Sorry, Trousers—This Anti-Trend, Throw-On Dress Is My Go-To Wardrobe Staple This Autumn

If there's one dress I'm forever a fan of, it's a black one. Knitted or silky, short or long, a black dress is a style I can always get behind—and that's coming from someone who typically steers away from dresses altogether. Part of their appeal is their versatility, and the fact that with a few clever accessory switches they can take you from day to night, casual weekend lunches to a much-anticipated date night. That being said, I'm always on the hunt for fresh outfit inspiration, especially now that I'm in autumn outfit planning mode. Bring on the Instagram scrolling.

@nlmarilyn wearing a black dress and pointed-toe boots

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Let's start with the dress itself. With the drop in temperature, my priorities are shifting from breezy linen styles to cosy knitted ones. In my opinion, nothing is more elegant than a long-sleeved midi or maxi dress, especially when its a finely knitted style. That's the kind of dress you could wear with a trench and trainers for a more casual ensemble, or with the very on-trend pointed-toe boots for a more seductive look. Then there are the evening wear options—slinky slip dresses, ankle-grazing maxis and sophisticated strapless styles will all score serious fashion points, and also can be styled for day by layering with cardigans or blazers.

If you're also looking for fresh black dress outfit inspiration, look no further—below I've found eight excellent black dress looks for every occasion, and every style.

8 BLACK DRESS OUTFITS I LOVE FOR AUTUMN 2024

1. Maxi Dress+ Denim Jacket + Pointed-Toe Heels

@sylviemus_ wearing a black dress and denim jacket

(Image credit: @sylviemus_ )

Style Notes: Black dresses and jackets are a classic pairing, and this season I'm backing the denim jacket as a great way to create a casual yet cool outfit. I love the way the blue denim contrasts with the sophistication of the black maxi—and the pointed toe heels are the ultimate finishing touch.

Shop the look:

2. Long-Sleeved Dress + Knee-High Boots

@tamaramory wearing a black dress and boots holding a coat

(Image credit: @tamaramory)

Style Notes: Knee-high boots are an autumn staple, and these versatile shoes work particularly well with black dresses of all styles. Personally, I love the effortlessly elegant look of pairing sharp-toed boots with a demure long-sleeved dress. So classic.

Shop the look:

3. Maxi Dress + Waistcoat + Mesh Flats

@dinahansen wearing a black maxi and waistcoat

(Image credit: @dinahansen)

Style Notes: Autumn sun peering though? Take advantage and incorporate some of your summer staples into your autumn wardrobe by layering a waistcoat over a sleeveless black dress, and finish off with this year's most surprising hit shoe—the mesh flat.

Shop the look:

4. Mini Dress + Long Coat + Flat Boots

@dawn.tan wearing a black mini dress, boots and coat

(Image credit: @dawn.tan)

Style Notes: Even if the temperatures plummet, you don't have to give up your love of mini dresses. Opt for a knitted style and pair with knee-high boots—these flat versions are particularly on trend this season—and an ankle-grazing coat to guard against sharp winds.

Shop the look:

5. Knitted Dress + Cropped Jacket + Pointed-Toe Slingbacks

@abimarvel wearing a knit dress and cropped jacket

(Image credit: @abimarvel)

Style Notes: All of us at Who What Wear are huge fans of knitted dresses, especially for transitional season dressing. Follow Abi's example and give yours extra definition by pairing with a cropped jacket that will accentuate the waist.

Shop the look:

6. Slip Dress + Cardigan + Mary Janes

@chrissyford wearing a slip dress and cardigan

(Image credit: @chrissyford)

Style Notes: A black slip dress is a great piece to have on hand for evening wear, but Chrissy's look proves how easily you can style it for the day, too. A fitted cardigan adds some more shape, and the flat Mary Janes keep it relaxed yet polished.

Shop the look:

7. Strapless Dress + Mules

@brittanybathgate wearing a strapless dress and mules

(Image credit: @brittanybathgate)

Style Notes: A black dress is a classic evening piece for a reason. Ever since I saw this picture of Brittany I've been dreaming of recreating the look—it just exudes such timeless sophistication. Simple, yet so effective.

Shop the look:

8. Mini Dress + Trainers + Trench

@_loissterling wearing a black mini dress, trench coat and trainers

(Image credit: @_loissterling)

Style Notes: Is this the perfect autumn weekend outfit? I think so. Lois expertly styles a black mini with a classic trench coat for a simple and polished look, before adding a trend-lead touch with colourful trainers and socks.

Shop the look:

Explore More:
Freelance Fashion Editor

Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.