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The thought of wearing anything other than jeans (opens in new tab) or fleece-lined leggings (opens in new tab) between December and March is painful. But before you limit yourself to just a couple of default winter weather outfits, (opens in new tab) take note: the best winter dresses are worthy of your attention. We're talking about the thick-knit, long sleeve kind, full-coverage styles, often featuring a high neckline for extra warmth.
Luckily, there's no shortage of cute winter dresses for the cold season—this season, tons of ribbed, printed, faux-wrap, and velvet skin-covering styles abound. Also, easy-to-layer leather options that effortlessly transition from fall or to spring. Our favorites range from wedding and work-appropriate florals to casually cozy for WFH, weekends, and getaways. We've even included a couple of trendy cut-out designs when you're willing to bare just a hint of skin. (And if you're looking for affordable options that will be at your door quickly, consult our guide to the best winter dresses on Amazon.)
You'll look pulled together in five minutes after throwing on this pleated knit dress. We love it with square-toe leather boots and sculptural earrings for a sleek, modern moment.
This glitter-flecked ribbed knit midi dress is unquestionably the perfect chill-proof Valentine's Day dress. Pair yours with sheer tights and tall black leather boots for extra warmth.
Get your frill fix in this high-neck design by Batsheva. The Victorian-inspired aesthetic is a brand signature that we love to emphasize with pretty pearl jewelry.
Stay warm while looking timeless in this wool wrap dress by Johnathan Simkhai. It pairs flawlessly with boots of all kinds, from ivory leather to butterscotch suede.
Though warm and cozy in a knitted fabric, this dress offers an unexpected skin reveal via a back cut-out—style yours with heels for dinners out or a party.
Winter's version of the LBD most certainly requires a little more coverage, that is, if warmth is a concern. Enter: Victor Glemaud's off-the-shoulder wool dress, with a figure-skimming fit that's as alluring as your go-to micro-mini.
Winter wedding guest dresses seem harder to come by unless, of course, you have a Rixo design in your repertoire. Like this voluminous long-sleeve midi done in a dark floral print, with a high straight neckline and belted waist.
This show-stopping cardigan dress feels as cozy as your bathrobe with an infinitely more polished look. It's hand-knit from Korean acrylic yarn and comes in nine colors—choose your favorite hue or a few.
Lace is timeless and feminine, not to mention so luxe around the holidays or special events. Opt for this long-sleeve, high-neck pick with fleece-lined tights on chilly nights.
This velvet maxi epitomizes winter elegance. Offset the sweetness with a hefty boot. Or lean in with a slimmer heel.
Your most effortless winter dress is undoubtedly a ribbed style you can throw on and go. Even better, this vibrant cut-out design will brighten up dreary days, whether worn with sneakers or boots.
A moody winter floral is gorgeous for a feminine look. Though this long-sleeve style is lightweight, the high frilled neckline helps keep you warm, and even more so when layered over tights.
If you're going to go mini, make it a thickly woven dress, like this multicolored Staud style. Team it with the matching cardigan (opens in new tab) and knee-high lug-sole boots.
Mesh may not sound super warm, but when you're searching for a fun winter LBD, this one is easily a 10/10. The high rounded neck, long sleeves, and elongated hem offer great coverage while skimming your shape for a sleek n' chic look.
Yes, you can go off-the-shoulder in winter. This cashmere Reformation design is plenty warm and versatile for a night out, whether paired with classic knee-high boots or ankle-length lug-stole stompers.
Layer a bodysuit or fitted ribbed turtleneck under this vegan leather midi for a luxe winter look. Tall boots are our ultimate pick to finish, though you could opt for warm tights with strappy heels.
Cotton shirt dresses are lightweight and crisp in summer but look to a satin version come winter. With a luxe look, this long liquid-y style is versatile to wear day or night—layer a turtleneck bodysuit underneath with a blazer and suede boots for work, then swap for pumps, tights, and statement earrings after sunset.
You'll be breathtaking at your most formal winter events in this sequin LBD. If the scintillating sparkle weren't enough, the bow detail brings an extra wow factor.
Laura Lajiness Kaupke (opens in new tab) is a freelance writer and editor covering fashion, accessories, fine jewelry, and lifestyle topics, including beauty, home, fitness, and travel. You can see her work across various outlets, including VOGUE, Harper’s BAZAAR, ELLE, Glamour, Town&Country, InStyle, Esquire, Women’s Health, Brides, Refinery 29, Coveteur, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, Byrdie, WWD, Footwear News, Well+Good, The Editorialist, among other titles and brands. Laura has worked in the fashion industry for over 11 years and held senior fashion editor positions at Popsugar and The Zoe Report, with additional experience as a copywriter and fashion publicist.
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