I'm Not Wishing Autumn Away, But These Winter-Ready Dresses Are So Good

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 feel slightly confused during the autumn/winter season—and 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 our summer dresses are firmly in their vacuum bags, it's time to think about the ones that will tick all the boxes. With our help, you can find a frock that'll keep you feeling both chic and cosy during the chilly British winter. From Rixo's must-have wrap dress to Nanushka's high-neck classic, these are the dresses to buy from now and wear until spring.

Wrap Up

Wrap dresses aren't just for the summer months. Go for midi length, and make them work all year-round by adding ankle boots or knee-highs (preferably, animal print) now it's chillier. The V-neck style is also made for layering a polo neck top underneath—the possibilities for autumn/winter18 are literally endless with this one.

Heavier fabrics like velvet with all-over sequins will keep you warmer for an evening soirée.

Layer with a Breton top underneath and white ankle boots. 

Suede + Leather

Opt for a thicker material like suede or leather for instant warmth. When it reaches subzero, layer over long-sleeved tops and keep it belted to keep the chunkier fabric in check. Oh, and did we mention that everyone is wearing the leather trend already? Instant style kudos.

If you thought maxi (particularly floral) dresses were just for summer, think again. Make like Nnenna and layer a blazer over the top. They'll look just as good come winter with a teddy coat, too. 

You can wear hidden layers like thermal legging underneath when the chill comes, and no one will ever know.

It's the winter version of the must-have satin slip dress. 

Shirt Dresses Go South

Your shirt is going south for winter, with hemlines of shirtdresses dropping to maxi and midi lengths for the season. Style with mules for autumn, and for winter layer a slouchy grey knit over the top to style as a skirt, or leave open and layer over jeans. They're basically a two-for-one purchase.

Add a grey roll neck and slouch knee high boots underneath for day. 

The mint hue version has already sold out–we predict this one will be next. 

The clashing check makes it look super expensive. 

High-Neck Silhouettes

As hems get longer, necklines tend to reach further up too. Go for a funnel or roll-neck, and you'll be able to sacrifice the scarf for a little longer. A high neck is perfect for laying under collared styles like a trench coat (thanks for the inspiration, Tamu McPherson).

Just because it's getting colder doesn't mean you have to cover up completely. Minidresses are still everywhere, and they're the autumn to winter dress you need in your life. Add thick tights, over-the-knee boots, and a faux-fur jacket or coat for a truly retro look.

Very fabulous with bare legs and knee-high boots.

It may be a summer material but the shirt dress style is perfect for layering over roll neck knits with chunky boots. 

Still want to shop even more newness? Pick up your next winter It coat before they sell out.

Opening image: Style Stalker
