It might seem counterintuitive that we’re starting to talk higher hem lengths as the temperatures drop, but the return of the minidress is undeniable. We saw so many excellent street style looks during show season (not to mention a leggy lineup at the Rotate Birger Christensen show in August), and we simply couldn’t forgo it any longer. Against our better judgement (that is, to put our legs into hibernation, razors and all), we can’t help but fall for this trend again.
Don’t worry—we’re not telling you to give up on those dependable midi dresses just yet, but for some reason, minidresses feel really modern right now. It may or may not have been kicked off by the fashion world’s obsession with Danish designer Cecilie Bahnsen, whose oversized quilted minis have couture-level details and are on everyone’s Net-a-Porter wish lists right now. Her playful proportions have been inspiring the street style set over the last few seasons, and she’s long been an advocate of clashing pretty dresses with "ugly” shoes.
So how to wear minidresses in 2019? Well, as the weather turns, they make the perfect addition to chunky Chelsea boots or cowboy boots. For weekends, we’re loving them with retro trainers and socks. For evenings, knee-high boots can’t be beaten for a slightly more glam (but still super cool) feel. Adding a blazer is a great way to make dresses smarter, even office appropriate we might say, but feel free to send this article to your boss if you get any funny looks. Keep scrolling for our favourite ways to wear the mini and to shop the best combos out now.
1. Minidress + Cowboy Boots
We love this oversized yellow style paired with Ganni’s iconic cowboy boots.
The way this showgoer balances having her legs out with a high-necked, long-sleeved mini is great. Let those legs shine.
Shop the Look
Told you Cecilie’s designs were perfect.
These boots are going straight onto my autumn wish list. They’ll go with everything.
2. Minidress + Chunky Boots
We love the pretty ruffles of this dress balanced out with lace-up chunky ankle boots.
This showgoer toughens up her hot-pink ’80s dress with the coolest biker boots.
Shop the Look
The perfect chunky Chelsea boots.
3. Minidress + Blazer
Tonal looks for the win. The blazer just tops this look off nicely.
An oversized shirt doubles up as a minidress. We love the pale blue–and-camel combo.
Shop the Look
Trust us when we say you’ll wear this camel blazer with everything.
Simple but effective, Les Heroines dresses are always such great quality. The high neck balances out maximum leg.
4. Minidress + Trainers + Socks
Turquoise and ruffles. We love how this showgoer has dress down her statement dress.
Classic trainers balance out a floral dress so it’s not too girly.
Shop the Look
We’ve never seen a leopard-print dress we didn’t like.
Weekday does the best ankle socks. Thank us later.
A classic we’ve seen on Ashley Olsen, Kate Moss and Pandora Sykes recently. Says it all, really.
5. Minidress + Knee-High Boots
These Fendi boots would make any outfit look good, to be fair.
A new, rougher take on a shirtdress.
Shop the Look
We’re buying this immediately. It’s a bargain you’ll wear all autumn.
The perfect boots. Need we say more?
Next, see autumn/winter 2019’s biggest trends in our ultimate guide.