Is there anything more joyful than wearing an item of clothing that's warm and comfortable but still manages to look chic? That, my friends, is the winter dress. It is usually longer and heavier than its summer sister, in sumptuous and tactile fabrics such as velvet and satin. They often come in darker, more mysterious hues—from deep blacks and navy to sparkling metallics. Shorter hems don't require much effort either—you can throw on a pair of 40 deniers and be done with it. No messing about. I know what you're thinking: I'm going a little overboard on my love for the winter dress, however, it really is the greatest gift to us all during the colder months.
When it gets really freezing, you just simply layer a great roll-neck underneath (preferably a black or white version) add tights, a coat and boots and you're warm yet look great. While dark florals are definitely the most talked-about trend of the autumn/winter 2019 season, there are plenty of other styles from more inexpensive labels to the high-end fashion houses.
My personal favourites include a long-sleeved dress from Rixo's new '70s-style prints collection, a dark checked prairie dress from Mango and an incredible dark floral dress from ASOS that comes with bold puffed sleeves—ideal if you don't want to wear something too twee. Finally, my preferred boots of choice are black bikers, but it's all about comfort here, so any pair that you can walk a lot in are ideal. Keep scrolling for my edit of the best winter dresses.
For work, parties or Christmas day. This dress will and can be worn for literally every event you have in winter.
A great all-rounder from Rixo, but maybe one to save for a night out with friends.
H&M's dress collection right now is brilliant.
The shorter sleeves will be too cold come full winter, but layer a long-sleeved T-shirt underneath and you're all set.
Tap into the dark floral dress trend.
Cosy yet formfitting.
Another winner from Ganni.
Related: Alexa Chung Just Wore the Coolest Dress-and–Ankle Boot Combo in Paris
Pair this dress with white boots to make it stand out even more.
While this dress might be high street, its simplicity makes it appear much more expensive.
For those who have a more classic style, this one's for you.
For those who are more minimalistic, this dress is super chic.
Got a winter wedding coming up? This is ideal.
The Rixo dress I've got my eye on.
The prairie trend over summer is carried on via this darker version.
What's a collection of winter dresses without a bit of crushed velvet?
This is one of the chicest ways to wear leather right now.
Related: These Cult Boots Have Been Best Sellers for Over 60 Years
If you're into stripes, this one's for you.
I can't stop thinking about this Goth-inspired frock.
This dress looks way more than its £49 price tag.
Festive but will also work throughout the whole of winter. Wear this one with a pair of biker boots.
Roksanda never lets us down when it comes to outstanding dresses.
A more interesting way to do florals.
Rotate Birger Christensen creates such fun dresses. This purple one is no exception.
The tie neck and the puffed sleeves, not to mention the dark floral style, make sure this dress ticks loads of A/W 2019 trend boxes.
Of course, Zara has an excellent range of winter dresses.
Everyone on the Who What Wear UK team loves this dress.
Ganni and leopard print are always winners.
Wear with Converse for the weekend and heels for a party.
Want more? Check out the six winter wedding guest outfits that will earn you best-dressed status.
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