black linen dress with sleeves The Oversized Puff-Sleeve calf length Maeve Short-Sleeve Linen Wrap-Back Slim

This maxi dress is feminine and dainty, but leather boots and a matching leather jacket give it a tomboy edge

Once more, the wealthy turn the tables by appropriating the clothing of the poor

As one tester put it: I really hate them they feel super cheap. Margauxs The Pointe from the same brand that makes some of our other picks is a napa leather shoe that comes in sizes up to a womens 14

Bold in fabric and refined in construction, this piece is a modern take on evening elegance

This plus size evening gown with sleeves features cinching at the waist creating a graceful draping for a sweeping skirt

If that seems like too brief a tour of how to wear minidresses, keep scrolling to see and shop the five outfit formulas that will mean you can wear your favourites into autumn (and perhaps even beyond)