Why you need a dress for all seasons
Thought a statement dress was the preserve of summer? Think again: a trophy dress will see you through autumn, too, says Olivia Buxton Smith
This was, without doubt, the summer of the dress. They were so good that, while it might be autumn, we’re loathe to give them up. So we’re not going to. All it takes is a few tweaks.
I’m talking about a frock that hits you somewhere between your midcalf and just above your ankle (any longer, and you risk crossing over into holiday or evening wear territory), and is silhouette-skimming, but clings in all the right places. It should be floral, chiffon, velvet or silk (save cotton for summer), fluted in shape, and it should have sleeves, so that it’s still seasonal even when you take off your trench coat.
They’re very flattering, which, when paired with their on-trend demure necklines and length, means they tend to sell out quickly. So keep contemplation time to a minimum. If florals aren’t your thing, Valentino’s pastel patterns on black silk and Loewe’s polka dot and striped variations offer alternative inspiration. But if they are, Isabel Marant’s were particularly good, and on the high street, both Marks & Spencer and the Studio by Preen collection at Debenhams have good, not too summery floral options that would look great with knee-high boots à la Marant.
Which brings us to shoes. Most floaty dresses can work with heels or flats, platform sandals or trainers. Wearing them with over-the-knee boots is a practical way to make floaty chiffon more winter-appropriate.
Another way to weatherproof your dress is to layer it over trousers. At Tibi, creative director Amy Smilovic offered up a series of silky and velvet midi dresses worn over trousers in a matching shade. Wearing a midi dress over jeans or tailored trousers makes for a chic combination that will keep out the October chill, but it will also mean you get maximum wear out of your favourite frock – think of this combination as the new suit, albeit a very modern one.
A shin-grazing dress looks chic worn underneath a weighty pea coat, or a woollen wrap style. Opt for a coat with a hemline that’s an inch or two shorter than your dress so there is just a flash visible.
Welcome to the hero dress. It’s a hard-working, 7 to 11 item, that will see you through the working day into evening with little more than a swipe of lipstick. And the best bit is, you’ve probably already got one in your wardrobe.