The calendar has officially flipped to September, but summer’s balmy temps will linger for at least another few weeks. To satisfy the desire for a fall style update that you won’t have to wait weeks to enjoy, turn to the versatility of a transitional dress. These finds are ideal candidates: lightweight enough to be worn ASAP with sandals, devoid of any high-summer details (catch you next year, eyelets!) and primed for layering later with tights and a chunky knit or loose cardigan over top. A few of these hardworking frocks will even work worn with a thin turtleneck underneath for added warmth that also looks chic. From short flouncy styles to bold colours and fresh takes on classics (like the shirt dress), here are twenty dresses that are ready to go the distance through the final quarter of 2021.
Mochi Es dress, $288, thereformation.com
Printed babydoll dress, $119, frankandoak.com
Long raglan sleeve A-line dress, $80, penningtons.com
Cotton chambray smocked dress, $250, michaelkors.ca
Ruched dress, $85, gapcanada.ca
Drawstring 3/4 sleeve dress, $50, uniqlo.com/ca
Long sleeve tiered smock dress, $50, winners.ca
Rib collar sweater dress, $126, eloquii.com
Deep V-neck maxi dress, $209, bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca
Printed midi dress, $80, zara.com
Opulent medallion smocked dress, $150, simons.ca
Long sleeve tiered dress, $39, joefresh.com
Calf-length dress, $50, hm.com/ca
Mira dress, $98 (avail early Sept.), levi.com
Puff-sleeve cotton poplin mini shirtdress, $174, jcrew.com
Rillo flounced wrap dress, $65, veromoda.ca
Shoulder pad dress, $60, aritzia.com
High-neck floral mini dress, $50, marshalls.ca
Lucie smocked midi dress, $219, madewell.com
Subscribe to our newsletters for our very best stories, recipes, style and shopping tips, horoscopes and special offers.