slit for a peekaboo effect, which adds a bit of edge while keeping you warm.’
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4. Invest In A Trench
You can also team up a summer dress with a trench coat; this capsule wardrobe staple works all year round, making it perfect for the transition to autumn. ‘Investing in a good longline, leather or trench coat is not only practical but is also a staple in everyone’s winter wardrobe rotation,’ says Jessica. ‘Longline and trench coats are classic and will keep in line perfectly with the flow of a summer dress, while also keeping you nice and warm.
‘Getting a long coat in a classic colour such as camel, black or even navy will compliment most summer dresses as they won’t draw attention away,’ she adds. ‘But again, a bold print or colour can add a modern and striking twist, and by belting your coat up you can create a flattering silhouette over any dress. Alternatively, investing in a leather jacket will provide warmth, but also allow for an edgier look.’
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5. Accessories Seal The Deal
And then there’s the finishing touches. ‘Accessorising is a must with any outfit, no matter if its summer or winter,’ highlights Jessica. ‘Add a large scarf or cute woolly hat to keep you warm, as well as adding some fun patterns and colours. Buying quality winter accessories such as wool or cashmere will be beneficial to you during the colder weather, as well as bringing you a luxury look.’
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Featured image: AW24 Copenhagen Fashion Week Streetstyle (c) Noor-u-Nisa
