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 21 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.
A New Day Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress
The Under-$30 Option
You can't go wrong with a classic midi knit dress for fall and this under $30 option comes in four colors and features a versatile rib texture.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 49 reviews on Target.com
What They're Saying: "I love how comfy this is! I just wear it with short boots and it looks so nice! I like that it’s a mix between loose and form-fitting. It gives a nice shape if you size down but it’s not uncomfortably tight." - mheet, Target reviewer
Shop Target
A New Day Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress, $, available at Target
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: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 27 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
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BB Dakota Knit The Scene Long Sleeve Sweater Dress, $, available at Nordstrom
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; 244 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
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Max Studio Elbow Length Sleeve Print Tiered Maxi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Pact Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress
The No Brainer
Get into the fall swing this season in this super-wearable cable knit dress that's made from 100% organic cotton.
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 128 reviews on Wearpact.com
What They’re Saying: “This dress is more than expected. Heavy enough to be substantial, light enough to be comfortable and flattering - and all with organic cotton? COME ON! It's perfect. I will wear it every week this winter.” — O.F., Pact reviewer
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PACT Classic Cable Knit Sweater Dress, $, available at PACT
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; 162 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
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: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 94 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
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; 157 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: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 111 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
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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: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 24 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: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 12 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; 24 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
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; 130 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
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: 4.1 out of 5 stars; 22 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; 19 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 out of 5 stars; 21 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 All Yours Tank Dress
The Back-To-Work Look
This breathable midi 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: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 81 reviews on lululemon.com
What They’re Saying: “This dress is great for work and casual wear. The cut is flattering and the fabric is a little thicker. I think the dress will be great with a shirt or cardigan for fall.." — MichelleInMadison, lululemon reviewer
Shop lululemon
Lululemon All Yours Tank Maxi Dress, $, available at Lululemon
Topshop Floral Tie Front 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 long sleeve mini dress, for example, has sweet tie details and the jewel tone hue is 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 Textured Floral Tie Front 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; 117 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.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 20 reviews on Walmart.com
What They’re Saying: “Heavy weight with a great deal of stretch. You can probably go down a size due to the thickness of the yarn and the amount of stretch. It's so plush and thick you won't need a coat. It fits great, order your size if you want a true fit which hugs your curves loosely, go down a size or two if you want it shorter and snug.."— Chelon P., Eloquii reviewer
Shop Eloquii
Eloquii Novelty Stretch Cardigan Sweater Dress, $, available at Eloquii
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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