Here’s Everything to Style with Winter Dresses
From knit styles to satin alternatives, you'll rely on them all season long.
Getting dressed in a cold-weather outfit to face ice-cold temperatures can be challenging. Multiple layers of clothing are often involved: Jeans shimmied over thermal pants or T-shirts and long-sleeve base layers shoved under sweaters. There's so much involved that you might need to pause and catch your breath after assembling your outfit. But there’s a more straightforward, streamlined solution to getting dressed for the elements. I’m talking about the best winter dresses that practically style themselves.
Style a great dress with the latest boot trends and a warm jacket or coat, and you will have a foolproof blueprint for a capsule wardrobe collection.
I’ve handpicked various street-style-inspired winter dress outfits, from casual knit styles that you can pair with teddy coats and sneakers to upscale satin dresses that look great with sleek blazers and heels. Scroll on to shop from brands like Theory, J.Crew, Banana Republic, and more.
Hiked-Up Hemlines
When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously.
Yes, you can wear a mini dress in the dead of winter. Simply style it to offer enough coverage—thigh-high boots and a durable leather trench coat should suffice.
Oh So Sweet
Chocolate brown will dominate the color trend cycle in 2025, so incorporate it into the look with a luxe winter dress in the shade. Add embellishments like a designer belt, slouchy boots, and an edgy, 80s-inspired bomber jacket.
A Winning Color Combination
Are you looking for a way to elevate a classic black dress? Consider accessories drenched in warm shades of mulled wine. The black-and-burgundy color combo is unmatched.
The Cozy Agenda
Although often worn for high-end occasions, a winter dress can totally lend itself to laid-back moments. For your next errand run, wear a snug slip-on dress with a fuzzy teddy coat and cushioned sneakers.
All Dressed Up
Master the cocktail attire dress code with a sumptuous satin or crepe dress styled beneath a blazer. Wear a faux fur coat or even a Yeti coat that embodies the beloved mob wife aesthetic if you need an additional layer.
Follow the It-Girl Lead
The street-style scene champions the loafers-and-socks hack, great for pairing with dresses. It’s straightforward, and most importantly, it feels refreshingly versatile.
Living Large
There’s something about this style maven’s lustrous leather coat and luxe knit dress that radiates wealth, falling into the rich-looking outfits category. The polished sunglasses, gold jewelry, and designer handbags also feed into the expensive vibe.
A Fusion of Fabrics
Despite what some might say, you can still make a statement with neutral colors. The key is to blend in different fabrics like silk and wool. Take things a step further with a pair of knee-high boots plastered in suede.
Late-Night Look
For your next evening outing, take a figure-hugging dress for a spin. Complete the look with a floor-sweeping cream coat and a pair of slingback heels, and this getup will become your new going-out outfit.
Nice and Toasty
There’s a common notion that dressing up means sacrificing comfort for style—but it doesn't have to be that way. Pair a winter dress with an oversized cardigan that feels like a blanket. Then, swap your heels for a pair of flat moto boots that are made for walking.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Lauren is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes trend reports, shopping pieces, and celebrity news stories. Prior to Marie Claire, Lauren worked for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE as a freelance editor with a specific focus on seasonal styles and coveted products. She also worked for Town & Country, where she developed a robust portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in journalism. While attending Penn, Lauren contributed to the university's fashion magazine, The Walk, while also interning for Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.
When she’s not exploring the world of fashion, you can find Lauren sharpening her skills as DJ, discovering new restaurants in New York City (she’s a foodie), and spending quality time with friends and family. Follow her along at @laurenktappan.
-
Gwyneth Paltrow Gives the Granola Look a Luxury Twist
Featuring a bright pink Chanel sweater.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Kaia Gerber Debuts Her Post-Breakup Style
Amid news of her split from Austin Butler, the model is sticking to her routines in New York City.
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
This Dated Denim Trend Is on Its Way Back—Here's How French Women Are Already Wearing It
By Michelle Scanga Published
-
These Aritzia Sale Finds Will Be the Backbone of My 2025 Wardrobe
New year, new clothes.
By Julia Marzovilla Published
-
I’m Refreshing My Winter Basics Wardrobe With Sale Finds From Banana Republic, Madewell, and Gap
Achieve a streamlined closet makeover without breaking the bank.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Faux Fur Coat Outfits to Look Put-Together—Even When It’s Freezing
Elevate your winter wardrobe in an instant.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
This Minimalist Winter Capsule Wardrobe Will Streamline Your Closet
From double-breasted wool coats to turtleneck sweaters, these are the only cold-weather pieces you need.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Craft Your Cozy Athleisure Outfits With These Sale Finds
Shop relaxed styles from J.Crew, Banana Republic, and Gap.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Fake the Old Money Aesthetic With These Rich-Looking Winter Outfits
Your guide to wealthy dressing awaits.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
15 Outfit Formulas to Get Katie Holmes’s Winter Style
Recreate her streamlined looks with cozy quilted coats, sleek knee-high boots, and more.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
I Found the Coziest Can’t-Miss Under-$250 Cashmere Deals to Shop This Winter
Black Friday might be over, but you can still stock up on these under-$250 picks.
By Lauren Tappan Last updated