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The 17 Best Work Dresses for Looking Chic During the Fall

Dress for the job you want—even when it's 98 degrees outside

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best work dresses, from ann taylor to ingrid + isabel maternity picks to banana republic sheath dresses
Ann Taylor/Ingrid + Isabel/Banana Republic

You heard it here first: Success starts with having a killer wardrobe, and that doesn’t always mean donning a button-up shirt. Right smack in the middle of any professional look is the trusty work dress (plus some stylish accessories, of course)—the kind of outfit that effortlessly mixes style and class. Whether you're owning the boardroom, totally nailing presentations or casually working the networking game, finding that ultimate work dress will have you feeling (and looking) 100.

I compiled a list of the best work dresses to give you VIP access to the world of office fashion. From those timeless classics that make you seem unflappably pulled-together to unique styles (hello, Pomander Place tweed bow dress, $168) that redefine what “professional” even means, consider this your fashion GPS for the office.

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The Best Work Dresses at a Glance

1

Best Casual Work Dress

Milumia Mock Neck Dress

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2

Best Formal Work Dress

Ann Taylor Elbow Sleeve Square Neck Dress

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3

Best Maternity Work Dress

Ingrid + Isabel The Mingle Dress

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4

Best Striped Work Dress

Cupshe Long Sleeve Mini Shirt Dress

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5

Best Sheath Dress for Work

Banana Republic Sculpted Sheath Dress

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How I Chose the Best Work Dresses

To make our work dress selects, I spoke with Cara Benevenia, a professional stylist, who let me know what makes a work dress really pop—as well as what styles are most suitable for a variety of workplaces, and where to go for less-expected finds. I also scoured customer reviews and made sure to include a variety of different fabrics, lengths and price points.

Meet the Expert

Cara Benevenia has been a stylist since December 2022, but she’s been styling shoots for her handbag brand since 2019. She currently assists NYC-based stylists Madeline Manning and Jenesee Utlely with various clients, and her expertise is in commercial womenswear.

The Hardest Part About Going Back Into the Office Is Deciding What to Wear


Best Casual Work Dress

1. Milumia Mock Neck Dress

What I Like

  • color variety
  • breathable fabric

What I Don't Like

  • runs long

Milumia

This Milumia mock neck T-shirt dress will instantly raise your frock standards. It boasts jersey material and a flowy A-line silhouette that's as comfortable as wearing your nightgown all day. That breezy shape—paired with a sleeveless design—making it great for layering as you head into fall.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to 3XL

Best Formal Work Dress

2. Ann Taylor Elbow Sleeve Square Neck Dress

What I Like

  • subtle plaid
  • timeless silhouette

What I Don't Like

  • one color option

Ann Taylor

Let's chat about this gem from Ann Taylor—it's like the holy grail of formal work dresses. Seriously, this subtle, grey-blue plaid dress offers an "I've got my ish together" tailored silhouette, hugging your curves just right with that fitted waist and cute cut-out elbow sleeves. The square neck adds a polished, unexpected twist.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: classic 0-18 and petite 00 to 16

Best Maternity Work Dress

3. Ingrid + Isabel The Mingle Dress

What I Like

  • versatile
  • silky sateen fabric
  • machine washable

What I Don't Like

  • a bit pricey

Ingrid + Isabel

This Ingrid + Isabel dress is a game-changer when it comes to maternity workwear. It's like they heard all the needs of expectant parents and wrapped it up with a pro touch. So, here's the lowdown: that empire waist? It's like a big cozy hug for that growing bump, all while giving you that cool silhouette. And oh, that fabric? Super soft and stretchy. Imagine that—comfort to the max, even on those long office days.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL

Best Striped Work Dress

4. Cupshe Long Sleeve Mini Shirt Dress

What I Like

  • fitted yet flowy
  • machine washable

What I Don't Like

  • may run small

Cupshe

A collared shirtdress gives a classic, work-ready vibe that's appropriate for almost any professional setting. And this one's blue and white stripes keep it a touch more casual and not as stuffy, so you'll get plenty of wears out of it outside of the office. Did I mention it's also wrinkle-resistant?

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: S to XL

Best Sheath Dress for Work

5. Banana Republic Sculpted Sheath Dress

  • tall and petite sizing available
  • stretchy fabric
  • pinstripe details

  • one color

Banana Republic

Leave it to Banana Republic to create a dress that offers a classy structured silhouette that's also comfortable (thanks to the stretchy material). Not to mention its thin pinstripe detailing is absolutely adorable and offers a unique touch to an otherwise simple frock. It's like your trusty sidekick for those days when you want to rock a dependable, stylish and totally work-approved look. Get ready to own that office, my friend.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 18

Best Black Dress for Work

6. Mango Roma-Knit Sleeveless Dress

What I Like

  • simple black dress
  • rounded neck
  • professional

What I Don't Like

  • short if you're tall

Mango

An LBD can be totally work-appropriate when coupled with a simple, straight-lined design. This Mango dress is perfect to go from the boardroom to post-work happy hour. It's professional without feeling too stuffy and would look great with an oversized blazer for styling.You’re welcome in advance.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 12

Best Wrap Dress for Work

7. Tuckernuck Moonlit Iris Camille Dress

What I Like

  • vibrant colors
  • fully functional wrap
  • self-tie closure

What I Don't Like

  • expensive

Tuckernuck

This floral frock from Tuckernuck is destined to be the work dress you'll reach for when you’re yearning for a pop of color—without being too over the top. Its stylish details are also worth mentioning, with a classy V-neckline and midi length to keep things feeling and looking posh, sophisticated and ready for whatever the work day has in store for you.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XXL

Best A-Line Dress for Work

8. Loft Button V-Neck Mini Dress

What I Like

  • simple
  • button detailing
  • puffy sleeves

What I Don't Like

  • short on some

Loft

This button Loft poplin minidress is complete with a classic silhouette that says, "Hey, I mean business, but I also know how to look absolutely fabulous at all times." The combo of the V-neck and flattering a-line waist feels cute and professional, and the puffy short sleeves will help fight the dreaded office A/C during the warmer months.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 00 to 18

Best Amazon Work Dress

9. Grace Karin Pencil Dress

What I Like

  • stretchy
  • color variety
  • price

What I Don't Like

  • hand wash only

Grace Karin

With its classic sheath silhouette, this Grace Karin dress exudes sophistication with a modern edge. It’s available in several colorblocking hues for added contrast, plus a self-tie waist to serve as a stylish accent. The best part? The material offers plenty of stretch, which means you can count on this baby to keep you comfortable from your morning meeting to work happy hour.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to 3XL

Best Sleeveless Work Dress

10. Steve Madden Berlin Sleeveless Dress

What I Like

  • pockets
  • knee length
  • flattering

What I Don't Like

  • limited sizing

Steve Madden

Laid-back sophistication is the name of the game with this sleeveless Steve Madden dress. This exquisite piece effortlessly combines functionality and style to create a look that’s both chic and versatile. The dress also showcases a clever cinched waist that discretely hides an important detail—pockets! Not only is it flattering, but it allows you to slip in you phone during your next board room meeting without bringing your work bag with you.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to L

Most Comfortable Work Dress

11. Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Cap Sleeve Dress

What I Like

  • wrinkle resistant material
  • neutral color options
  • sustainably made

What I Don't Like

  • a bit simple

Quince

Made of a super-stretchy, double-knit ponte fabric, this Quince dress will leave you feeling ready for the day—any day—as the material resists wrinkling, pilling and fading. Talk about one less thing to stress about! The cinched waist and slight pleat detailing adds a little intrigue, while two pockets give it a relaxed look. It's available in four neutral colors and is relatively affordable, making it a great choice for a first office job.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL

Best Tweed Work Dress

12. Eliza J Bouclé Shift Dress

What I Like

  • boucle tweed material
  • cute buttons
  • short sleeves

What I Don't Like

  • pricey

Eliza J

“Captivating” is an understatement when it comes to this bouclé textured Eliza J dress. If you’re yearning for something a little different than a traditional tweed dress, you can count on this frock’s subtle, crystal-covered shamrocks to turn heads while still keeping things professional.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 8 to 16

Best Shirt Work Dress

13. Jenni Kayne Seersucker Shirt Dress

Jenni Kayne

Can a buttondown skew boho? And super comfy? Yes—and here's proof. This breezy shirt dress from Jenni Kayne will have you office-ready in one fellow swoop. It’s super ideal for a range of professional settings and is plenty versatile! Flats? Heels? Boots? Any shoe or accessory you pair it with will look fab.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to 3X

Most Unique Work Dress

14. Pomander Place Coco Dress

What I Like

  • unique style
  • bow detail
  • pockets

What I Don't Like

  • a bit pricey

Pomander Place

This elegant Pomander Place tweed bow dress from Tuckernuck effortlessly captures the essence of timeless sophistication with a contemporary twist and oversized fit, making it a standout choice for a chic work dress. Its playful bow detail adds a touch of whimsy and serves as a unique option to throw into your weekly wardrobe mix.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XXXL

Best Puff Sleeve Work Dress

15. Gentle Herd Tiered Dress

What I Like

  • available in five colors
  • breathable material

What I Don't Like

  • only available in three sizes

Gentle Herd

Prioritizing breathability? You’ll love this charming Gentle Herd tiered dress, which is crafted from 100 percent premium cotton. Its relaxed yet fashion-forward design features a playful tiered silhouette, making it suitable for a range of work environments—without skimping on an ounce of style.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: S to L

Best Bodycon Work Dress

16. Black Halo Enola Dress

What I Like

  • stretchy jersey material
  • bold

What I Don't Like

  • expensive

Black Halo

Love stretchy dresses? (Uh, don't we all?) Please let me introduce you to this stunning (and stretchy) Black Halo Enola sheath dress, which features ruched detailing and a high neckline. This frock will allow you to effortlessly move through your day with ease, courtesy of its flexible jersey fabric. Bonus perk: It comes with an attached scarf for a unique twist on its traditional sheath silhouette.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 14

Best Short Dress For Work

17. Old Navy Short-Sleeve Mini Shirt Dress

What I Like

  • budget-friendly
  • oversized
  • extended sizing

What I Don't Like

  • a bit casual

Old Navy

If you’re looking for something comfortable and contemporary while staying profesh, this Old Navy mini shirt dress fits the bill. It offers an oversized silhouette without feeling overwhelming. Plus, it's still long enough that you can pick up a pen without worry. The best part? It’s super budget-friendly—but no one would know!

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to 4XL

Frequently Asked Questions

What Dresses Are Suitable for Work?

“When I think of dresses suitable for work, I immediately think of easy midi styles,” says Benevenia. “Red flags in this category are anything tight, low-cut, and short. Green flags are dresses in seasonless fabrics that can be styled with an array of footwear and layered with various topper options like blazers, chunky sweaters, and leather jackets.” 

What to Look for in Work Dresses

“When searching for work dresses, look for fabrics that can be transitional across seasons, like denim, twill, and lightweight knits,” Benevenia suggests. “Midi styles will go for miles in your wardrobe because they can be worn with flats in the fall or boots as the temperatures begin to drop. Sleeveless jumper-style dresses are so versatile because they can be layered under blouses and chunky sweaters or over with leather jackets and blazers.” Ready to conquer all the seasons in style? You got it.

Where to Buy Work Dresses

Alright, let's talk about snagging those perfect work dresses—you've got a bunch of options to dive into. Think about the big names like Macy's, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale's—they're like treasure troves of choices. And hey, if you're all about that office-ready vibe, specialty spots like Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, J.Crew, and Loft have your back. But wait, there's more! We're talking about online havens like Amazon, Zappos, and ASOS – they're like your virtual fashion playgrounds, offering everything under the sun. And for those of you on the hunt for unique pieces, don't sleep on local boutiques and thrift stores—they can be home to some real hidden gems. And for a touch of luxe, brands like Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, and Kate Spade have got you covered with some seriously chic choices.


Brittany Gibson headshot

Freelance Writer

Brittany Gibson is a NYC- and CT-based freelance writer with a background in SEO. She has bylines in BuzzFeed, Insider, Real Simple, Reader’s Digest and more. When she’s not writing about products, you’ll likely find her trying out new coffee shops, hanging with her Maltipoo, Mochi, listening to Taylor Swift or scouring the internet for new petite fashion finds to fill her already-crowded closet with. Follow her on Instagram @brigibson. She has been writing for PureWow for half a year.

Courtney Campbell

Freelance Writer

Courtney covers all things shopping and lifestyle at PureWow. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Elon University and has spent more than five years of her career writing and editing shopping content. She has also tested everything from kombucha kits to standing desks for product reviews. With a passion for service journalism, she loves covering food, lifestyle and home content. You can follow her on Instagram or see more of her experience on LinkedIn.

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