Style your favorite sweater dress this winter

Many people hesitate to wear dresses during the winter because it’s so cold. While this is understandable, don’t discount the coziness of a sweater dress and the right winter accessories. These dresses are so versatile and can be worn from the fall until the early spring. If you’re looking for a casual dress to wear on the weekend or something professional for the office, look no further than that trusty sweater dress hanging in your closet. 

Here are some tips and style ideas for rocking it like a runway model:

Wear slim bottoms

If it’s blustery outside, the last thing to do is go outside with bare legs. Luckily, sweater dresses are perfect to improvise with! If your dress is short – hitting above your knee – you can actually wear jeans with it, as long as they’re tapered. Opt for a pair of skinny dress pants or ankle-length jeans. Leggings and opaque tights are also great options for this time of year, and can fit into your riding boots for a polished look, or wedge ankle boots for something a little dressier.

Go bottomless

If you live in an area without frigid winters, just a brisk fall breeze, you don’t have to wear bottoms with your sweater dresses at all, when the dress is long enough to wear appropriately. Try pairing this look with tall socks and leather riding boots that match your hobo bag for an outfit that’s laid back and put together at the same time. For something more casual, wear a pair of matching sneakers or ankle boots with bare legs. This is one of the most comfortable outfits you could put together!

Cinch it

Some sweater dresses are more fitted than others. If you prefer a looser fit, but don’t want to appear shapeless, you can cinch the waist and highlight that hourglass figure with a belt or a flannel tied around your waist. For a boho look, try a Western-style or fringe belt, but for something preppier, a thin leather belt is always a classic option, as is a stretchy wide belt. This look is fashion function at its finest!

Look elegant and edgy

Wear a slip with a lacy bottom that ends just above the knee. Pair it with a sweater dress that is in the same color palette as the slip but a little shorter to allow for just a peek of the lace. Add a leather jacket and boots and you’ve got a kicky outfit. If your hair holds curl, get big with voluminous curls for some extra texture.

Be bold and professional

Go monochromatic for this look. Try a black, knee-length turtleneck sweater dress with black tights. Add a belt to your natural waist and some black pumps for extra height and confidence. Put on some earrings and you’re good to go!

Kick back and relax

For a warm weekend look, pair your sweater dress with leggings, ballet flats or sneakers and a scarf and you’re ready to go! This is a great look for cheering on sports teams at outside games because it is cozy and comfortable. You can even find a sweater dress that comes in your team colors or has a large number to really get into the game. Add a knit slouchy cap to keep your head nice and toasty!

Show your artsy side

Go for a simple sweater dress with a cowl neck and shoulder cutouts. You’ll stay warm but look cool. Pair it with some high-heeled ankle boots and a statement ring that is big and colorful. This is a perfect outfit for a date or going to a show. Pile your hair on top of your head in a messy bun and secure it with chopsticks for additional artsy flair.