As the daily decision of going bare-legged and coat-free versus dusting off our trusty opaques and grabbing a cosy cover-up becomes ever more apparent (along with the contents of our handbag expanding to fit an umbrella, sunglasses and an extra emergency layer), it's no surprise that we all feel slightly confused during the autumn/winter season. This seems to be the case with dresses, too.
Can we still wear them? How do we wear them? And most importantly, which ones actually look good with tights? Now that our summer dresses are firmly in their vacuum bags, it's time to think about the ones that will tick all the boxes. With my help, you can find a frock that'll keep you feeling both chic and cosy during the chilly British winter. From COS's must-have knit dress to Aligne's leather number, these are the best winter dresses to buy now and wear until spring.
1. Knitted Dresses
Style Notes: If you're anything like me, the prospect of getting out of your bed in the morning is getting more unappealing by the day. Yes, we'd all like to stay wrapped up in our duvets, but, let me tell you, it's pretty hard to type when doing so. The next best thing? An oversized knitted dress, aka the hug of the frock world.
The definition of a throw-on-and-go dress.
Try belting this dress to change its aesthetic.
Navy knitwear always looks so premium and pairs well with every accessory colour I can think of.
This style might be more form-fitting, but the long sleeves and roll neckline ensure it's just as cosy.
2. Leather Dresses
Style Notes: Be it real or faux, a leather dress is a winter style essential. Not only do they look elevated, even with the simplest styling, but the thicker fabrication will keep you warm on even the chilliest of days.
This looks so much more expensive than it is.
If you prefer a more streamlined silhouette.
I've had my eye on this COS style for a while.
Try layering a striped long-sleeve top underneath this shirt dress.
3. Long-Sleeve Minidresses
Style Notes: Don't disregard minidresses just because it's winter—opt for styles with long sleeves (for obvious cosy purposes) and dark base colours that will pair more seamlessly with black tights.
No one does checks quite like Ganni.
I'm picturing this with tights and chunky knee boots.
This knitted mini also comes in classic black.
Is it a dress? Is it a cardigan? Either way, I love it.
4. Velvet Dresses
Style Notes: Akin to leather, thicker velvet fabrics will keep you warmer than, say, cotton blends. This is why velvet dresses are always so rife in the winter months. Plus, they can double up as excellent party dresses with just a few accessories. For day, try chunky loafers or knee boots.
This shade of evergreen optimises winter for me.
So fun!
Style with lug-sole boots for day and, yes, metallic platforms for night.
I'm smitten with these fluted sleeves.
5. High-Neck Dresses
Style Notes: The common theme of this article is finding ways to stay warm and look stylish in dresses this winter, which brings me to my next and final point: high necklines. Whether you choose ruffled, shirring or even a bow, a dress with a high neckline is going to keep you 100% warmer than a dress without one. That's just good sense.
A party dress you won't freeze in.
This would look incredible with burgundy or brown boots.
& Other Stories brings back this dress shape every winter.
This is too beautiful for words. Someone invite me to a winter wedding stat!
This piece was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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