Sarah Jessica Parker’s Sundress Layering Hack Is Perfect for Fall

Parting with my favorite summer dresses come fall is such sweet sorrow, which is why I’m copying Sarah Jessica Parker’s clever styling hack to keep them in rotation for just a bit longer.

On September 23, the actress served a masterclass in fall layering when sitting on the judging panel for the 2025 Booker Prize, and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about her outfit since. For the occasion, Parker took a classic black midi dress from summer-ready to autumn-appropriate by layering it over a billowy white puff-sleeve blouse — a look I plan to copy when navigating transitional weather.

Whether you’re looking to add more warmth or more coverage to a breezy sundress, Parker’s outfit is the easy fall formula you should add to your wardrobe lineup. Below, score pieces inspired by her look starting at $20.

Sarah Jessica Parker’s Outfit Blueprint

Old Navy Fit and Flare Sleeveless Denim Midi Dress

This little black dress resembles Parker’s thanks to its polished square neckline and midi length, and it’s currently on sale for just $20. I love that its denim material calls to mind dresses we’ve seen on Meghan Markle and Kristin Chenoweth, and that it comes in regular, petite, and tall lengths (my 5’11” frame is very appreciative). Copy the actress by throwing it over a long-sleeve top, or wear it on its own — with or without a cardigan draped over your shoulders — on warmer fall days.

Gap Factory Relaxed Puff-Sleeve Lace Top

As someone who prefers clothes to be as unrestrictive as possible, I adore that this billowy blouse is relaxed without looking sloppy — a must for any work wardrobe. Its voluminous puff sleeves look just like Parker’s top, and it comes in three wear-with-anything colors: black, white, and beige floral. One shopper called it a great top for “transitioning” weather, while another praised its “very comfortable” fit.

Musshoe Flats

While Parker accessorized her outfit with a pair of sky-high, Carrie Bradshaw-coded heels, I’m personally much more of a flats girl. The ideal midpoint between SJP’s taste and my own? These snakeskin flats from Amazon. They come in sizes 6 to 11, and they’ve amassed more than 2,900 five-star ratings for their stylish design and supportive feel. In fact, one shopper even explained that they walked “25 miles” in the shoes during a work conference and “did not experience any soreness or blisters.” 

Want to join me in copying Sarah Jessica Parker’s easy fall outfit formula? Keep scrolling to shop more black dresses, white blouses, and snakeskin shoes below. 

Sanctuary Lucky You Dress

Zesica Square-Neck Dress

Quince Tencel Jersey Fit and Flare Dress

Aqua Lace Trim Blouse

Btfbm Satin Button-Up Blouse, $26 at checkout

Journee Paulina Pump, $48 with code CRISP