As much as we hate to say—or even think about it—summer is not going to last forever. While we've spent the last few months repping everything from Bermuda shorts and fairy dresses to Grecian draped dresses and square toe sandals, at some point, we have to start thinking about transitioning into fall. It's good to be prepared, after all.
You'll no doubt have seen that burgundy is emerging as next season's staple color, its wine-stained shade naturally mirroring the changing landscape. Unlike summery aqua blues and chili reds (2026's version of the viral tomato girl summer), this deeper color offers a warm and sophisticated alternative. It's versatile, too, as it can also act as a cozy neutral for more casual fits. Spring and summer's version of olive green, if you will.
As for how to style burgundy, it honestly all depends on what the occasion is. For example, heading out for a Sunday coffee? Try a cashmere V-neck and a pair of stovepipe jeans for a modern, timeless feel. Wrapping up for an evening in the beer garden? Try a merlot leather jacket and a cream turtleneck jumper. An autumn walk followed by a pub lunch? It's all about wine-red cord trousers with a shirt or (again), the turtleneck. But if you're out for a more sophisticated evening, and want an effortless sense of quiet luxury, turn your attention to midi ruffle dresses.
Zara has actually just dropped the perfect piece for the summer-to-fall transition, and it looks way more expensive than it is. Featuring a round neck and sleeveless design with gathered detail on the front, it also has a sultry leg slit that drops elegantly from the statement ruffle. The back of the dress — which retails for just under $80—has its own features to boast about. There's a subtle fastening at the top, complete with a chic opening that exposes the middle to lower back. Classy, timeless, and perfect for those city fall events that call for cool sophistication.
Scroll down for some of our other favorite burgundy pieces:
Sophie Williams is a Freelance Journalist and Copywriter, covering everything from Fashion to Entertainment to music, Lifestyle and Features. She has interviewed a range of musical artists and authors including Alyssa Edwards, Courtney Barnett, Confidence Man, The Vaccines, Loyle Carner, Gabrielle, and John Niven, and has written for publications like Metro, Reader's Digest, ITV's Woo! and Vice’s NBGA. She is also working on a book for HarperCollins about Taylor Swift, due to be published in 2024.
