While we might think of winter as the season of frozen fingertips, slippery streets and the time to wear lots of layers, the season also plays host to some of our favourite holidays. Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s Day all fall during frosty months, which means that warmth is an additional consideration when it comes to dressing up for them.
Many think this rules out wearing skirts and dresses, or that they can only be worn with a nice thick pair of winter leggings. However, there are actually many great ways to wear them and still stay warm.
Here are a few stylish choices which will still protect you when things get chilly.
Boot up
Yes, they take more effort to put on than sneakers or flats, but it will be worth the effort when your legs are protected from the harsh winter wind. Plus, they also look great when worn with skirts and dresses, even party dresses and midi-length ones. Longer-length dresses will of course offer your legs more protection, and there is nothing to stop you from adding a pair of tights underneath for an extra layer of warmth and comfort.
Pair it with a cosy sweater
A thick sweater is a great way to add an extra layer on top of your favourite dress without looking too bulky. Turtlenecks are a great way to go here as they always look chic and will keep your neck nice and warm too. Go for a neutral colour for easy pairing with any outfit.
Embrace the classics
At the end of the day, sweater dresses are a winter staple for a reason. While functional, they’re not exactly on the cutting edge of fashion. But even a neutral one can be jazzed up with a few simple details, like a belt to accentuate the waistline and a pair of chunky boots.
Pairing a dress with a long faux fur coat in a neutral colour is another tried-and-tested way to stay warm while looking fabulous. Go for one that’s really thick and warm, that way you can even slip into your favourite summer frocks to create a stylish contrast.
Vests and blazers are also good choices, and they offer a bit more scope for creativity and experimentation. Chosen well, a thick puffer vest or oversized blazer can look great layered on top of a dress for a functional yet interesting look.
Accessorise
Don’t think about hats, gloves and scarves as mere protection from the cold. They are certainly great for that, but they are also three more opportunities to elevate your look. Paired with a dress, opera gloves add a touch of glamour while keeping your arms warm. On the other hand, the right beanie can keep your head cosy while showing off your street-style savvy.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not difficult to keep wearing dresses throughout winter without sacrificing warmth. There is no need for your favourite frocks to remain in storage until spring rolls around. By embracing winter staples and using layers and accessories, you can easily create stylish winter looks that keep you snug.
