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Updated September 29, 2023: This article on the best work dresses was updated with new product picks, plus additional information on the most stylish ways to wear dresses to the office this fall and winter.
The weather is shifting, and as it does, our wardrobes shift, too. While certain summer work dresses (like shirt dresses and linen dresses) can be transferred to autumn, the new season usually demands some new dresses for work.
Whether you’re starting fall at a new creative office, navigating a stricter business professional dress code, or simply looking for a new interview outfit, dresses for work offer an easy outfit solution to the hectic morning rush. “Dresses are an excellent alternative to classic suiting in a modern-day office,” says Sarah Blank, co-CEO and co-owner of Scanlan Theodore Americas. “They can be a beautiful statement or an elegant foundation to your office look with elevated accessories. They are also the perfect silhouette for women to transition between the office and after-hour events.” Work dresses offer versatility and an uncomplicated way to get dressed rather than mixing and matching separates.
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This flexibility of a work dress frees up time in every woman’s busy schedule. “At M.M.LaFleur, we often call our work dresses ‘adult onesies’ because they’re easy to slip on in the morning and allow you to look immediately put-together while still feeling comfortable,” Sarah LaFleur, Founder and CEO of M.M.LaFleur tells us. “With the right dress, you can often even forgo a light jacket — it’s a one-and-done situation, and you’re out the door in minutes.” This mindset will serve you as you hunt for trendy professional clothes.
With more interest in classic, sophisticated dressing than ever, the stylish work dresses you’re about to discover ahead are, largely, of that variety. Whether it’s a chic blazer dress, a fiery red frock, or an A-line silhouette, discover the best fall dresses for work that are set to be major for the season ahead. Then score some tips on how to style these dresses for the office.
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WWD Work Dresses Inspiration: For his 1973 75-piece made-to-order collection, the equivalent of European couture, friends of Halston, Elsa Peretti, Betsy Theodoracopulos, Berry Berenson, Sandy Kirkland and Kitty Hawks model long-length dresses in luxe knitwear with leather styled with accessories from designer Peretti while walking in Manhattan. (Photo by Sal Traina/WWD/Penske Media)
Photo by Sal Traina/WWD/Penske Media)
Own a piece of fashion history by heading to the WWD Store where you can purchase chic and inspiring archival photo prints.
Best Wrap Work Dress
On days when you can’t decide what to wear to work, throw on this wrap dress that’s effortlessly stylish and office-appropriate. It’s made of cotton and polyester, delivering a soft, supported fit. Plus, it has an elevated vibe with the ¾-length-sleeve design, V-neckline, and cropped length, which can easily be paired with boots, comfortable work shoes, and more. On a crisp fall day, wear yours with tights and slingback pumps for a simple but chic ensemble.
What reviewers say: “Upon receiving it in the mail, I tried it on (I’m currently 30, almost 31 weeks pregnant) figuring if it fit and looked okay now, it would be good to use after I’ve recently given birth. It didn’t just look “okay;” it is SO flattering! I’m currently about 20 pounds heavier than normal and I could confidently wear this dress now while pregnant, when I’m postpartum, or when I’m back to “pre-baby” size (if I’m even able to get there). I think I’m honestly going to get a ton of use out of it.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $25.90
Berydress Wrap Dress $39.90 $25.90 Buy Now at amazon
Best Long-Sleeved Work Dress
A shirt dress is a workwear staple, and this one from Everlane’s Editions series (a curated collection featuring tailored classics made to last) is an easy piece for an instantly fashionable ensemble. Thanks to the prim collar — and emphasis on the waist — it’s stylish and flattering for all body types. It has a solid neutral color, with simple details such as a center-front button placket, voluminous sleeves, and front and back open-ended pleats, so you’ll never grow tired of it. This is a dress to be worn more ways than one, which feels like a steal in and of itself.
Price upon publish date of this article: $168
Everlane The Hammered Satin Shirt Dress $168 Buy Now at everlane
Best Sweater Dress for Work
The foundation of any stylish winter white wardrobe begins with a fabulous sweater dress, like this one from Treasure & Bond. It makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket with its cable knit design, maxi hem, and long-sleeve. Don’t forget to tie the look together with a matching wool coat, clean midi boots (we love a white-colored option with this dress), and a slouchy leather bag. And, if the off-white hue isn’t for you, reach for the autumn-friendly rust or green shade.
Price upon publish date of this article: $79
Treasure & Bond Cable Stitch Midi Sweater Dress $79 Buy Now at nordstrom
Best Floral Print Work Dress
Professional doesn’t have to mean boring — just check out Amazon’s selection of dresses. Spice up your work wardrobe with this flattering sheath dress with various floral patterns exclusive to the designer. The long-sleeve, below-the-knee hemline is ideal for a stricter dress code, providing plenty of coverage, while the gathered waistline shows off your curves subtly. Throw a single-breasted black blazer over this dress for an even more polished approach. Pair with flat shoes and a structured bag for a winning workwear look.
Price upon publish date of this article: $398
Jonathan Cohen Dress with Side Twist $398 Buy Now at amazon
Best Fit and Flare Work Dress
This sleek, A-line dress will stand out in a closet of workwear staples. It’s made from an extra special embroidered cotton with a unique design consisting of pale blue, chocolate brown, and dainty flowers. Subtle puff sleeves, sleek seam darts, and a fitted waist make this simple frock structured and stylish. Add a chic waist belt and pumps for a fashionable approach to work dressing, and top it off with a blazer for days when you need a little more extra warmth.
Price upon publish date of this article: $820
Silvia Tcherassi Azura Dress $820 Buy Now at amazon
Cinq à Sept is known and loved for its elevated wardrobe staples, and this McKenna dress is no exception. It’s a fun play on the classic shirt dress with a pointed collar, flared cuffs, and a curved hem. It features a twist at the midriff, creating a figure-flattering illusion, a zipper on the side for ease of on and off, and a slit at the hem to provide movement. Top it off with heels or chunky loafers.
What reviewers say: “This is versatile. There is a snap at the top to make it work appropriate, but could easily be unhooked to make the neck more daring.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $395
Cinq a Sept McKenna Dress $395 Buy Now at nordstrom
Cinq a Sept McKenna Dress $395 Buy Now at bloomingdales
Best Printed Work Dress
Leopard is the pattern lover’s neutral and a great print for the workplace. This dress is made from a lightweight, stretchy material that will hang off the body effortlessly. The pull-on style has a maxi design with a slit on the left-hand side, allowing the dress to move graciously with every step. Add a black western-inspired belt to show off the waistline and add another layer of style. Then, finish with boots and a suede tote bag to pack all the essentials.
Price upon publish date of this article: $229
Allsaints Katlyn Evita Maxi Dress $229 Buy Now at nordstrom
Best Tailored Work Dress
A blazer dress is an easy, one-and-done option, and you don’t want to pass up on Abercrombie’s iteration. It consists of a cotton-wool fabric in a double-breasted shape with sharp shoulders and a slim bottom for a power boss feel. We recommend wearing this one with tights and knee-high boots for a cool, clean, modern approach to workwear. Complete your outfit with an oversized wool cashmere coat to get the tried-and-true layered look.
What reviewers say: “I found it to be versatile and you could wear it with heels or boots. I chose to size down because I wanted a more fitted look.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
Abercrombie & Fitch Blazer Dress $120 Buy Now at abercrombie
Best Slip Dress for Work
Slip into this fluid shirt dress for a day at the office. This version has a collar and a flattering V neckline, making it just the ticket for easy elegance. It is comfortable enough for a full day, starting with a long commute and ending with with happy hour drinks. Pair with an oxford lace-up or kitten heels for a cool and classy look.
What reviewers say: “This is an amazing dress. Shimmery, rich color, it skims over your body. The V neck is flattering, but the button is low, I may have to add another type of closure. No big deal. Very elegant but comfortable, too.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $228
J.Crew Short Sleeve Slip Dress $228 Buy Now at j.crew
Best Mini Work Dress
If you prefer mini dresses but don’t know how to make them work-appropriate, consider a shift dress with a loose and boxy fit. Madewell’s Plisse dress is a great option because it hits the middle of the thigh and has elevated details such as cap sleeves, a raw hem, and hand-finished pleats. It’s also versatile enough to be worn to a morning brunch or evening date.
What reviewers say: “Honestly, this dress is SO much cuter and stylish in person. I thought it almost looked frumpy in the online pictures but tried it on in store and am obsessed! It is looser in the waist area so you could do a belt around the waist for a more cinched/fitted look. Will be super cute under a blazer or denim jacket.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $118
Madewell Plissé Mini Tee Dress $118 Buy Now at Madewell
Best Plus-Size Work Dress
Rayon Spandex Print Double Knit Jacqurad After suffering through so many confining dresses over the years, you’ll feel relieved when trying on Spanx’s The Perfect A-Line Dress. The Ponte fabric is ultra stretchy but hugs your figure, delivering a flattering look. Our favorite features are the zipper with an elongated ribbon attached, so you never have to struggle to zip the back and pockets on each side so you can store little essentials or rest your hands when not typing away. The best part? The signature fabric doesn’t wrinkle, so it’s a great piece to take on a work