4 Flowy Fall Fabrics for Dresses that Keep You Warm & Stylish

As the weather cools down, you may think you have to trade in your flowy, beautiful dresses for bulkier, heavier clothes. But that’s far from the truth. Fall can be a time to wrap up in fabrics that offer warmth while still allowing for that stylish, flowy silhouette. Whether you're dressing up for a fall gathering or just want to feel cozy and chic, there are plenty of fabric options that deliver both comfort and style. Here are four flowy fall fabrics, perfect for custom dresses that you'll love all season long.

1. Flannel

When you think of flannel, you might instantly picture plaid, but there's a key difference. Plaid is a pattern, while flannel is the fabric. Flannel is incredibly soft and can be found in a wide range of prints and solids, making it a versatile option for all types of styles. It's available in wool, cotton, and synthetic versions, giving you flexibility depending on your budget. Flannel can be made quite lightweight, so it keeps you warm without adding bulk, making it perfect for a flowy fall or winter dress.

2. Velvet

Most people love the soft directional feel of velvet, but it's also a great combo of warmth, while a being flowy, drapable fabric. You can choose between stretch and non-stretch velvet, depending the design of your dress--both will drape well. The luxury of velvet makes it a great choice for a fall evening or cocktail dress. While velvet was once made from silk, today it's crafted from both synthetic and natural fibers, so it’s more affordable and versatile than ever.

3. Double Cotton Gauze

Despite having “gauze” in its name, double cotton gauze is fully opaque and has a soft texture. This fabric is a bit lighter than flannel or velvet, but it’s still thick enough to be a cozy base layer for fall. Made from 100% cotton, it’s breathable and easy to care for—just toss it in the wash! You’ll often find double cotton gauze in solid colors, though there are printed options available as well. The fabric’s texture gives off a relaxed, natural vibe, making it a wonderful choice for casual fall dresses.

While many think of fall as the time to bundle up in heavy, lumpy clothing, there are plenty of fabric options that allow you to stay warm while still wearing flowy, stylish dresses. These fabrics offer a wonderful balance of warmth and movement. And we're a bit biased, but we think our flowy adjustable dress would look amazing in all of these fabrics.

4. Sweater Knit

Sweater knit fabric is a soft, stretchy material that has a similar weight as your favorite lightweight sweater. Despite its warmth, it still offers a soft drape, perfect for creating flowy dresses that keep you snug without feeling bulky. Sweater knits can be made from both synthetic and natural fibers, so you have plenty of options to find the perfect fit for your style and budget. This fabric is great for a casual, simple dress silhouettes.