Long sleeves and thick fabrics define the best fall dresses
Designers prioritize warmth with maxi lengths and cable knits in the top picks for the season.
By Julia Novak ·
Dresses often lose their appeal as temperatures drop, but the right fabric and cut can keep them viable for autumn. Experts identify long sleeves and heavier materials as the key features that make these garments functional for the season. Maxi lengths also rank highly because the extra fabric provides additional coverage against the cold.
One standout option is a simple long-sleeve dress made from a stretchy spandex blend. It includes pleats at the waist to create a flattering fit for long work or school days. The design features a scoop neck and side pockets for practicality. Another top pick is a chunky cable knit sweater dress that hugs the body. It offers a shawl collar with button details and comes in 17 different colors.
For those preferring a looser fit, a three-quarter-sleeve maxi dress provides ample coverage. It is made of a breathable polyester that resists wrinkles and does not require a slip. A self-tie belt helps define the waist. A basic black cable-knit sweater dress serves well for office wear. It features a V-neckline and full-length lantern sleeves to keep the arms warm.
Several other styles focus on versatility. A figure-flattering dress made from a polyester blend is available in 15 colors and resists wrinkling. A casual sweatshirt dress with a henley neck offers comfort without excessive weight. It is available in solid colors and crew neck variations. A shorter dress uses thick, high-quality fabric to retain heat. It features batwing sleeves and an adjustable surplice neckline that can be worn off the shoulder.
A long-sleeve maxi dress made from a rayon and spandex blend offers comfort and ease. It includes two front pockets and can be styled for casual or formal events. This specific style is available in more than 24 color and pattern options. Prices for these items reflect the time of publication and may change. BestReviews, which partners with the newspaper, notes that it spends thousands of hours testing products to make these recommendations.
