These Are the Fall Dresses I’m Shopping as a Fashion Editor

street style berlin september, 2021
I’m Obsessed With These Fall DressesJeremy Moeller - Getty Images


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People tend to look at me in shock when I say that I cannot wait for summer to be over and for fall to begin. Besides my favorite national holiday birthday being smack dab in the middle of the season, all of the cozy indoor vibes, and how pretty it is to be frolicking outside as the leaves change, I look forward to autumn because I get to wear the best fall dresses. The mere thought of all the dress and boot combos I can create makes me swoon.

Arguably, autumn is the best season for fashion. From clothing to bags and jewelry, the season’s trends prove time and time again that it’s the superior season to serve looks. There are so many styles to look forward to: You can go for both light and heavy textures, layer up, or not. Plus, there are so many cute and affordable (!) finds to upgrade your ’fits. Aaand you can get more creative with your work outfits too. See for yourself!

Our top picks for cute fall dresses in 2024:

Convinced you need to amp up your fall fashion game? Give your wardrobe a refresh with this list of fab dresses from places like Madewell, Zara, Abercrombie, Reformation, and so much more. Come on, you know you want to...

Harleen Elastic Fit & Flare Midi Dress

You'll find yourself wearing this flowy beaut a whole lot. The cut-out and back details are too cute to just wear once!

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lovebonito.com%2Fus%2Fharleen-elastic-fit-flare-midi-dress.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Harleen Elastic Fit & Flare Midi Dress</p><p>lovebonito.com</p><p>$40.00</p>

HomeStretch™ Squareneck Mini Dress

Mini dress season is never over! This simple, squareneck option is proof of that.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aritzia.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fproduct%2Fhomestretch%25E2%2584%25A2-squareneck-mini-dress%2F121034.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>HomeStretch™ Squareneck Mini Dress</p><p>aritzia.com</p><p>$68.00</p>

Caro Midi Dress - One Shoulder Tiered Dress in Multi Floral

Get into this multi-floral dress! The tiered look and cut-out on this print make the aesthetic so romantic.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.showpo.com%2Fus%2Fcaro-one-shoulder-tiered-mini-dress-in-multi-floral.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Caro Midi Dress - One Shoulder Tiered Dress in Multi Floral</p><p>showpo.com</p><p>$79.95</p>

Crinkled Jersey Dress

Need something quick to slip into? How about a crinkled jersey dress?

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.hm.com%2Fen_us%2Fproductpage.1164787007.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Crinkled Jersey Dress</p><p>hm.com</p><p>$17.99</p>

Denim V-Neck Midi Dress in Handlon Wash

A denim dress will do ya good in all seasons. This midi version in a dark wash will elevate your work closet.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.madewell.com%2Fp%2Fwomens%2Fclothing%2Fdresses%2Fdenim-v-neck-midi-dress-in-handlon-wash%2FNS959%2F&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Denim V-Neck Midi Dress in Handlon Wash</p><p>$158.00</p>

Ezra Lace Maxi Dress - Plum

Spicy night out? Show out in this lace maxi dress that's meant to turn heads.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.meshki.us%2Fproducts%2Fezra-lace-maxi-dress-plum&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Ezra Lace Maxi Dress - Plum</p><p>meshki.us</p><p>$99.00</p>

Ruffled Animal Print Midi Dress

On a night you're feelin' young, wild, and free, reach for this animal print option.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.zara.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fruffled-animal-print-midi-dress-p08827156.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Ruffled Animal Print Midi Dress </p><p>zara.com</p><p>$69.90</p>

Rib-Knit Dress

A knit dress is always the way to go when autumn rolls around.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww2.hm.com%2Fen_us%2Fproductpage.1191539009.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Rib-Knit Dress</p><p>hm.com</p><p>$44.99</p>

Strapless Pinstripe Dress

Now this is the kind of dress that racks in the compliments in your office. Add a blazer if you need one!

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.mango.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fp%2Fwomen%2Fdresses-and-jumpsuits%2Fdresses%2Fstrapless-pinstripe-dress_77024030&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Strapless Pinstripe Dress</p><p>$79.99</p>

Satin Effect Print Cape Dress

You'll leave everyone in the dust in this satin-like cape dress with a moody, watercolor design.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.zara.com%2Fus%2Fen%2Fsatin-effect-print-cape-dress-p08852217.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Satin Effect Print Cape Dress </p><p>zara.com</p><p>$89.90</p>

Strapless Pleated Skort

Great news: skorts are back! This pleated number will be perf for wearing when you wanna look profesh but fun.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.abercrombie.com%2Fshop%2Fus%2Fp%2Fstrapless-pleated-skort-55825321&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Strapless Pleated Skort</p><p>$72.00</p>

Loz Tie Back Linen Mini Dress

Have a Marilyn moment with this corset, linen look! The criss-cross back is just as fab as the front, btw.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.meshki.us%2Fproducts%2Floz-tie-back-linen-mini-dress-natural&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Loz Tie Back Linen Mini Dress </p><p>meshki.us</p><p>$115.00</p>

Caprice Dress

Balloon sleeves, skater skirt, bold print = everything you need to make your mark wherever you wear this dress.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sezane.com%2Fus-en%2Fproduct%2Fcaprice-dress%2Fmilo-print%23size-2&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Caprice Dress</p><p>$210.00</p>

Cotton Cashmere Ribbed Long Sleeve V-Neck Midi Dress

This cotton cashmere pick is for those slightly brisk days you don't want to wear a jacket but you know you definitely need a lil heavier material.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.quince.com%2Fwomen%2Fcotton-cashmere-ribbed-long-sleeve-v-neck-midi-dress%3Fcolor%3Dheather-oatmeal&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Cotton Cashmere Ribbed Long Sleeve V-Neck Midi Dress</p><p>quince.com</p><p>$132.00</p>

Chantae Mesh Dress in Coconut

Here's a rave review for ya: "Absolutely obsessed with this dress, it has the perfect amount of stretch and is so flattering! Seroya is one of my favorite brands, I knew it would not disappoint! Love this piece and I am so happy with my new purchase!"

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7972126&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Chantae Mesh Dress in Coconut </p><p>nordstrom.com</p><p>$298.00</p>

Organic Cotton Oxford Mini Shirtdress

Another office-friendly look, my friends! The shirt dress is such an easy, one-and-done 'fit.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gap.com%2Fbrowse%2Fproduct.do%3Fpid%3D514246&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Organic Cotton Oxford Mini Shirtdress</p><p>gap.com</p><p>$89.95</p>

V-Neck Column Maxi Dress

What a pretty option for an outdoor wedding! Just add some sandals or slingbacks and voila!

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.abercrombie.com%2Fshop%2Fus%2Fp%2Fv-neck-column-maxi-dress-56327320&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>V-Neck Column Maxi Dress</p><p>$100.00</p>

Leather Wrap Detail Shirt Dress

We can't talk about fall fashion without mentioning a leather dress, am I right? This burnt orange hue just screams autumn spice.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eloquii.com%2Fproducts%2Fleather-wrap-detail-shirt-dress%2F1089495.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Leather Wrap Detail Shirt Dress</p><p>$97.96</p>

Long Sleeve Openwork Mini Sweater Dress

You've never seen a sweater dress like this...which is exactly why you should "add to cart!"

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7740081&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Long Sleeve Openwork Mini Sweater Dress</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><p>$125.00</p>

Print Faux Leather Trim Maxi Dress

For an evening out, go for this faux leather trim maxi with a sweetheart neckline.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7919461&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Print Faux Leather Trim Maxi Dress</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><p>$159.00</p>

Davila Linen Dress

This linen look is ideal for every occasion. I'm in love with the sleeves, neckline, and bodice...so essentially, everything!

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thereformation.com%2Fproducts%2Fdavila-linen-dress%2F1313078CHN.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Davila Linen Dress</p><p>$194.60</p>

Ruched Front Angel Sleeve Slip Dress in Copper

Slip dresses are a versatile choice in every season, but especially in autumn. And how stunning is this copper?

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.showpo.com%2Fus%2Fnicholla-ruched-front-midi-slip-dress-with-short-sleeves-in-copper.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Ruched Front Angel Sleeve Slip Dress in Copper</p><p>showpo.com</p><p>$49.95</p>

Luisa Dress

Whether you've got a girl's night out on the horizon, or you need something to slip into for some quick drinks, this luxe option will be your go-to.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpaige.com%2Fproducts%2Fwomen-luisa-dress-rum-raisin&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cosmopolitan.com%2Fstyle-beauty%2Ffashion%2Fg61867781%2Fcute-fall-dresses-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Luisa Dress</p><p>$299.00</p>

Why trust Cosmo:

Cosmo’s team of fashion experts—which includes fashion director Cassie Anderson and fashion features director Rachel Torgerson, senior accessories editor Andrea Zendejas, and fashion editors Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien and Danielle Flum—have decades of experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we've curated a chic little corner of the internet for you like it’s our job (because it is, heh).

We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!

fall dresses
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