Grazia’s How-To Style Guide for Wearing Long Dresses, Even in Winter
It's called functional fashion, look it up
VIENNA, AUSTRIA – NOVEMBER 25: Karin Teigl seen wearing black wool knit beanie, gold necklaces, H&M beige transparent embroidered long dress, H&M black oversized long coat, Louis Vuitton green leather logo pattern clutch bag and Louis Vuitton Archlight black leather / wood platform plateau boots, on November 25, 2023 in Vienna, Austria. (Photo by Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images)
When you think of a long dress you may think of a lightweight maxi or a simple yet chic cocktail dress, but what about in the winter months?
Long dresses aren’t just for warm weather. They can actually be a key winter wardrobe staple that exudes both sophistication and warmth (without having to tip the scale all the way to wearing a thick floor-length sweater dress or fancy gown).
That’s why we’ve put together a quick and easy style guide on how to wear long dresses *gracefully* and comfortably during the chilly months, ensuring you stay both stylish and cozy all season long!
Tips for Styling Long Dresses in the Winter
1. Layer Up:
VIENNA, AUSTRIA – NOVEMBER 25: Karin Teigl seen wearing black sunglasses, NA-KD cream white buttoned long knit dress, NA-KD beige shearling leather winter jacket, cream white wool knit small scarf, Louis Vuitton brown canvas logo pattern round bag and Louis Vuitton black leather / wood platform / plateau boots, on November 25, 2023 in Vienna, Austria. (Photo by Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images)
Opt for long-sleeved or turtleneck tops underneath your dress for added warmth.
Pair your dress with a tailored coat or a stylish faux fur jacket to elevate the winter vibe.
2. Texture Play:
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 11: Nicole Richie attends 2023 Baby2Baby Gala Presented By Paul Mitchell at Pacific Design Center on November 11, 2023 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Araya Doheny/Getty Images for Baby2Baby)
Experiment with textured tights or leggings to add an extra layer without compromising style.
3. Accessorize Thoughtfully:
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Leonie Hanne wears a brown long dress, a black leather shiny corset, black leather gloves, a brown long fluffy winter coat, black pointed boots, a black leather bag, outside Max Mara, during the Milan Fashion Week – Womenswear Spring/Summer 2024 on September 21, 2023 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
Throw on a chunky knit scarf or a statement belt to break the monotony and define your silhouette.
Long boots or ankle booties are not only fashionable but also practical for keeping your feet warm.
4. Bold Colors and Prints:
PARIS, FRANCE – JULY 04: A guest wears silver micro earrings, a dark green velvet shoulder-pads / short sleeves / large silver buttons / midi velvet dress, black straps heels sandals , outside Alexandre Vauthier, during the Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2023/2024 as part of Paris Fashion Week on July 04, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
Embrace rich, deep colors like burgundy, forest green, or navy to complement the winter season.
Don’t shy away from prints — floral, paisley, or even geometric patterns can add vibrancy to your winter wardrobe.
5. Hat Magic:
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – FEBRUARY 02: A guest wears a white wool ribbed beanie, black sunglasses, a black with white small borders long dress, a black oversized blazer jacket, a black nylon Reedition 2000 handbag from Prada, black shiny leather with embroidered white pattern block heels ankle boots , outside Gestuz, during the Copenhagen Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2023 on February 02, 2023 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
Elevate your look with a chic wide-brimmed hat or a cozy beanie, depending on the formality of the occasion.
6. Gloves and Statement Bags:
PARIS, FRANCE – OCTOBER 22: Emilie Joseph wears sunglasses, earrings, a shoulder turtleneck merino black wool maxi dress by COS in siren shape and long sleeves, paired with a cropped loop-knit wool hybrid jumper / bolero by COS, black leather long gloves, a Sac de Jour Saint Laurent bag, leather pumps in cherry red by Saint Laurent, during a street style fashion photo session, on October 22, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
Keep your hands warm with stylish gloves that match or contrast with your dress.
Opt for a structured or textured handbag to complete your ensemble and add a touch of winter glamour.
7. Evening Elegance:
PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 04: Leonie Hanne wears Dolce Gabanna x Kim Kardashian black sunglasses, Yves Saint Laurent black leather bag, black fake fur jacket, a black maxi long lace dress and black pointy heels shoes, outside Elie Saab show, during Paris Fashion Week on March 04, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images)
For formal events, choose long dresses with intricate detailing, such as lace or sequins, and pair them with a tailored coat or faux fur stole for added glamour.
8. Makeup and Hair:
PARIS, FRANCE – JULY 04: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY – For Non-Editorial use please seek approval from Fashion House) Sydney Sweeney attends the Giorgio Armani Privé Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2023/2024 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on July 04, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)
Opt for bold, dark lip colors and experiment with cozy, textured hairstyles to complement the winter aesthetic.
By following these tips, you can confidently embrace long dresses throughout the winter months, making a statement with your style, while staying warm and comfortable.
