Discover the Best Dresses for Every September Occasion

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No matter the occasion or season, there are always plenty of opportunities to wear a dress and, of course, an overwhelming number of options from which to pick. We’ve put together an edit of the best dresses of the month; check back every two weeks for a new selection of styles, handpicked by Vogue.

September is here, calling for wardrobe reshuffles and a fresh look at the fall trends defining the season. What makes a good in-between season dress? Based on this month’s standout finds, the key elements are texture, color, and fabric. Dôen and Maria McManus’s lace-trimmed midis work well for the office and special occasions; Toteme’s purple scarf dress makes a strong case for adding the rich hue to your fall wardrobe, while Cos’s twisted jersey dress makes for an easy everyday option.

Whether you’re shopping for your back-to-work wardrobe, vacation, a destination wedding, or simply a dress fall refresh, these are September’s best dresses.

The Lace-Trimmed Midi

For a lace dress that’s feminine but not overly sweet, look no further than Maria McManus’s black satin midi. Style it with a button-down or cardigan knotted at the waist, then add an unexpected pop of color with either your shoes or your bag.

The Draped Dress

A rich blue hue and draped silhouette give this dress a modern take on the 1920s drop-waist silhouette. Dress it up with heels for evening or ground it with loafers for an uptown-meets-downtown approach.

The Grown-Up Nightie

The nightie was a summer favorite, and for fall, Dôen gives it a polished update in a maxi silhouette with silk and lace trimmings. The result is a romantic yet refined style that works just as well at the office as it does for cocktails.

The Short-Sleeve Mini

The LBD for minimalists comes courtesy of Toteme, who’ve crafted a short sleeve style from a bonded scuba crepe with darted seams for a subtly sculptural silhouette. Pair with tights and patent heels.

The Sheer Long-Sleeve

Khaite’s new fall collection has arrived, and this layered maxi, crafted from a sheer silk organza, is a standout. An elegant bustle detail at the back adds unexpected drama.

The Purple Dress

You’re not imaging it: Purple is one of the season’s standout shades and Toteme’s scarf dress is one of our favorite renditions. Finish with contrasting red or lemon hues for a jaunty color story.

The Floral Dress

Florals aren’t just reserved for spring. Ulla Johnson’s long-sleeve turtleneck dress makes the print feel autumnal. Pair with boots for this transitional period.

The Pleated Dress

Kallmeyer’s Nala dress has Vogue bride written all over it. Keep the finishing touches pared-back with drop earrings and sleek white shoes.

The Printed Dress

Straight from Proenza Schouler’s fall runway is this artfully printed dress that’s great for any number of September occasions on your calendar. Pair it with kitten heels and a leather jacket for dinner out with friends, or with boots on cooler days.

The Runway Maxi

Alaïa knows how to celebrate the female form, and this maxi from Pieter Mulier’s final collection for the house does just that. Crafted from ultra-soft merino, it’s also available in a zesty chartreuse, and classic black.

The Slip Dress

Not your typical minimalist ’90s slip. This olive-green version gets a romantic update with intricate lace trimming.

The Caftan

Whether you’re heading somewhere warm this month or simply leaning into fall’s version of artful bohemian dressing, a caftan always delivers. Easy and elegant, all you need is a long pendant and some chunky bangles to style it out.

The Jersey Dress

COS reimagines the gather dress with a twisted detail at the front for asymmetric like draping. A no-brainer 9-5 option that needs minimal styling.

Shop the best dresses from August:

The Scarf-Inspired Mini

Scarf dressing continues to be an editor favorite. Versace’s knotted mini is destined for Ibiza, Positano, and every glamorous Mediterranean destination in between.

The Checkered Maxi

Consider this your transitional dress for the season ahead; Faithfull’s checkered maxi is effortless to wear from late summer into fall. Pair with anything from flats to loafers to canvas sneakers.

The Fringe Favorite

A little fringe goes a long way! This Proenza Schouler dress proves texture can make just as much impact as color. Ground the look with an unexpected pop of color.

The Button Dress

Destree knows its way around feminine pieces. This shift dress is not your ordinary polka-dot dress; the dots are actually the brand’s signature buttons, playing with the trompe-l’oeil effect.

The Summer Halter Dress

Linen is summer’s unsung hero, the fabric that works when the heat is ruthless. Zara’s halter dress features contrast piping. It’s a simple dress to wear into Labor Day weekend.

The Midi Minimalist Dress

Who doesn’t love a midi dress, especially one that feels minimal with an unexpected twist? This & Other Stories style is an elegant option for everything from the office to an evening out; at this price, it feels like a steal.

The Nightie Mini

The nightie dress remains a summer favorite, spotted on everyone from Bella Hadid to Kaia Gerber. Make the most of the final weeks of the season with a mini version styled with ballet flats, a basket bag, and a bandana.

The Caftan

Two trends in one dress, caftan and fringe trimming continue to be standout trends for the season. This option from Taller Marmo works just as well for an event as it does for dinner at the cabana.

The Runway Dress

Fresh from Altuzarra’s runway, this midi needs little introduction. Just add flats or kitten heels and a clutch.

The Art Deco-Inspired Dress

Get ahead of the Art Deco trend for fall with this velvet drop-waist dress from Loretta Caponi. Rich in texture and elegant, the silhouette feels made for an evening at the ballet.

The Cocktail Dress

Vivienne Westwood has long been known for mastering the female form. This sheer chiffon polka-dot dress features a refined construction and makes a striking option for a wedding.

The Floral Maxi

This Dôen floral maxi is an ideal late-August dress, romantic enough for summer yet easy to transition into fall. Wear it now with ballet flats and later with boots.

The Little Black Everyday Dress

Never underestimate the power of the little black dress, especially this seasonless Anine Bing style you’ll return to again and again.

The Little Black Dress

Prada gives the LBD a chic, sporty twist (pairing the nylon with a delicate lace-trim edge) in this easy, flowing silhouette. Style with a ribbed tank, a colorful pouch bag, and a straw hat for an effortless contrast.

The Nightie

Lean into the nightie trend, the It dress of the summer! The gown once reserved for bedtime makes a chic summer dress. Pair with shield sunglasses for some edge and ballet flats; if you are feeling playful, add a chic silk headscarf!

The Scarf Dress

Scarf dressing isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Fresh from the Dôen pre-fall collection, this is one option that works from the city or for your next holiday in the Mediterranean seaside.

The Grecian Beauty

Heading to the Greek Island this summer? We may have found a chic dress for your holiday! Pair this Aflalo plisse dress with a pair of gladiator sandals and a sculptural cuff to complete the look.

The Ultimate Vacation Dress

Some dresses say vacation; others practically transport you to your dream destination. Loewe’s printed and draped dress is of the latter kind—whisking you away to an overwater bungalow at golden hour from the moment you slip it on. The only thing left for you to do is craft your out-of-office email.

The Red Tie Dress

How to survive 100-degree weather, you may ask? The solution is linen! This tomato-red dress is the everything dress from summers in the city, to the office, and to a beach wedding; it works pretty much everywhere without breaking a sweat.

The Checkered Midi

For an elegant yet ever-so-feminine dress, look to Bernadette. The checkered print is transformed into a feminine strapless silhouette that is perfect for any summer soirée.

The Linen Mini

This Miu Miu mini makes for the ultimate cool-girl dress; you are just missing a pair of flip-flops and a pouch bag.

The ’90s Slip Dress

The Gwyenth slip dress from J.Crew, continues to be an editor favorite. Season after season, new colors are added; this dark eucalyptus color feels like a fresh summer color.

The Neutral Print Dress

Always bet on Alemais to have a chic summer print. For those who love neutrals, but want to lean into a bit of experimenting, opt for this easy flowing shirt dress that does all the talking.

The Modern Elegant Dress

This Loulou de Saison dress is a good option for the minimalist who is looking to make a subtle statement. Pair with tassel accessories and a kitten heel to complete the look.

The Vacation Mini

Heading to the south of France? Pack this blue dress for the occasion. A chic dress to pair from the beach, bar, and beyond. A silhouette that calls for a vacation.

The Airy Drop Waist Dress

This chiffon Liberowe dress makes for a chic option for the bridal moments, whether it’s for a bridal brunch, city hall wedding, or rehearsal dinner on the beach.

The Chartreuse Fringe Maxi

Chartreuse is having its moment. Lean into the trend in Alaĩa’s knit dress that makes for a flattering silhouette. For day, pair with flip-flops and a slouchy bag; for evening, pair with mules or strappy sandals and a clutch.

The Fish Motif Dress

Fresh from Altuzarra’s fall runway, this dress deserves a place in your August travels. Style with T-strap sandals and a silk scarf to tie nonchalantly around the waist.

The Smocked Beauty

For the sophisticated take on the smocked dress, look to this Khaite dress for an everyday white dress that doesn’t require much styling. Inspired by the summer dress shoot, pair with beaded necklaces and colorful sandals for the perfect hint.

The LBD With a Twist

You can never have enough black dresses in your wardrobe. Wear it with canvas sneakers and a raffia hat for farmers market morning, or for a dinner al fresco, pair with embellished sandals and bangles.

The Romantic Lace Dress

You can always rely on lace details making for a romantic touch. This dress will make you the elegant wedding guest. Pair with espadrilles for a garden wedding or strappy sandals for an indoor soiree.

Shop the best dresses from July:

The Bandana-Inspired Dress

We can’t get enough of the midi-dress this summer, especially one with a touch of nostalgia. Dôen’s bandana-print dress with a self-tie belt creates an effortless, gently cinched silhouette. Add flat T-strap sandals and a raffia tote, and you’re set!

The Floral Halter

Planning your next holiday? Add this Zara halter to your packing list. Crafted from linen and scattered with florals, it’s the kind of dress made for long lunches by the beach.

The White Mini

The beauty of the white mini lies in its ease. It’s the throw-on-and-go dress you’ll reach for all summer long, whether you’re strolling around town or picnicking in the park. Finish with ballet flats and an embellished summer bag.

The Mint Dress

Khaite’s Grier dress is summer simplicity at its finest. The easy silhouette in a refreshing mint hue offers a modern take on pastel dressing. Pair it with kitten heels for evening or flat sandals for daytime ease.

The Polka-Dot Halter

If you prefer solids over patterns but want to try a timeless print, this Faithfull polka-dot dress is a great option. The halter-neck silhouette is reminiscent of the white one Marilyn Monroe wore in The Seven Year Itch. Retro chic!

The Butter Yellow Midi

A great summer dress should feel effortless, wearable, and just a bit romantic. This butter yellow number from Staud fits the bill. Style it with wedge espadrilles, and don’t forget a raffia sun hat.

The Not-So-Basic LBD

If your wardrobe leans heavily on black, consider this your summer update. JW Anderson’s silk tie dress is the kind of minimalist-with-a-twist piece that works almost anywhere and can easily be dressed up or down.

The Pleated Maxi

Polka dots get a modern look in this pleated maxi. Add sporty flip-flops and sun-shield sunglasses for contemporary styling.

The Pastel Pink Dress

Headed to a summer wedding? Brandon Maxwell’s pastel pink gown practically guarantees best-dressed-guest status. The open back and graceful draping need very minimal accessories. Just add a clutch, simple jewelry, and a pair of pumps.

The Poplin Tank Dress

A poplin tank dress is one of summer’s workhorses, a reliable silhouette that is versatile and perfect for the office and the weekend. Pair with ballet-inspired sneakers.

The Printed Maxi

A maxidress elongates naturally, and this artful motif turns it into a true statement. Style with a cuff and barely-there sandals.

The Mesh Dress

Posse’s new mesh style (complete with a floral appliqué) calls for thoughtful underpinnings: Layer it over a one-piece swimsuit for an effortless beach-to-dinner moment.

The Floral Dress

Invest in the right one, and you’ll find that a floral dress can rise to multiple occasions. From summer weddings to garden parties, Isabel Marant’s rosy pink version is your key to warm-weather event dressing.

The Eyelet Dress

Sea’s drop-waist dress is light and effortless, perfect for those summer days when you want to look polished without trying hard.

The Terry Minidress

PTO booked? This terrycloth mini deserves a spot in your resortwear collection. It’s fresh, easy, and ideally suited for a beach day or poolside lunch.

The Lace-Trimmed Dress

Some evenings simply call for an extra bit of romance. This lacy LBD is an elegant choice; style it with kitten heels, a pouch bag, and a satin scarf tied around your neck or waist for the finishing touch.

The Hidden Beaded Dress

This Sir the Label style is the mullet of dresses: The front is minimal, the back is beaded. (Still too simple for your taste? A pair of colorful sandals makes it maximalist-friendly.)

The Graphic Dress

For the minimalist who loves a little contrast, this graphic dress makes a subtle statement. Styled with simple black sandals, it’s perfect for a summer in the city.

The Goddess Dress

With its soft sand hue, this draped dress is practically made for beachy locales. Accessorize it with a T-strap sandal and an embellished bag for an elegant, sun-warmed finish.

The Ruched Dress

This relaxed silhouette is made for weekdays and weekends; it’s the dress to take you from office hours to after-hours.

The Tangerine Dress

Add a jolt of color to your wardrobe with Leset’s orange dress, and finish it off with red accessories for a fiery tonal moment.

The Little White Dress

This Staud mini (part of the brand’s collaboration with Positano’s Da Adolfo) has vacation written all over it. Wear it post-holiday with ballet flats too.

The Romantic Slip Dress

Chloé brings its signature bohemian flair to this dusty green slip. To lean into the laid-back aesthetic, reach for clogs and oversized sunglasses for your final touches.

The Dotted Dress

A dotted Dôen dress is as versatile as it gets. From warm-weather workwear to park picnics and more casual weddings, this flattering midi can suit a variety of events.

The Ruffled Midi

We’d pair this affordable ($80!) midi with a linen blazer and kitten heel for the office, then swap in strappy sandals for drinks after work.

The Paisley-Print Dress

Not too fitted, not too oversized, Matteau’s paisley dress brings just the right amount of volume to a summer wardrobe.

The Halterneck Dress

For all those incoming summer wedding invitations, this black halter neck is a timeless style you can wear and rewear. Note the slim belt buckle at the back; it’s a small detail that makes this dress feel quintessentially Khaite.