Embrace the Season: Autumn Dresses 2016

As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp chill, it's time to update your wardrobe with the season's must-have dresses. Autumn 2016 brought us a delightful array of styles, colors, and fabrics that celebrate the spirit of the season. Let's delve into the key trends that graced the runways and high streets, and explore how you can incorporate them into your autumn repertoire.

Rich, Earthy Colors
Autumn 2016 was a symphony of rich, earthy hues that mirror the changing landscape. Burgundy, mustard, olive green, and deep blues dominated the palettes, providing ample opportunity to embrace the season's color story. These shades not only evoke the spirit of autumn but also create a striking contrast against the backdrop of falling leaves and fiery sunsets.

Burgundy: The Color of the Season
Burgundy was undoubtedly the standout color of autumn 2016. Designers from Valentino to Max Mara sent models down the runway in rich, velvety burgundy dresses that exuded elegance and sophistication. This deep red shade is versatile enough to be dressed up or down, making it an excellent investment piece for your autumn wardrobe.

Fabrics and Textures
Autumn 2016 was all about embracing the season's chill with luxurious fabrics and textures. From plush velvet to sumptuous wool, these fabrics not only keep you warm but also add a touch of opulence to your outfits. Layering was a key theme, with dresses often paired with turtleneck sweaters, blazers, or even coats for a stylish, put-together look.
Velvet: The Fabric of the Moment

Velvet made a strong comeback in autumn 2016, adding a touch of glamour and luxury to everyday dressing. From maxi dresses to mini shifts, velvet was seen in a variety of styles and colors. To keep the look from feeling too costume-y, opt for simple, clean silhouettes and pair your velvet dress with casual accessories like sneakers or ankle boots.
Key Trends
Beyond colors and fabrics, autumn 2016 offered a wealth of inspiring trends to draw from. Here are a few key looks that dominated the season:

- Puff Sleeves: A nod to the '80s, puff sleeves added a playful, feminine touch to autumn dresses. From romantic, floor-length gowns to casual, daytime shifts, this trend was seen in a variety of styles.
- Cold-Shoulder Necklines: The cold-shoulder trend showed no signs of abating in autumn 2016. This flirty, revealing neckline added a touch of sexiness to otherwise conservative dresses.
- Flared Sleeves: Bell sleeves and exaggerated, trumpet sleeves added a dramatic, statement-making touch to autumn dresses. This trend was particularly prominent in eveningwear, but was also seen in more casual, daytime styles.
Autumn Dresses: A Table of Inspiration















To help you navigate the wealth of autumn 2016 dress trends, we've compiled a table of inspiring looks. From casual daytime styles to elegant eveningwear, these dresses embody the spirit of the season.
| Style | Color/Print | Fabric/Texture | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maxi Dress | Burgundy | Velvet | Puff Sleeves |
| Shift Dress | Mustard | Wool | Cold-Shoulder Neckline |
| Evening Gown | Deep Blue | Satin | Flared Sleeves |
As you update your wardrobe for the new season, remember that the key to successful dressing is to embrace the trends that speak to your personal style. Whether you're drawn to the rich, earthy colors of autumn 2016 or the luxurious fabrics and textures, there's a dress out there that's perfect for you. So go ahead, embrace the season, and step out in style.