For as long as I can remember, my wardrobe has consisted of approximately 75% dresses and, despite me getting older and (hopefully) wiser, I still continue to wear them even during the winter months, when everyone else is bundled up in jeans and jumpers. Let’s call it my ~signature style~.
While my mum might be concerned I’ll “catch my death”, over the years I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks for styling dresses no matter what the season. Summer is easy – a dress, some sandals and you’re good to go –spring and autumn, however, require a little more thought. I’ll usually wear trainers with my dress, and add a leather jacket or lightweight coat.
Winter is a different matter entirely though. Depending on how cold it gets, I might resort to thermals – but mostly I rely on trusty boots and some great cosy coats to get me through. You might consider me mad for insisting on wearing dresses when it’s snowing outside, but I’m not really a jeans person and trousers generally aren’t my thing. It’s not that I’m suffering in the name of fashion –it’s more about wearing what feels natural to me, and if that means bundling vests under my favourite dress? So be it.
1. Layer up
I always thought that ‘layering’ was one of those things I read about but never actually did myself, until I realised it’s the perfect way to style a frock. I don’t necessarily mean putting a thermal vest on under your dress (although that does work a treat), but having some fun with your style. For example, whether I’m wearing a short or midi dress, I’ll often throw a chunky jumper on over the top.
Polo neck jumpers look great under basically any dress, no matter what the neckline. I also try playing with my colour palette more in winter to add a little brightness to the day; so if I’m wearing a pink dress, I might add a red roll neck underneath.
2. Add tights
Look, I know not everyone is into tights, and I totally get that –they’re not really my thing, either. But, I have worn them underdresses before, and I have to say: I don’t hate the look. I tend to wear opaque ones (the higher the denier, the warmer the legs, right?) but a 10 denier pair look really cool with a shorter dress.
One thing you absolutely do not want is to be pulling your tights up constantly, so I’d recommend buying some with a shaping panel around the hips and waist – this makes them tighter, and less likely to fall down during the day.
Oh, and you’ll probably want to buy a slip to stop your dress sticking to your tights.
3. Wear with chunky boots
Hiking boots are everywhere right now, and they look so cool with a floaty midi, or even a satin style.
Size up, and buy some thick socks to wear underneath – you’ll be so glad of the extra warmth, and you won’t slip over when it’s icy. Win!
4. Mix knee-length boots with midi hemlines
If the sophisticated look is more your style, a pair of leather knee-high boots under a midi dress is the perfect styling trick.
Not only does it look seriously chic (Andy Sachs from The Devil Wears Prada is shaking), you won’t have to wear tights. Plus, a great pair of boots will last for years.
5. Shrug on a big coat
I know: duh. But never underestimate the power of a great oversized coat when it comes to added warmth. Go for classic brown or black and style with tonal shades of the same colour, or try a bright colour and mix your shades.
For added warmth and style kudos, double your jackets and put a leather one underneath.
6. Wear over trousers
The most genius of styling techniques; a dress and trousers. Double the layers! This look requires a flared or wide-leg style, and a more full-skirted dress – skinny jeans and body-con is not the one. It might take some practice to perfect this look, but let’s be honest; wearing your comfiest jeans under your favourite dress is worth it.
