The season of balmy getaways is drawing to a close, and as we return from our holidays and pack away our sundresses, it’s natural to slip into a “back to work” mentality. In preparation for autumn, we’re turning our attention to the gaps in our wardrobes; identifying those pieces that make getting dressed for colder weather a quick and stress-free process. If you work in an office, you’ll know that professional-looking dresses definitely sit in this category. After all, many of us spend most of our weeks working, so it’s smart to stock up on appropriate attire. And what better time than a brand new season to freshen up your workwear?
With a roster of polished dresses, you’ll cut down your getting-ready time significantly—which, as the mornings get darker and the temptation to stay in bed mounts, can only be a good thing. No more rushed 7am attempts to match your tailoring in low lighting.
It’s only the start of September, and already the choice of office-friendly autumn dresses is overwhelming. Crafted from slightly thicker fabrics than our summer picks, the 20 dresses we’ve deemed worth your attention are suitable for the range of temperatures September and October generally throw at us. Simply tweak your accessories and layering pieces accordingly. Whether your budget is two, three, or four figures, we feel confident you’ll find your new favourite uniform below.
The Best Work Dresses Under £50
Simple and sleek—you can’t go wrong with a dress like this.
H&M
Gathered Bodycon Dress
We raved about this dress when it dropped last year, so you can imagine how happy we are that it’s back.
Mango
Puffed Sleeves Satin Dress
M&S Collection
Printed Tie Neck Midi Waisted Dress
Houndstooth always feels like a professional print.
Style this mini option with tights and boots.
The Best Work Dresses Under £150
Arket
Belted Utility Dress
You’ll also reach for this on weekends.
COS
Printed Midi Shirt Dress
So striking! Prepare to be the talk of the office in this striped dress.
Massimo Dutti
Midi Wrap Dress With Chain Detail
This silhouette is so classic.
Layer a cream turtleneck underneath on chillier days.
& Other Stories
Knot Detail Shirt Dress
The perfect summer-to-autumn dress.
The Best Work Dresses Under £300
Me+Em
Flower Meadow Print Midi Dress + Belt
This one feels oh-so autumnal.
Reiss
Black/Camel Mia Knitted Colourblock Pleated Midi Dress
Just add minimal black accessories.
Ganni
Cotton Poplin Gathered Open-Neck Maxi Dress
Once Friday rolls around, take this one from desk to dancefloor.
Aligne
Kendra Tailored Dress
You can easily layer this tailored design over shirts and long-sleeved tops.
Me+Em
Jacquard Fit and Flare Midi Dress + Belt
The Best Work Dresses Under £1000
Max Mara
Grana Belted Wool-Blend Twill Midi Shirt Dress
Elevate this with gold-toned jewellery and court shoes.
Diane Von Furstenberg
Astrid Wool and Cashmere-Blend Midi Wrap Dress
You’ll be grateful for this cheerful style on gloomy autumn days.
Allude
Wrap-Front Wool-Blend Midi Dress
Marni
Patchwork Striped Wool Midi Dress
This is a dress you can rely on for myriad occasions.
Whistles
Phoebe Leather Shirt Dress
Keep this one close by for extra-cold mornings.
Next Up: The 7 High-Street Brands Our Editors Always Turn to for Chic Tailoring
