A casual dress will forever be a staple in our everyday wardrobe. It's an effortless way to look put-together, plus the versatility makes it a year-round sartorial investment. For the fall, we're drawn to these stylish designs in bold and minimal prints, flowy hems, and easygoing silhouettes. That's why we went looking for these fail-safe options, so we can get a head start on our fall shopping.
While some dresses guarantee all-day comfort, others will make an impression when you eventually return to the office or turn heads at the next social gathering. Prepare to bring these polished iterations home; don't be afraid to experiment with layering and add interest to your fall looks.
The ruched detail of this H&M Jersey Shirt Dress ($25) makes it look polished, while the silhouette feels approachable and fun.
The fabric of this H&M Crêped Silk-Blend Dress ($119) makes it look expensive and chic. The ensemble has an understated elegance that makes it a winner in our book.
This Topshop Petite Fluffy Rib Cardigan Midi Dress ($53) will stylishly transition into fall, thanks to the extra layer. But it's still a pretty fun and easygoing style for warm weather.
This H&M Ribbed Dress ($18) can be incorporated into a sporty look with the help of a baseball cap and some chunky dad sneakers. It can also be made dressier with some sleek mules and a small shoulder bag.
This Jonathan Simkhai Annette Loungewear Henley Dress ($237, originally $395) looks like a comfortable and easygoing outfit for traveling, so you might find yourself wearing it to the airport. Finish the looks with some Teva sandals for maximum comfort.
With its flattering silhouette and secure button-front detail, this LA Hearts Long Sleeve Button Front Dress ($40, originally $45) will be sure to become a closet staple. We especially love the ruching details.
This ASOS Design Collared Halter Midi Dress ($36) is retro inspired, but the silhouette is very clean and modern. It will look cool with sneakers and slide sandals alike.
I can't think of anything easier to slip into than this H&M Lyocell Maxi Dress ($40). The relaxed fit and flowy silhouette make it the perfect match for warm beach getaways.
Whether you're looking to impress a first date or you're on your third one with someone you like, this H&M Long Silk-Blend Dress ($149) will be sure to get noticed. Finish the look with some kitten heels and a small shoulder bag.
This H&M Wide-Cut Long Dress ($50) can literally do it all. By adding some heeled mules and a small shoulder bag, you'll dress it up for an al fresco dinner. But you can also dress it down with some sneakers and a baseball cap for off-duty weekends.
We like shirt dresses because they're a great option when you're short on time. This classic Zara Short Shirt Dress ($46) is one you'll have in your closet for seasons to come.
This AE Printed Tiered Maxi Dress ($70) is the answer to lazy days when you can't bother getting dressed but you'd still like to be put together. Complete the look with comfortable Birkenstock sandals, platform wedges, or sneakers.
This figure-skimming Fourteenth Place Tie Dye Long Sleeve Maxi Dress ($69) will make you look and feel fabulous. It's designed from a stretchy knit fabric, so rest assured you'll also be comfortable while wearing it.
With those massive pockets, it will be hard to pry us out of this Old Navy Long-Sleeve Midi Sweatshirt Shift Dress ($45) while we're working at home on chilly days. It also comes in a dusty-pink shade.
You can easily dress up this Loft Strappy Slip Dress ($90, plus 30 percent off with code SOGOOD) with kitten heels or down with white sneakers for a day about town.
This bold BP. Plaid Long Sleeve Minidress ($45) packs a retro and effortlessly cool attitude. Pair it with chunky boots to dial up the edginess.
The soft green hue of this ASOS Design Square Ruched Neck Midi Dress ($36) makes it eye-catching and summery. The flowy silhouette and easygoing shape make it ideal for all-day wear.
Whether you're catching up with friends at a coffee shop or exploring a new neighborhood on your own, this JDY Gingham Tiered Midi Dress ($42) has you covered with style and comfort.
This Loft Striped Tie Waist Midi Dress ($80, plus 30 percent off with code SOGOOD) looks summery and fresh, perfect for a cruise or al fresco dinner. Finish off your look with some low-heeled mules or slide sandals.
This sleeveless Lou & Grey Ribbed Henley Maxi Dress ($80, plus 30 percent off with code SOGOOD) has a smooth ribbed texture and slouchy silhouette that make it look relaxed yet still put-together. It's great for lounging or going on quick walks.
This The Drop Ilana Loose Sleeveless Wide-Hem Poplin Maxi Dress ($60) has a look that is both easygoing yet put-together. We love it paired with sneakers, but we're totally wearing it with barely there sandals as well.
From the sporty polo collar to the modern length, everything about this Wild Fable Short Sleeve Bodycon Polo Dress ($25) is effortlessly stylish. Pair it with chunky boots for a fall-ready look.
From the office to a spontaneous afterwork dinner, this & Other Stories Buttoned Asymmetric Midi Dress ($60, originally $119) will stylishly transition into the night. From the silhouette to the side slit, everything about it is flattering.
This Mango Printed Maxi Dress ($120, originally $200) will make a statement whether you're headed to brunch or a museum. Pair it with high-heeled boots for the perfect transitional look.
The relaxed silhouette and roomy look of this Treasure & Bond Plaid Long Sleeve Poplin Shirtdress ($40, originally $79) make it a great pick for lazy days when you'd still like to look put-together. The soft plaid print makes it stand out.