8 Transitional Dresses That Are as Stylish as They Are Affordable
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Now that we've entered into August, we know one thing for sure: with a new season on the horizon, it's finally time to start getting our transitional wardrobes in order. Sure, the outside temps might not scream "fall" — but take heart dear reader, autumn really is just around the corner. And even if the weather might not reflect the upcoming seasonal change just yet, at least our closets can.
Transitional dressing can be a bit of a tricky business. While the mornings might be cooling down to more fall-friendly temps, the afternoons can still hike their way up to pretty heated summer highs. And don't even get us started on the unpredictability of seasonal showers. So, how do you properly revamp your wardrobe for summer-to-fall styling? Our seasonal secret is none other than a dress. While dresses are popular during the summer months, the right dress style can just as easily be worn throughout the fall, too — especially with the wide array of maxi dresses, sweater dress styles, shirt dresses, and a number of other slips that are great for layering and creating a breezy, autumnal ensemble.
We have been spending a lot of our time stocking up on dresses lately, and fortunately our shopping addiction has led us to find some pretty adorable, transitional dresses that are great for filling your summer-to-fall wardrobe with — and under $100, no less. To save you time and money, we rounded up a few of our favorite options below. You don't have to sacrifice style when you're spending less cash: these dresses prove it.
— Additional reporting by Macy Williams
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A Sweater Dress: Topshop Collar Long Sleeve Sweater Dress
As shopping experts, we have to tell you: your fall wardrobe just isn't complete without a proper sweater dress style incorporated into it. Fortunately, this Topshop Collar Long Sleeve Sweater Dress ($55) is a big winner in our books — courtesy of its perky collar and vertical, ribbed design. Best of all: it's affordable and under $60.
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A Patterned Dress: Kiss The Sky Side Slit Midi Dress
We are simply smitten with this Kiss The Sky Side Slit Midi Dress ($79). The side slit elevates the straight dress with an added breathability — making it great to pair with a staple pair of fall boots or strappy stilettos. And the multi-colored blue and floral design completes the frock with a modern (yet still seasonally friendly) touch, sure to keep it looking fresh and on-trend year-round.
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A Slip Dress: Urban Renewal Eco Linen Tie Shoulder Maxi Dress
Your go-to mules will look so chic with this Urban Renewal Eco Linen Tie Shoulder Maxi Dress ($69). The breezy, slip style oozes the most inimitable elegance — giving you that off-duty look we're all striving to achieve. Plus, the tie straps allow users to adjust the maxi dress length to their own style preferences.
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A Prairie Dress: Universal Thread Balloon Long Sleeve Dress
This Universal Thread Balloon Long Sleeve Dress ($25, originally $30) has proven to be a big hit among our readers — and for good reason. Not only does the airy frock play perfectly into the cottagecore aesthetic, but it also boasts a moody appeal that's totally on-trend for the fall, too. Best of all: it's available in a ton of colors, including a peachy red and navy blue.
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A Shirt Dress: UO Taurus Corset Shirt Dress
Everyone's favorite midi shirt dress gets an edgy upgrade in this UO Taurus Corset Shirt Dress ($70) style. The polished frock features a typical button-up design that's elevated by a contrasting, corset outlining on the torso. Whether you're styling it with heels, chunky loafers, or even combat boots, we have a hunch this dress could be paired with just about everything in your closet.
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An Off-the-Shoulder Dress: Old Navy Smocked Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress
Our cottagecore dreams come to life with this Old Navy Smocked Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress ($55). From the fit-and-flair silhouette to the off-the-shoulder design and regal puff sleeves, there's truly so much to love about this delicate style. And its rustic orange coloring also feels like a perfect fit in our autumn color palettes.
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A Knit Dress: BP. Easy Crewneck Long Sleeve Sweater Dress
Throw on your favorite tennis shoes or combat boots with this BP. Easy Crewneck Long Sleeve Sweater Dress ($18, originally $49) for an essential summer-to-fall style. What we love most about this knit dress (aside from the rustic coloring) is its length. Unlike other, warmer sweater dresses, this style allows you to embrace a knit trend without feeling too covered by the excess in material.
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A Crochet Dress: ASOS Design Halter Crochet Maxi Dress
From a weekend wedding to a late-night bite with the girls, coastal getaway, music festival, and beyond, this ASOS Design Halter Crochet Maxi Dress ($60) has the most style versatility — making it great for wear in any season. We're especially loving the intricate, crocheted design of the style, which encompasses a wide variety of colors (ideal for matching!).
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