That sundress you wore all summer? It doesn’t have to disappear into the back of your closet come September. With a few simple additions, you can keep wearing it through chilly mornings and crisp afternoons. Here are five ways to make your go-to summer dress work for fall.

Layer It with a Chunky Knit Sweater
Toss a thick, oversized sweater over your dress for an easy, cozy look. Choose a neutral tone like camel, cream, or charcoal gray to balance a bright floral or solid summer color. Let the dress hem peek out a few inches below the sweater, and add tights or knee-high boots to keep your legs warm. It’s an effortless way to bring texture and warmth without losing the dress’s silhouette.

Add a Leather Jacket and Ankle Boots
Nothing says fall like a cropped black or brown leather jacket. Throw it on over a slip dress or a cotton sundress for instant edge. Finish with chunky ankle boots—block heels work well for daytime, while lace-up styles feel urban and cool. This combo transitions the dress from a beachy vibe to one perfect for brunch or evening errands. If the jacket feels too heavy, try a denim or corduroy version instead.

Wrap a Scarf Around Your Neck
A lightweight scarf can instantly change the mood of your dress. Tuck a silk scarf into a cardigan or tie a chunky knit scarf loosely around your neck to add a splash of autumn color—think rust, olive, or deep burgundy. This works especially well with solid-colored dresses or those with small prints, as the scarf becomes the focal point. It also helps block cooler wind on your chest while keeping the dress exposed elsewhere for airflow.

Wear It Over a Turtleneck or Long-Sleeve Top
Turn your dress into a jumper style by slipping a fitted turtleneck or thin long-sleeve shirt underneath. Pull the dress over it, leaving the sleeves and neckline visible. This trick works best with sleeveless or short-sleeved dresses. Pair it with opaque tights and flat boots or loafers. It’s a practical move that keeps your core warm without adding bulk, and it gives your dress a whole new look with zero sewing required.

Accessorize with Fall Staples
Swap your summer sandals for suede booties or heeled oxfords. Add a wide-brimmed felt hat and a leather belt to cinch the waist over a relaxed dress. Carry a structured handbag in cognac or forest green instead of a straw tote. These small changes shift the dress’s temperature perception and make it feel deliberately seasonal. Layer a denim or wool vest over the dress for extra warmth if needed.

Each of these methods lets you keep wearing what you love while adapting to the turning leaves and cooler breezes. Try one or combine a few—your summer dress will feel new again.