The temperatures are dropping, the days are getting shorter and just as the arrival of winter is inevitable, so is my rapid slip into an outfit rotation of jeans and jumpers. This year, I'm determined to get myself out of this cycle, and make this the winter that I finally find dresses that are just as easy to style as my beloved denim and knitwear. Thankfully, this year it seems that brands of every variety, from high street favourites to designer stars, are really stepping up their game when it comes to winter dresses. The odds are in my favour.
To meet my definition of "perfect winter dress," the style needs to deliver on a few fronts. As someone who leans more towards minimalist styles, it needs to look understatedly chic, in classic hues that ensure I'll be able to pull the dress out for future cold seasons. It needs to be versatile, so that I can style it with a mix of my jackets, coats, footwear and accessories to make it feel fresh and to make it work for a number of different situations and occasions. And finally, it needs to be practical, whether that means its a cosy knit dress or a style that can be layered with jumpers when it gets especially crisp.
Whatever your budget, and whatever your personal style, I'm confident you'll find your perfect winter dress this season. From Mango's simple knit midis to Khaite's striped style, Zara's cord minis to Doen's vintage-inspired designs, there's plenty to choose from—and this is my pick of the very vest.
BEST HIGH-STREET WINTER DRESSES 2024 UNDER £120:
Perfect for evening wear, but you could easily make it work appropriate by styling with an oversized blazer.
A chunky turtleneck dress is such an easy throw-on style, but this asymmetric hem really sets it apart.
This entire outfit is just perfect for when you don't know what to wear!
Red is the colour of the season, and this wool midi is such a chic way to boldly embrace the trend.
A fantastic price.
The contrast trim is such a great touch.
Leopard is a huge print trend this season.
Is there anything more elevated than a cream knit?
The drape of this dress is stunning—and you could easily style it for day or night.
Yes to this whole outfit.
Such a versatile dress that you could style for so many occasions.
I'm a sucker for a slinky slip dress.
What a colour!
A denim dress is such a cool style. I'd pair this with loafers or lug-sole boots.
BEST MID-RANGE WINTER DRESSES 2024
I've already spotted so many influencers in this exact dress.
Add knee high boots and a leather jacket and you're set.
Stunning.
The kind of mini you could wear to work and date night.
I plan on making this my go-to professional dress.
I'm a huge fan of Damson Madder's vintage-inspired prints.
A very on-trend colour this season.
Cosy and chic.
Style with tights and boots when the temperatures really drop.
Ultimate cosiness.
A cashmere mini is so luxe.
Brown is one of my all-time favourite colours.
In case you missed it, chocolate brown is big news this winter.
This floral midi looks great with moto boots as proven above.
BEST DESIGNER WINTER DRESSES 2024
This gingham dress will carry you through all seasons.
House of Dagmar is one of my favourite destinations for wardrobe heroes that I'll love and wear forever.
The kind of effortless sophistication you can always expect from Toteme.
The prettiest print ofr winter.
The perfect balance of sexy and sleek.
A silk and cashmere blend dress? Oh, yes.
A Breton stripe will always be in fashion.
Layer exactly like this with a knit that you could pull on when the wind picks up.
The most beautiful hue.
The kind of dress you'll find endless ways to style.
Undeniably elegant.
Joseph always delivers stunning cashmere pieces.
A winter dream. Pair yours with this season's trending outerwear—the suede jacket.
Another DÔEN number that I am very tempted by...
