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The thought of wearing anything other than jeans or fleece-lined leggings during the months of December, January, February, and March is painful, I know. But before anyone limits themselves to just two garments, I'm making the case for wearing dresses this winter: thick knits and velvet maxis and turtlenecks that will keep you warm—and looking presentable. Luckily, there's no shortage of cute dresses for this season. I even found one made completely of cashmere. Is it snowing yet?
1
A Sleeve-Belt Dress
Whimsy + Row dress, $158
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For a plain gray ribbed dress, this Whimsy + Row piece has a lot of character, thanks to the faux-sleeve belt. There's also a peek-a-boo back (you can't see it in this photo) making it a must-buy imo. Wear with Chelsea ankle boots and a leather jacket.
2
A Sexy Silk Number for Date Night
Something Navy tie front dress, $89
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Arielle Charnes of Something Navy created the dreamiest silk dress for winter date nights—like a chic robe you can wear outside! Pair the look with tights, your favorite knee-high black suede boots, and a glass of red wine.
3
An Asymmetrical Shirtdress
Topshop check shirtdress, $210
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You could wear this shirtdress alone with boots...or you could layer it over pants. Whether you go with jeans or printed bottoms, the dress's gathered hemline will show off the piece underneath. A tidy collar and long-sleeves keep the look appropriate for both work and play.
4
A Cashmere Dress
Lewit cashmere dress, $399
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My cashmere sweaters feel like warm hugs, so I can only imagine how comfortable my whole body would be in this cashmere sweater dress. Simple, clean, elegant: This is the kind of dress you don't have to dress up, it looks fabulous as-is. Style with white ankle booties and tiny gold hoop earrings.
5
A Leopard Print Dress
Wayf velvet wrap dress, $100
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This wrap dress just might be your spirit animal. The long-sleeve dress comes in an ankle-grazing length (perfect for those long office-to-holiday-party days) and a rich brown hue that actually makes it a neutral. Wear with a black wool coat.
6
A Bohemian-Inspired Dress
Mango floral vintage dress, $120
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Keep the summer spirit alive in your winter wardrobe by slipping into this floral dress. The dark colors fit perfectly with the moodiness of the season, but the print is still whimsical. Let this dress transport you to a different place (the flower fields of a distant country perhaps?).
7
A Turtleneck Dress
Diane von Furstenberg dress, $498
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Embrace turtleneck weather in this knit DVF dress. Though full-coverage, cutouts on the sleeves and hemline and a figure-hugging hugging silhouette make it super sexy. Wear with thick black tights and boots for extra warmth.
8
Your New M-F Dress
Aritzia babaton patricio dress, $148
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Introducing the winter counterpart to your favorite summer T-shirt dress: This wool-cashmere blend shift dress comes in an innocuous print, perfect for even the most conservative of offices. Pair with a blazer, tights, and slouchy black boots for a stylish work ensemble.
9
A Winter Wedding Guest Dress
Misa madalina dress, $462
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Fancy enough to wear to weddings, Misa's "Madalina" dress features metallic pinstripes and hand-embroidered sequin flower accents. Braided gold trim highlights the deep v-neckline, while the belt shows off your waistline. Wear with strappy heels to that winter wedding or schmancy NYE party you're attending.
10
The Perfect Layering Piece
Habitual pippa dress, $188
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This dress might look shapeless, but don't doubt the power of the built-in belt. Once cinched, the dress reveals some well thought-out folds on the front and a hidden side cutout...WHICH will show off your boots or jeans, if you choose—as you should—to wear a pair of bottoms underneath. Cover up with a long, gray cashmere cardigan.
11
A Holiday Party Minidress
H&M velour dress, $50
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Velour sweatpants? Only for your couch. Velour minidresses? For everywhere else. Pull this on with opaque black tights and flats, then go holiday party–hopping. Style with gold jewelry or diamond studs, but no need to over accessorize, as this dress already holds the spotlight.
12
A Winter Knit Dress
Zara knit dress, $50
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Embracing winter white has never been easier. The minimalist style gives you the opportunity to play up other aspects of your outfit. Draw attention to your gorgeous face with this single Cloverpost pearl earring or surprise everyone with your footwear choice—I recommend these Kalda boots. This dress will also look great against a snowy background for Instagram. Just saying.
