It's that time of year again when the weather just can't make up its mind. From heavy downpours and chilly winds, the months between autumn and winter are the most challenging to dress for.
Finding those timeless transitional pieces that work for every season is key for this time of year – and we're starting with dresses. The easiest way to build up a capsule collection is to find the kinds of dresses that are versatile enough to wear with trainers but can be layered with long coats and boots during the cold weather.
- Best for daywear: River Island Abstract Print Dress
- Best for evening wear: M&S Jersey Textured Midaxi Dress
- Best mini dress: H&M Knitted Dress
- Best printed dress: Nobody's Child Audrey Polka Dot Midi Dress
How to style a transitional dress
The perfect transitional dress will look just as stylish with knee-high boots and leather jackets as your go-to white trainers. Browns, reds, and other dark neutrals are versatile for between-season dressing, but florals and statement prints can still pair well with your accessories.
How I chose the best transitional dresses for summer to autumn
- Variety: From slinky evening dresses to printed daywear styles, I've picked out dresses suitable for every occasion, and all of them will work well with just about everything in your wardrobe.
- Price: Building a capsule wardrobe doesn't need to break the bank, which is why I've selected dresses at a range of price points, starting from as little as £30.
- Trending: While plenty of dresses on the list are on-trend right now, I've been sure to select timeless pieces that will see you through the new season and beyond.
1/8
M&S Jersey Printed Skater Midi Dress
© M&S- Sizes: 6-24
- Colours: Black
Editor's Note: "M&S's printed midi dress is so flattering with its figure-skimming cut that falls into a relaxed skirt. Complete with fitted sleeves and mesh detailing, it's one you'll want to wear for every occasion during autumn. I'd recommend styling it with leather knee-high boots and chunky gold jewellery for a chic finish."
2/8
Nobody's Child Audrey Polka Dot Midi Dress
© Nobody's Child- Sizes: 4-18
- Colours: Black
Editor's Note: "Polka dots are a timeless trend suitable for every season, and this black Nobody's Child number is one you'll buy now and wear and all year round. It has a relaxed skirt, with a square neckline that's framed by a vintage-style white trim. The midi would look just as stylish paired with strappy heels as it would with chunky biker boots."
3/8
H&M Knitted Mini Dress
© H&M- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colours: Black, White
Editor's Note: "Mini dresses go hand in hand with transitional dressing, as they can be worn alone or easily layered with tights and jumpers on cooler days. H&M's knitted mini has a sleeveless design, with a round neckline and delicate gold buttons that would perfectly complement gold jewellery. I'd recommend choosing white socks and a pair of loafers for a preppy workwear look, or opt for trainers and a chunky cardigan for a more laid-back finish."
4/8
Mint Velvet Textured Midi Dress
© Mint Velvet- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colours: Ivory
Editor's Note: "Mint Velvet's gorgeous cream midi is at the top of my wishlist. It has a high neckline, capped sleeves, and an A-line skirt that pulls in the waist with its gathered detailing. The textured finish looks cosy for autumn while still being lightweight, and I'll be wearing mine with black buckle flats or trainers."
5/8
ASOS Boat Neck Mini Dress
© ASOS- Sizes: 4-18
- Colours: Black
Editor's Note: "Boat necklines are everywhere right now, and ASOS's black boat neck mini can be worn in so many ways. Whether you're teaming it with red heels and a matching clutch for night's out or opting for tights and boots along with an oversized jumper, the wearable mini will be a firm staple in any capsule wardrobe."
6/8
New Look Stripe Mesh Midi Dress
© New Look- Sizes: 6-22
- Colours: Brown
Editor's Note: "Zebra prints are set to be a top trend for the new season. New Look's slinky brown midi has a mesh design that would look great styled with heeled boots, while the statement print is ideal for day-to-night dressing. Black shoes and a matching crossbody would perfectly elevate the look."
7/8
Reformation Mayve Knit Dress
© Reformation- Sizes: 4-16
- Colours: Blue, Black, White
Editor's Note: "If you're looking for a dress to repeat-wear throughout the year, Reformation's black mini dress may be worth the investment. It has a boat neckline with an A-line skirt, and it's the ultimate LBD for day-to-night. Style it with an oversized bomber jacket and knee-high boots for a chic autumn ensemble."
8/8
River Island Abstract Leopard Bodycon Dress
© River Island- Sizes: 6-18
- Colours: Brown
Editor's Note: "When it comes to transitional occasion dressing, River Island's brown maxi is the one. It has a boat neckline and long sleeves, finished with an abstract leopard print that would look beyond stylish with a pair of neutral heels and delicate jewellery."
