Apologies if you find the idea of thinking ahead to September too painful, but for us, it has become a practical necessity for shopping smartly during the summer. While there's nothing wrong with investing in those warm-weather saviours, we like to try and choose things that will not only look fab during July and August but will continue to work hard right through autumn and into winter (whenever possible, of course).
The summer dress has got to be one of the main culprits when it comes to the "buy now, wear for four weeks of the year" mentality (think flighty minis, pom-pom–trimmed kaftans and white broderie anglaise). However, thanks to brands such as Vampire's Wife and Batsheva, this season has seen a rise in long-sleeved and high-necked floral midis (aka the ultimate trans-seasonal style).
These dresses will keep you cool and shaded in the summer sun but will also adapt to cold weather: Sandals become knee-high boots, roll-necks are layered underneath and blazers are thrown over the top. Simple. Because we know you like to get the most for your money, we rounded up the 18 best autumn-ready frocks that will look fab now and even better in two months' time.
Style Notes: We love the fit-and-flare silhouette of Erika Boldrin's midi dress. The long sleeves and high neckline will mean it will work well in autumn.
Style Notes: Bright colours might not seem like an obvious choice for autumn, but we think this wrap dress would go so well with a white roll-neck.
Scroll down to see and shop our trans-seasonal floral dress edit.
Shop My Floral Dress Edit
Love a bit of vintage florals.
A fab high-street alternative.
An interesting mix of prairie dress and florals.
Get Joseph's winning frock for less.
Bernadette is the new dress brand to know.
This would look so good with knee-high boots.
Wear with tan sandals now and a white roll-neck and brown boots later.
Such a bargain.
This Ghospell midi looks so expensive.
Joseph does such good trans-seasonal dresses.
The asymmetric hemline on this Preen look is dreamy.
Related: Winter 2019 Trends: The Only New Fashion Looks You Need to Know
We've seen so many people in this Kitri style.
We rate the high neckline and slinky fit of this Ghost midi.
The shirtdress just got so much better.
A great option for taller girls.
Trust VB to create such an elegant and versatile frock.
The black hue will make this work in winter.
Ditzy florals are a fab option for both summer and autumn.
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