The fall is officially here, which means cue the pumpkin-spiced everything, leafy retreats to log cabins , and of course, cozy knits. But if...

The Best Fall Dresses, According To Shoppers Who Bought Them

The fall is officially here, which means cue the pumpkin-spiced everything, leafy retreats to log cabins, and of course, cozy knits. But if you thought the end of summer also meant the end of the dress, let us remind you that there are a number of fabulous fall frocks just waiting to be paired with your favorite pair of autumn-ready chunky loafers. But which one to pick?

While there are some fall dress trends you can count on to make a comeback as soon as temperatures start to drop (we're talking sleeves, plaid, and sweater-inspired styles), others are more of the minute, like smocked bodices and cardigans that can double as a dress. Whether you want to go classic or cheeky, sleek or simple, fancy or fun, we turned to shoppers themselves to help us find the top picks for the season ahead. They've left ratings and reviews across the best-selling styles from all our go-to retailers, like Madewell, Anthropologie, Free People, and beyond. We've followed the proverbial bread crumbs in order to round up 20 of the best fall dresses on the internet right now.

Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress


The Cashmere Choice

There's one word that immediately comes to mind when we hear the phrase "sweater weather": cashmere. This turtleneck dress by the brand Quince — known for high-quality basics at radically low prices — is both flattering and comfortable, and it's made from the softest Grade A cashmere to make your autumn attire dreams come true.

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 140 reviews on OneQuince.com

What They’re Saying: “So soft, warm. Great fit. Perfect density. Dress up or down. I’ll buy in another color soon. Oh… and an awesome price.” — Gretchen K., Quince reviewer

Shop Quince

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress, $, available at Quince

Jenni Kayne Everyday Kate Sweater Dress


The Maxi

Despite its name, this Jenni Kayne number is not your average sweater dress. Its ankle-skimming silhouette makes for a warm and luxurious staple item that you'll never want to change out of.

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 4 reviews on JenniKayne.com

What They’re Saying: “I am obsessed with this dress!! I received so many compliments wearing it to work today, and felt pulled together and beautiful, while also staying extremely warm and comfy. It's the perfect thickness, and fit wonderfully under a jacket. I am already looking at buying it in more colors to add to my wardrobe!” — Shaya R., Jenni Kayne reviewer

Shop Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne Everyday Kate Sweater Dress, $, available at Jenni Kayne

Gentle Herd Mesh Overlay Maxi Dress


The Mesh Dress

Crafted from the dreamiest of materials, this sleek dress hits the style trifecta: soft, sophisticated, seasonless.

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 106 reviews on GentleHerd.com

What They’re Saying: “So happy with this purchase. Item as described. Great quality & fast delivery.” — Athena Toynbee, Gentle Herd reviewer

Shop Gentle Herd

Gentle Herd Mesh Overlay Maxi Dress, $, available at Gentle Herd

AFRM Assi Dress


The Wedding Guest Dress

Open back, waist cut-outs, and a satin finish are the fixings for a seriously fashion-forward fall dress. Even so, this is one style that you can feel confident in as you step outside of your sartorial comfort zone and into any chic setting.

The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars; 16 reviews on Revolve.com

What They’re Saying: “This dress is everything!!! The top has clasps so you can adjust it to be less revealing. The material is so soft and stretchy and comfortable. Bought this to wear to weddings and I can't wait!” — Anonymous, Revolve reviewer

Shop Revolve

AFRM Assi Dress, $, available at Revolve

Anthropologie Space-Dyed Knit Midi Dress


The Knit Pick

Why settle for just one color when you could have them all? Slip into this space-dyed knit dress for an effortlessly stylish, technicolor fall.

The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 7 reviews on Anthropologie.com

What They’re Saying: “LOVE. This dress is gorgeous on! Super flattering.Highly recommend!” — Anonymous, Anthropologie reviewer

Shop Anthropologie


Anthropologie Space-Dyed Knit Midi Dress, $, available at Anthropologie

Universal Standard Foundation Turtleneck Dress


The Fitted Pick

This sleek turtleneck dress is made from a fine-ribbed, super-smooth fabric that looks fabulous on its own or layered with another piece. And considering Universal Standard is the champion of size inclusivity, it's a flattering fall style almost anyone can rock.

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 23 reviews on Universalstandard.com

What They’re Saying: “Soft and fitted, this dress hugged me without strangling my body... Versatile, soft, not too warm...it's perfect for wearing in San Francisco, my hometown!” — Lorraine C., Universal Standard reviewer

Shop Universal Standard

Universal Standard Foundation Long Sleeve Turtleneck Dress, $, available at Universal Standard

Pact Revive Swing Dress


The No Brainer

Get into the swing of fashion things this season in this super-wearable dress that's made from 100% organic cotton.

The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars; 41 reviews on Wearpact.com

What They’re Saying: “No-brainer appeal. Cute, comfortable, and one-and-done. My kind of clothing! Plus, I love that this dress really does have swing.” — Margaret M., Pact reviewer

Shop Pact

PACT Revive Swing Dress, $, available at PACT

BB Dakota Knit The Scene Dress


The Sweater Dress

Nothing says fall like a classic long-sleeve sweater dress and this cozy, ribbed style has left many a Nordstrom shopper pleased with their pick.

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 24 reviews on Nordstrom.com

What They’re Saying: “Amazing fall dress. This is my new favorite fall article of clothing. I would buy it in every color if they weren’t sold out.” — Ocnordstomlover, Nordstrom reviewer

Shop Nordstrom

BB Dakota Knit The Scene Long Sleeve Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom

Free People Edie Dress


The Goddess Dress

With a little bit of boho and a lot of plaid, this maxi dress mixes up all the top trends with an ethereal silhouette to boot.

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 123 reviews on FreePeople.com

What They’re Saying: “Love everything about this dress…especially all of the compliments I get when wearing. I have the white and just purchased the brown. Literally have never worn it and not be told how amazing it is. Will make you feel like the goddess you should feel like. I am 5’8” and about 160lbs - purchased large and medium love how both fit and have styled for every season of the year with flip flops and knee boots you can’t go wrong with this dress!” — MrsDenham, Free People reviewer

Shop Free People

Free People Edie Dress, $, available at Free People

H&M Collared Sweatshirt Dress


The Keeping-It-Casual Choice

Think your favorite cozy sweatshirt... but make it a dress. This H&M style is made from a soft cotton-blend fabric and features polished embellishments like a high collar and cuffed sleeves so even if you feel like you're in loungewear, you won't look like you are.

The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 21 reviews on hm.com

What They're Saying: "Perfect over leggings on a chilly day!! Very soft fabric feels like you're wearing a cloud."

Shop H&M

H&M Collared Sweatshirt Dress, $, available at H&M

UO River Smocked Mini Dress


The All-Occasions Option

This textured, square-neck mini dress may incorporate all of the buzziest dress trends at once (smocked bodice, tiered silhouette, puff sleeves), but when combined, you end up with a surprisingly versatile style.

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 11 reviews on Urbanoutfitters.com

What They’re Saying: “WORTH IT. I bought this just to get options for special occasions dresses... Turns out to be one of my all-time favorite dress. So simple but beautiful!” — liyah1, Urban Outfitters reviewer

Shop Urban Outfitters

UO River Smocked Long Sleeve Mini Dress, $, available at Urban Outfiiters

Everlane The Tiered Mockneck Dress


The Transitional Trend Piece

Tiered dresses have been all the rage throughout the warmer months of this year, and Everlane's latest take features the necessary prints and fabric to transition the style into the fall. As one reviewer put it, the dress works best when paired with a fall-friendly pair of mules or loafers.

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 10 reviews on Everlane.com

What They’re Saying: “Myyyy Ohhhh Myyyy: This dress is absolutely flattering. I knew I had to have it once I tried it on in-store and another customer saw it on me and shouted 'WOOOOW that looks beautiful on you.' It's super comfy and stylish. I actually had to size down since it runs larger. I plan to wear it this fall with my 1 of my Tory Burch flats. I cannot wait. This dress is a must-have yall."— Tujuana Monae, Everlane reviewer

Shop Everlane


Everlane The Tiered Mockneck Dress, $, available at Everlane

Nine West Flounce Sweatshirt Dress


The Under-$50 Option

If you want to upgrade your fall attire without causing strain on your wallet, consider this affordable pick from Kohl's — a modern take on the good ol' fashioned sweater dress.

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 4 reviews on Kohls.com

Shop Kohls

Nine West Flounce Sweatshirt Dress, $, available at Kohl's

Madewell Lucie Elbow-Sleeve Smocked Midi Dress


The Cottagecore Choice

All those English countryside ensembles that resulted from the nap dress phenomenon aren't going anywhere... at least not any time soon. If you're late to the trend, consider scooping up Madewell's best-selling iteration in a fall-friendly gingham print.

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 5 reviews on Madewell.com

What They’re Saying: “This dress is perfect! I hoped to purchase the blue daisy print but it was backordered until November and I’m happy it is because this print is perfect for Fall. Drapes perfectly, material is amazing, super-flattering style. Love love love it!"— Heathl, Madewell reviewer

Shop Madewell

Madewell Lucie Elbow-Sleeve Smocked Midi Dress in Gingham, $, available at Madewell

lululemon Back in Action Long Sleeve Dress


The Back-To-Work Look

This long sleeve, breathable dress is made to move when you move — whenever, wherever — making it a popular pick for getting back out into the world after life on lockdown.

The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars; 41 reviews on lululemon.com

What They’re Saying: “I need it in every color. This is perfect for transitioning back into work gear! So comfortable, very flattering neckline, with long-sleeves that are perfect for the office."— ElizaGonzalez, lululemon reviewer

Shop lululemon

Lululemon Back in Action Long Sleeve Dress, $, available at Lululemon

Toad&Co. Rosalinda Dress


The Buy-It-In-Every-Color Dress

This stretchy v-neck dress is as flattering as it is comfortable, which is why it comes as no surprise that shoppers have scooped it up in multiple colors (it's available in nine different prints).

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 138 reviews on toadandco.com

What They’re Saying: “For me, the Rosalinda Dress is perfection. I love it so much, I own several, in different prints. Beautiful, flattering, comfortable, excellent quality, travels and washes well. I love the simplicity of just putting on this dress and going out into the world feeling and looking great."— Ann L., Toad&Co. reviewer

Shop Toad&Co.

Toad&Co Rosalinda Dress, $, available at Toad&Co

Max Studio Print Tiered Maxi Dress


The Compliment Magnet

According to a number of reviewers (mind you, there are over 200 of them in total), this dress is exactly what you need of you want to turn heads this autumn. One happy shopper even attests to it being prettier than its photo.

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 240 reviews on Nordstromrack.com

What They’re Saying: “Prettier in person! It’s a great all seasons piece, I plan on wearing it with boots and a sweater now and sandals later on."— Meg S, Nordstrom Rack reviewer

Shop Nordstrom Rack

Max Studio Elbow Length Sleeve Print Tiered Maxi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack

Topshop Faux Leather Extreme Mini Dress


The Major Mini

Topshop may officially have a new cyber home on asos.com, but its fashion offerings this season are trendy as ever. This high-neck mini dress, for example, has a smooth faux-leather finish that's very fun for fall.

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 7 reviews on asos.com

What They’re Saying: “LOOKS REALLY EXPENSIVE! So happy with this! It looks like leather! So many compliments!!" — Anonymous, asos reviewer

Shop asos.com

Topshop Faux Leather Extreme Mini Dress, $, available at ASOS

JTangoParadiseShop Button Front Mixed Media Dress


The Season-less Style

Take your shirt dress game to new heights (and lengths) with this extra-long, high-quality style on Etsy featuring a contrast of solid navy and blue and white striped fabrics and — you guess it — pockets. Wear it over tights and under a chunky knit for the fall and then drop those layers like it's hot when spring rolls around.

The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 93 reviews on Etsy.com

What They’re Saying: “This is the perfect dress, for summer or otherwise - a long-sleeved long dress is just what I have been looking for and I couldn't be more pleased! Fantastic quality and wrapped with such care and precision. My order even came with little extra goodies and a coupon! I am thrilled and can't wait to buy from this lovely shop again!"— Hope, Etsy reviewer

Shop Esty

JTangoParadiseShop Button Front Mixed Media Dress, $, available at Etsy

JTangoParadiseShop Button Front Mixed Media Dress


The Season-less Style

Take your shirt dress game to new heights (and lengths) with this extra-long, high-quality style on Etsy featuring a contrast of solid navy and blue and white striped fabrics and — you guess it — pockets. Wear it over tights and under a chunky knit for the fall and then drop those layers like it's hot when spring rolls around.

The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 93 reviews on Etsy.com

What They’re Saying: “This is the perfect dress, for summer or otherwise - a long-sleeved long dress is just what I have been looking for and I couldn't be more pleased! Fantastic quality and wrapped with such care and precision. My order even came with little extra goodies and a coupon! I am thrilled and can't wait to buy from this lovely shop again!"— Hope, Etsy reviewer

Shop Esty


JTangoParadiseShop Button Front Mixed Media Dress, $, available at Etsy

Eloquii Elements Striped Cardigan Sweater Dress


The Dress For The Cardigan Obsessed

If you still can't get enough of the cardigan trend for cooler temperatures (thank you, Harry Styles), this wear-it-both-ways sweater dress is for you (and it's only $35!).

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 3 reviews on Walmart.com

What They’re Saying: “This is so so so cute and works perfectly. I got a ton of compliments from my coworkers. Felt really soft against my skin and the fit was spot on. If it came in another color I would buy it."— Muffen, Walmart reviewer

Shop Walmart

Eloquii Elements Striped Cardigan Sweater Dress, $, available at Walmart

AFRM Shailene Midi Dress


The Comfortably Out-Of-Your-Comfort-Zone Style

Leopard print, sheer mesh fabric, and cheeky thumbholes are the fixings for a seriously fashion-forward fall dress. Even so, this is one style that you can feel confident in as you step outside of your sartorial comfort zone.

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 17 reviews on Revolve.com

What They’re Saying: “This is the BEST . I wasn't sure at all at first because I thought the material would be too fine and it looked a bit tricky to put on with the straps and armholes, I got it wrong a couple of times! Once I'd got it properly on however I fell in love. This dress is incredible - hugs every curve without being too tight or showy. Can't wait to style it with oxfords or heels/boots and a leather jacket for Fall evenings out. For sizing, I'm 5'11 and 185 lbs and DD's and I went with the medium based on reviews and it fits great, I think the large would have been too big! A great buy, especially for the price!" — Anonymous, Revolve reviewer

Shop Revolve


AFRM Shailene Midi Dress, $, available at Revolve

Norma Kamali Long Sleeve Crew Dress To Knee


The LBD

Because you simply can't go wrong with a little black dress — or anything Norma Kamali — reviewers agree that this knee-length crew dress is a pretty solid pick for fall.

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 17 reviews on Zappos.com

What They’re Saying: “This dress is a favorite - perfect LBD! It is the typical Norma Kamali slinky fabric that is slightly heavy, but it is still quite breathable in warmer weather. It travels well - take it out of your suitcase, shake it, hang it up and any wrinkles will fall right out. Great with everything from a cardi and flats or denim jacket and wedges by day to stiletto sandals and a statement necklace for a night out!" — JennyCate, Zappos reviewer

Shop Zappos


Norma Kamali Long Sleeve Crew Dress To Knee, $, available at Zappos

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