Why Smocked Dresses Are the Ultimate Summer-to-Fall Staple

If you’ve been loving Bella Hadid’s Western era, try this Reformation gingham dress. The breezy, puff-sleeve silhouette pairs seamlessly with cowboy boots for an instant outfit that works year-round.

Puff sleeves and ruffle trim add a charming touch to this smocked mini from Damson Madder. Offset the classic plaid with leather outerwear and moto boots for an edgier finish.

A chunky knit or chore coat layered over this Tory Burch dress will take it from vacation-ready to cold-weather staple in seconds. Shop it now while it’s 40 percent off.

Hill House Home’s Nap Dresses deserve every bit of their cult status. Stretchy smocking ensures comfort, while delicate prints and details make them polished enough for special occasions.

Ganni has been turning out smocked dresses for seasons, but the brand’s signature puff-sleeve, ruffle-neck silhouette feels fresh in faded denim.

This bra-friendly smocked dress works with everything—from flip-flops and a raffia bag to ballet flats and a blazer to boots and a slouchy cardigan.

Layer this smocked chambray midi under a jean jacket for a fresh take on double denim. The dark wash also contrasts beautifully with a crisp white button-up or cream knit.

Embrace the bohemian spirit of the season in this mixed-print maxi from Farm Rio. Comfortable and effortless to wear, it can be dressed up or down for nearly any occasion.

White maxi skirts and drop-waist dresses have emerged as hero pieces this year. Pitusa’s creation channels both—ideal for the tail end of summer and equally sharp when worn with a blazer come fall.

With so many accent colors to play off of, this scarf-inspired floral midi will be a cinch to style with the rest of your wardrobe.

Pair this crisp cotton midi with sweaters and boots through winter, then revisit it next spring with sandals.

This drop-waist J.Crew number is the ultimate fall wedding guest dress. With the right styling, it suits everything from a casual backyard ceremony to a more formal event.

Fashion insiders expect the butter yellow craze to continue well into fall. Thankfully, this Rag & Bone maxi pairs just as nicely with brown suede boots and outerwear as it does with strappy sandals and a beach hat.

If you find layering tricky, this Ciao Lucia dress is the perfect solution. Its smocked bodice slips easily under cardigans, light jackets, and pullover knits.