Summer Dresses That Will Take You Through Fall and Beyond

Summer has officially come to an end. Adding insult to injury is having to put your favorite summer staples in storage for two long and miserable seasons. The good news? It doesn’t have to be that way! While we will all soon be forced to say goodbye to summer, the same need not apply to certain summer dresses.

The notion that a ‘summer dress’ can only be worn during the summer is obsolete—not to mention, highly impractical during these difficult economic times. With a little creativity and crafty layering skills, you can turn seemingly season-specific styles into year-round staples, effectively doubling your wardrobe to boot.

To help you get more mileage out of your wardrobe, FOX 411 rounded up some fabulous (and affordable!) dresses that can seamlessly carry over from one season to the next.

1. ASOS Wrap Front Dress, $27.44. 

Most people shy away from airy shades during the cooler months…which is exactly why you should continue wearing them! This sweet and structured style is a great way to stand out amidst a sea of black and brown and its body-con shape makes it the perfect backdrop for warmer layers.

2. INC International Concepts Chevron Striped Empire Waist Dress, $52.49. 

Even though maxi dresses provide extra coverage, they are largely considered summer staples. Some maxi styles can be tricky to transition--especially the super flowy, bohemian-inspired ones—but overall, they can work perfectly for fall! Wear this striped maxi with a cropped bomber jacket for a cool, edgy look or layer a sweater (thick or thin depending on the weather) over the dress turning it into another great transitional piece: a maxi skirt!

3. Vero Moda Chiffon Fluted Dress, $43.91. 

A short shift dress paired with sandals or flats is a simple and sexy summer look. For fall, turn this dress into a tunic by pairing it with leggings or skinny jeans. Layer over it with a slim cardigan cinched at the waist with a belt to add definition.

4. Collective Concepts Dot-Print Sundress, $47.40. 

It may be a sundress, but this piece is totally on par with fall's polka-dot trend and can easily make the transition. Try pairing it with opaque tights and a bright cardigan for a fun and fresh style.

5. Old Navy Ruffle-Front Jersey Dress, $19.94. 

Try this dress with a denim jacket and nude flats for a sweet end-of-summer look and then with edgy extras like a leather bomber or biker boots for sexy hello-fall style.

6. Ya Los Angeles Sleeveless Smocked Dress, $21.99. 

Worn alone, this dress has a decidedly boho, summery vibe. Teamed with some sharp pieces, like a tailored blazer and stacked heels, and you’ve got an understatedly cutting edge, ultra sleek style.