Top 10 autumn dresses

A comfy knit but don't get too cosy. This dress needs a skinny black belt for ultimate waist definition.

Dress, £39.99, by Zara

Photograph: Zara

Heavy of fabric and a slightly trickier length than most. Wear with towering heels to maximise leg length.

Dress, £125, by Cos. cosstores.com

Photograph: Cos

A bit racy, granted, but perfect as a day to night option.

Lace detail dress, £69.90, by Mango, from mango.com

Photograph: Mango

Gucci on a plate, baby, Gucci on a plate. Do the label proud by styling this up with a faux fur shrug.

Polka dot dress, £95, by Monsoon

Photograph: Monsoon

Unlike its midi sister, the mini doesn't require a heel; in fact, flatties gives it maximum gamine points. If leg exposure's not your thing, do like Balenciaga and wear it as a tunic with trousers.

Flamingo print dress, £81, by Biba, from House of Fraser

Photograph: House of Fraser

A clever print which is shaded in all the right areas. Already has an elasticated waistband but maximise the flattering potential of this dress with a slim belt.

Leaf print dress, £80, by Topshop.

Photograph: Topshop

Despite its bright colour, this dress is still something of a blank canvas. Dress up the neckline with a simple piece of statement jewellery, or, for full fashion points, a faux fur collar.

Skater dress, £45, by very.co.uk

Photograph: very.co.uk

Channel your inner Joanna Kramer by pairing this dress with knee high boots and an insouciant trench.

Orange dress, £65, by Wallis.

Photograph: Wallis

There's plenty enough going on with this dress so keep accessories to a minimum.

Polka dot dress, £175, by Whistles, whistles.co.uk.

Photograph: Whistles

A sort of dress version of this season's sleeveless blazer. Wear with an cream polo neck knit for an instant winter update.

Sleeveless dress, £99, by Hobbs.

Photograph: Hobbs