Between Netflix's Too Much, the Taylor Swift-led Dôen craze, and Amaya's iconic mumu moment on Love Island, nightgowns have had the comeback of a century this year. And as we edge toward fall, summer's breeziest trend has only continued to pick up steam with brands like Helsa and Reformation pushing out picnic-coded styles of their own.
Even as the temperatures start to drop (whenever that will be), I can tell you with absolute certainty that your poplin nightgown will still be very much in style. But instead of wearing it with strappy sandals and a rattan hat, you'll be wearing yours with cardigans and loafers. In fact, I'd dare say it's the ultimate summer-to-fall transitional piece, because it wears just as well with the latter as it does the former.
Ahead, I'm breaking down all the chicest ways to wear nightgown-inspired dresses for the fall season—as a dedicated nightie fan myself.
Over a Pair of Baggy Jeans
As a proud chaotic dresser, I'm of the personal belief that any dress can be worn over a pair of jeans if you believe in yourself. But poplin nightgowns are particularly good for this look due to their tent-like fit, which leaves plenty of room for layering.
With Statement Socks and Loafers
A good pair of loafers can autumn-ify pretty much anything in seconds. Wear them with your favorite nightie, then add colorful socks, beaded necklaces, and a leopard print bag for a whimsical (yet seasonally appropriate) fall outfit.
With Ballet Flats and a Wicker Bag
Poplin dresses don't cease to be stylish the second the weather hits 60 degrees and neither do wicker bags. Bring them both into the fall season, along with your best pair of square-toe flats.
Under a Sporty Windbreaker
A note from the editor (me): Any advice I give you in this article can also be applied to your favorite lace-trimmed slip dress. Like a poplin nightie, these babies also look great layered under a sporty windbreaker or anorak. The contrast of soft and rugged feels so eclectic-cool.
Under a Pinstriped Blazer
This fall styling tip is as timeless as the season itself. Pop a boxy blazer on over your dress of choice for an immediate weather adaptation. Finish with loafers and big ol' sunglasses for that fashion-editor-running-to-a-show vibe.
With a Chic Knotted Sweater
For added warmth without added bulk, knot a soft knit around your shoulders. It looks incredibly chic and is, at the same time, incredibly functional—and the same goes for a good pair of statement socks.
Under a Leather Jacket
Leather and poplin is an underutilized pairing that actually looks so great when styled like this. The mix of textures gives off a Scandinavian sort of vibe that feels so Copenhagen-coded.
Try a Little Print Mixing
If your nightie comes equipped with a pretty floral print, try playing off that energy with a statement bag to match. Go for a contrasting pattern, like lace or zebra, to give your look a playful feel.
With Posh Cream-Colored Accessories
A lot of the outfits above are bold and funky, but don't sleep on monochromatic styling. Cream-colored accessories will make this laid-back dress style feel polished and elegant. Think less bedtime and more work time.
Kelsey (she/her) is a freelance digital fashion editor and writer with a knack for turning top-performing content into top-selling content. She has extensive experience in editorial and e-commerce strategy, having worked in both divisions during her years at Seventeen and Bustle. With more than a decade of experience in digital media, she also offers creative and social media consulting, as well as copywriting services. She enjoys cheeseburgers, traveling, and vintage hauls. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.
