4 Ways to Style a Burgundy Dress This Fall

It officially feels like fall here in Indianapolis, with cooler temperatures and cloudy days becoming the norm once again. While I have mixed feelings about this change (summer girl over here!) I will say that it comes with the perk of allowing me to wear different wardrobe staples.

Dresses might typically be reserved for summer wear, but when you’re putting together an outfit for the fall, there’s no need to avoid this piece. I don’t know about you, but I get a bit uninspired after wearing jeans on repeat, and dresses offer the ideal opportunity to wear something with a different look.

The key to wearing a dress during transitional seasons is to keep layers in mind. If you need some inspiration, I’ve got you covered! Here, I’m sharing four ways you can style a burgundy dress. I’ve put together all of these looks with the same midi dress, however, any dress you have will work!

How to Style a Burgundy Dress

Watch Here: My Top Ideas for Styling a Fall-Appropriate Dress

Layer with a leather jacket.

If there’s one layer that I reach for most often during the fall months, it’s a leather jacket. This wardrobe staple is the ideal choice to finish your outfits with when the weather is moody. It’s a piece that goes with so many different looks, yet offers the same sophisticated and chic feel every time.

Slip one on over a midi dress for an instant, fall-appropriate vibe. I love the way the burgundy dress I’m wearing complements the rich brown hue on this leather jacket. Other combos that would work: A black leather jacket with a striped midi dress, an off-white leather jacket with a navy blue dress, or a black leather jacket with a black midi dress (a monochromatic moment!)

Add a blazer.

When you’re not sure what to layer over a dress, just remember that a blazer is always a safe choice. Not only is this an item that most people already have in their closet, but it also has the ability to really level things up. This outfit would be perfect for a work holiday party or even for a business meeting. Going with an oversized blazer is a great way to add more visual interest to your outfit — plus, it will also provide a more comfy fit!

This white blazer from Aritzia is a recent fave, but Abercrombie and Mango are two other retailers that often have good choices. I also love all the blazer options from Anine Bing. For shoes, I went with a classic pair of pumps, but ballet flats would also look cute.

Opt for ballet flats.

Speaking of ballet flats, they’re a no-brainer to style with a midi dress. Because this burgundy dress has a relatively simple design (no busy colors or patterns), I wanted to jazz things up with my shoe choice. Metallic touches are undeniably “in” right now, and these shiny silver shoes offer a subtle nod to the trend.

This outfit is a good choice if you need something that you can wear from day to night. Consider tying a cardigan around your shoulders for a more styled look (and a practical layer for the evening!)

Incorporate a vest.

When it comes to vests, my observation is that you’re either into the look or it’s totally not for you. If you’re open to it, layering one over a dress is a good way to dip your toes into the trend. This pick has a streamlined and simple feel, making it a great “starter” vest. You can wear it unbuttoned with a dress or buttoned with a pair of jeans and heels!

Which outfit is your favorite? Let me know in the comment section below!