How to Style A Summer Dress for Fall

When I add a new piece of clothing to my closet I consider the versatility of the apparel first. Can I wear it for more than one season? Is the color versatile to style with other prints already in my closet? Can I dress it up for evening events as well as throw it on for a day running around with the kids?

One type of dress that fits the above criteria is a maxi dress. Beyond versatility, it’s flattering and comfortable to wear. It’s also one of my favorite pieces to transition from hot summer to crisp fall days.

Here are two ways to extend the life of your summer maxi dress into fall:

Kimono-Style Maxi Dress with Jeans

Pair a wrap-style maxi dress, like this Emma White Multi Floral Maxi Dress from Tobi* (currently sold out, but here is a similar style from Tobi) with a pair of fringed denim and a block heel sandal or bootie. A flowy maxi dress adds a feminine touch to a casual jean. If you’re a mom of little ones like me, wearing pants under your dress is also out of necessity!

Slip Dress Maxi with Casual Layers

Pair a breezy slip-style maxi dress, like Imagine This Mauve Maxi Dress from Tobi* with casual fall layers like a thin turtleneck (like this one I’m wearing from Amazon Fashion) and a cozy bomber-style jacket. Add a pair of sneakers or dress up with a block heel or flat mule shoe and a fun handbag (like my favorite vintage Fendi handbag I purchased in Italy fourteen years ago – more about that another day!)

Also, don’t be too quick to pack away your shorter summer dresses. Pair jeans and a colorful boot with a shift dress (like this Plunging Shift Dress from Tobi*) to extend the life of your little summer frocks.