Often, we tend to forget about the one-piece wonders as soon as temperatures start to drop, but the truth is, a humble dress (in particular, a midi) will be there for you all year round. And when it comes to autumn dresses, there are so many styles to take note of - from satin long-sleeved to the comfy knit dress. With the end of the year fast approaching, it's no surprise we're already thinking about winter outfits. So instead of just thinking about the dresses you'll want to wear now, we're thinking about the ones that'll work for the entire year, through to even the frostiest of months at the beginning of 2023. So how is these even possible? It's all thanks to clever dress details and little layering hacks.
Pick up a few of the fashion set's styling tricks - knee-high boots that disappear under the hem, thermal vests and cardigans layered under a faux-fur coat etc - and you can keep wearing your midi dresses, particularly those with long sleeves, all year round, come rain or shine.
Pink is the colour du jour, so if you invest in a pink dress, you can rest assured it will work well into next year. But if you aren’t interested in wearing a bright dress in winter, chose a neutral colour, like beige, which always seems to be a popular choice on the street style as it never fails to look effortlessly chic.
There are also plenty of dress styles to choose from, whether you prefer something slightly more pared-back or something with ruffles and puffs. So, keep scrolling to see which midi dresses we will be wearing from now until when the cold snap hits. Oh, and they're all under £50. You're welcome.
SHOP: The Best Midi Dresses Under £50
SHOP: The Best Midi Dresses Under £50
1 of 8Zara, Faux Leather Belted Dress
Leather (or faux leather) is always a wise choice at this time of year. The thicker fabric will keep you warm compared to wearing it in summer when it makes you sweaty. We're seeing this khaki midi with a pair of knee-high boots and a trench coat.
2 of 8Marks and Spencer, Pure Cotton Cord Midi Tiered Dress
Corduroy instantly feels autumnal, doesn't it? The thicker fabric feels cosy to the touch and this red smock dress is a seasonal hit. The billowing silhouette makes it easy to hide hidden layers underneath when it gets cooler.
3 of 8Nobody's Child, Selina Midi Dress
A dress cut so wearable, it comes in not one, not two but 20 colours and prints! The tiered hem is perfect for draping over a pair of knee-high boots and you could layer a roll neck underneath, too.
4 of 8Mango, Ribbed Turtleneck Dress
This neutral number is so cosy, you'll be able to wear it on its own for now and layer your tailored winter coat when the temperatures drop. We advise sticking to a creamy colour palette to keep this dress super sleek.
5 of 8H&M, Wrapover Dress
We all know a wrap dress is universally flattering, and this spotty style with puff sleeves is even more flattering. The V-neck is the perfect cut to add a high-neck top underneath or hidden tights, too.
6 of 8Monki, Grey Long Knitted Cardigan Dress
A cardigan worn as a dress is the ultimate winter warmer. We would wear this over a white T-shirt with flat tall boots and add a scarf when the temperatures plummet.
7 of 8Warehouse, Petite Floral Print Roll Neck Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Perfect for petites, this high neck midi is a graphic '60s print is perfection. You could easily throw on a knit vest or a faux shearling jacket with chunky boots.
8 of 8New Look, Black Animal Print Jersey Tie Front Midi Dress
Going out in winter can put you off, but this long-sleeved midi dress will make you want to go out after-dark. Wear with a faux fur coat to make it feel fancy.