STYLE & INSPIRATION

How to style
A DRESS IN WINTER

Spread the word – dresses aren't just for summer; they're for winter too! We might associate dresses with warm temperatures and long days, but they can be rocked all year. Although dresses can be worn throughout winter, a few handy tips and tricks will ensure you keep warm. Read on to learn how to style a dress in winter.

How to wear a long winter dress

Midi and maxi dresses are firm favourites for winter and come in a range of styles:

• Jumper dresses
• Ribbed dresses
• Long sleeve shirt dresses

But how do you style long winter dresses? Although they cover most of your legs, slipping on nude tights will bring extra warmth. Add some layers, like a chunky cardigan or cropped jumper, before choosing a coat. Pick a longline style to lock in heat, like a trench or wool coat, then top things off with a pair of chunky leather boots, a knitted scarf and a woolly hat.

How to wear short dresses in winter

That’s right; you can rock a mini dress in winter too! Our favourite short dresses for winter include:

• Polo neck dresses
• Tiered dresses
• Wrap dresses
• Tea dresses

Slip on your mini dress over a pair of thermal black tights before adding knitwear. Choose cropped or oversized knitwear, whatever works with your style.

Find a coat roughly the same length as your dress, like a mid-length aviator jacket or teddy coat. For the shoes, slip on knee-high boots for added warmth or keep things simple with chunky loafers. Accessorise your outfit with a crossbody bag and dainty jewellery like a watch and pendant necklace.

How to wear a summer dress in winter

Although summer dresses are designed to keep you cool, they can also be incorporated into winter looks.
Here are our top tips for wearing summer dresses in winter:

• Wear a polo neck underneath:
Layer strappy summer dresses over high-neck T-Shirts to create a warm base.

• Pop on a jumper:
For extra warmth, add a chunky jumper over your summer dress. Or how about a sweater vest for a retro feel?

• Pair with darker tones for a wintery feel:
Does your dress have a summery print? Team with darker colours, like burgundy or emerald, to create an outfit fit for winter.

• Utilise accessories:
Take advantage of warm accessories, like scarves, hats and gloves.
 

What to wear with a smart dress in winter

Wearing a smart dress in winter can be a challenge – how do you stay warm without looking too casual?
If you want to style a smart dress, we've got you covered, no matter the event.

The smart casual winter look

Got an upcoming event with a smart casual dress code? Wear your dress over nude tights, then add a cropped jumper and an overcoat for a dramatic silhouette. Finish the outfit with heeled leather boots and a matching bag.

The winter office outfit

Does your office have a smart dress code? Grab your dress and a pair of tights. Pop on your go-to blazer and a trench coat for a formal look that’s practical too. Heeled Chelsea boots are dressy but comfy to wear all day. With a leather tote bag, you'll easily carry your work essentials.

The winter event look
 
Whether a winter wedding or anniversary, dressing for formal winter events is tricky; we suggest layering a fur jacket over your smart dress for a cosy evening. Maintain an elegant silhouette with a pair of kitten-heeled boots worn over tights. Add a glamorous flourish with dazzling silver jewellery and an embellished clutch bag.


Follow our expert advice on how to style a dress in winter, and you'll look fabulous this season.
Keep your outfits on-trend by following our latest fashion edits.