17 Best Fall Dresses of 2024

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Slip on and go

The best fall dresses take the hassle out of putting together an elevated look that’ll carry you from the office to dinner. Slip on and you’re ready to go.

If you’re looking for easy styling tips, start by swapping your ballet flats for a leather boot, a corduroy blazer, or even a rugby shirt layered on top. Personally, I’m most looking forward to test-driving a minidress styled with coordinated tights, as seen on the Fall/Winter 2024 runway at Miu Miu, or embracing the return of bohemian flair courtesy of labels like Chloé and Etro. Pay close attention to paisley prints in particular, they are on my radar this fall and about to have a resurgence.

Last season was all about showing off skin and embracing lightweight fabrics, fall is about a rich palette of chocolate browns and burgundies, creative layering with coats, and textures that feel warm and blanket-like against the skin.

Ahead, you’ll find a range of fall dress styles—from office-appropriate silhouettes to elegant options well suited for the next batch of weddings or other special evening soirées. Each was selected based on reviews, editor recommendations, and overall wearability to help you hone in on the best of the best. No matter when you’re shopping for the perfect fall dress, you’ll find one that suits your needs and style.

Boho is back, and a pattern like an oversize paisley is an easy way to embrace the trend in a modern way that doesn’t feel costumey or kitschy.

Sizes: 2–14

Colors: Blue and brown

As a semiprofessional Hill House dress collector, I think this may be the label’s best sweater dress to date. The sweeping scoop neckline and blouson sleeves are pretty and polished, while the wool-blend fabrication guarantees a cozy and comfortable day wearing it. I’m envisioning myself wearing it with a long black hair ribbon and Miu Miu flats for a balletic moment, but the minimal design could go in all sorts of aesthetic directions.

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Colors: Gray, black

I always look to J.Crew for affordable workwear options, and this dress instantly caught my eye as a must-have for fall. The sleeveless turtleneck design is great for layering under a sweater.

What reviewers say: “I love this dress! It feels casual and comfy but has a classy look. I wore this with a blazer to a Board meeting, and it looked so fabulous. I’ve worn it with just by itself with flats--and it just gives off a Audrey Hepburn vibe.”

Sizes: XS–3XL

Colors: White, black, brown

Darting and a defined waistline add a sleek shape to this shirtdress made of 100 percent cotton. I’d suggest styling it with a belt and a bold necklace to take the look to the next level.

What reviewers say: “Seriously the most flattering shirt dress I’ve encountered in a very long time. Great length, lightweight, and is slightly fitted through the chest. Definitely size up if you’re a larger cup size.”

Sizes: XS–XL

Colors: Blue stripe, white stripe

Toteme’s drape-detail sweaterdress is a way to embrace heavier knit fabrics without them feeling too bulky or loose and losing the shape of your body underneath. Pair with pumps for a killer business look.

Sizes: XS–L

Colors: Gray

Carry your romance with hazy summer days into the fall with Dôen's whimsical maxi dress. Crafted from a soft cotton-rayon blend covered in dainty florals, it pairs especially well with over-the-knee boots and warm knits.

Sizes: XS–XL

Colors: Black

With its sleek boatneck and tailored silhouette drawing from the best of power of suiting, this dress can work and play even harder.

Sizes: 0-14

Colors: Black

It's all in the details. At first glance, Tolu Coker's midi dress presents itself as classic workwear but the cutouts along the hips and back along with the asymmetrical peplum skirt add an unexpected edge. Wear under a blazer during the day, shed the layer and let the dress really shine before cocktails.

Sizes: XS-L

Colors: Gray

For those mornings when you're running on caffeine and adrenaline, skip the "what to wear" meltdown and slip into this 2-in-1 dress.

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: Mixed

With its trademark cozy shape, complete with a generous turtleneck and drop sleeves, the quintessential sweater dress is still a top contender for fall dressing.

What reviewers say: "Such a beautiful warm comfortable sweater dress. Great length for taller humans!"

Sizes: 2XS-XL

Colors: Light birch, black, flambeau red, and five more

Fashion isn't always practical and when it is, it can run the risk of losing all excitement. COS continues to hit the sweet spot, releasing extremely chic basics that are made for the woman who needs to get things done. This knit maxi dress, featuring a sleek, built-in scarf—perfect for wrapping around as the wind started to kick up—is an excellent example.

Sizes: XS-L

Colors: Navy, blue

Appropriately named, the Itsy minidress is a swinging homage to 60s coquettish flare. Pair with knee-high boots and trendy East-West bag.

Sizes: 0-12

Colors: Espresso, black

Denim in the fall is a no-brainer but we'd suggesting breaking up your rotation of baggy pants and slimming capris by throwing this calf-skimming dress into the mix.

Sizes: 00-16

Colors: Pellson Wash

Simkhai's drop waist Kenlie dress is proof that the contrast of laying black and white remains undefeated.

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: Black/white

It may be cooling down but that doesn't mean you have to exclusively wear knits into the new year. Opt for a heavyweight jersey with metal-detailing for a curve-hugging look that is sensuous and cold-weather proof.

Sizes: 2-14

Colors: Espresso

Simple yet elevated, this chocolate brown silk slip, featuring neck tie and discreet slit at the back, is perfect for all the fall soirees starting to line up your calendar.

Sizes: 2XS-2XL

Colors: Chocolate brown ganache

With a subtle slit to show off your favorite boot and a flattering polo neck in contrast trim, Mango's oversized maxi dress will carry you through the season with flying marks.

Sizes: 2-10

Colors: Black, burgundy

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

Aemilia Madden is a freelance writer, editor, and consultant with over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry. She’s written for publications including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, W, and Fashionista. Previously, she was the senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report. In her time away from the internet, Aemilia is probably out on a hike.

Michella Oré is the fashion commerce editor at Harper's Bazaar. Previously, she was the style commerce writer at GQ and associate producer at Vogue. Her writing has been published in i-D, 10 Magazine, and WWD.

17 Fair Isle Sweaters to Shop Now

The Best Designer Tote Bags to Shop Now

20 Fall Outfit Ideas to Steal From Street Style

22 Matching Workout Sets for Every Type of Workout

14 Suit Sets That Aren’t Just for the Office

The Best Fall Sweaters to Shop Right Now

You’ll Always Wear These 14 Black Turtlenecks

Chocolate Brown Is Fall’s Breakout Color Trend

The Perfect Fall Knit Is a Barely-There Cardigan

10 Must-Have Tights to Transform Your Wardrobe

The Easiest Way to Wear Polka Dots This Fall

15 Comfortable Sneakers to Wear All Day, Every Day