12 fall dresses more comfortable than sweats
Want to feel lazy but look put together? Throw on one of these and thank us later
When the weather cools down and summer starts to feel like a distant memory, you need all the help you can get to feel warm and cozy. But one of fashion's biggest conundrums is finding that balance between comfort and style. You could toss on your favourite hoodie and joggers, but sadly, that's not always the most appropriate outfit, especially if you have a big meeting or a dinner date after work. A dress is an obvious choice for both those occasions, but that might seem like the complete opposite of your most comfortable outfit. It doesn't have to be, though. Not only does a great dress take the guesswork out of planning an outfit (since it's a one-and-done situation), but there are lots of options that'll make you feel like you never left the couch. Read on to see 12 comfortable, but still stylish, dresses for fall.
This scarlet shirtdress' loose silhouette and soft material will make you feel like you're wandering around a spa in a luxe robe. Wear it on its own, or over a pair of plaid trousers if you mean business.
Babaton Howitt Dress, $168, artizia.com
Taking a classic pattern like stripes and piecing it together in intersecting, asymmetrical blocks instantly elevates any piece. This dress has that, along with a flattering shape that's soft and stretchy so you'll never feel restricted.
Softspun Ribbed Asymmetrical Midi Dress, $89.95, gapcanada.ca
Turtleneck dresses are fall's answer to the t-shirt dress, ie. the lazy girl's summer staple. This one, with its pop of orange, throwback zigzag stripes and thick belt, is something you'll reach for when you want to look on-point with little effort.
Textured Weave Dress with Belt, $45.90, zara.com
Breezy dresses aren't just for summer – they're also perfect for fall layering. This one has the same shape and feel as a nightgown, but black makes it perfect for daytime. Wear it open from the waist down over skinny jeans, or under an oversized plaid blazer.
H&M+ Modal Maxi Dress, $49.99, hm.com
This dress is from British designer Hana Tajima's latest collection for Uniqlo, which means you get a twist on the brand's basics with a more relaxed fit and unexpected prints. It feels a little festive, too, which means it could work for your office holiday party.
Mock Neck Printed Long Sleeve Dress, $39.90, uniqlo.com
Designed in Toronto and ethically made in Egypt with the softest cotton, all of Kotn's pieces are ultra comfortable. This sweater-meets-dress is no exception, and it's polished enough to take you from morning errands to an afternoon meeting.
Sweatshirt Dress, $88, kotn.com
If you're looking for a piece that'll help you get on the daytime pyjama trend, here it is. Silky soft like your favourite sleep shirt, this floral-print dress has an adjustable tie that adds a little shape.
Print Dress 2383, $108, oakandfort.com
Everyone needs a laid back LBD for colder weather, and if you don't have one yet, this could be it. It's made with super soft Merino wool, and bonus: it won't shrink into a tiny version of itself when you machine wash it.
Machine Washable Merino Sweater Dress in Black, $99.50, frankandoak.com
No one should feel limited to solid, dark colours come fall, because a bright print like this one can help you feel a little sunnier on a gloomy day. And its ribbed-knit is not only flattering, but cozy, too – another dress that'll feel like a spa robe.
Tanya Taylor Ellie Dress, $625.96, shopbop.com
Feeling a little adventurous? Leopard print can help you express that, and this dress's flowy sleeves and tiered hem will keep you comfy while you let your wild side shine.
Leopard Print Chiffon Tie Neck Ruffle Dress, $198, lechateau.com
Halifax-based Maggie Jayne designs everything at home, and then sources her fabrics and produces her pieces in Jaipur, India. Made with the softest, lightweight cotton silk, this versatile wrap dress can go from day to night with a quick addition of a metallic ankle boot or oversized earrings.
Wrap Dress, $240, maggiejayne.com
Although this dress is closer to a plaid flannel than sweats, we'd argue that both are equally comfortable. The zipper closure is a fun alternative to buttons, too, and you can bring in a hit of metallic by cinching it with a silver-buckled belt.
Elizabeth and James Badgley Checked Cotton Maxi Dress, about $584.89, net-a-porter.com
Tara MacInnis is a Toronto-based writer and editor with a deep love for lipstick, jumpsuits and dogs. Follow her on Instagram @tara_macinnis.