From the classic little black dress to flowing statement gowns or your favorite casual sundress, there’s no doubting the versatility of a dress. However, part of the fun of styling looks around your favorite piece is finding out what to wear over a dress – whether that’s to keep warm or just to curate a stunning layering moment for your next outing.
Fashion is not just about the dress you wear but also about how you layer it. The art of layering can elevate your outfit, add warmth, and create a versatile wardrobe. Whether you’re dressing for a casual day out, a formal event, or transitioning through seasons, the right outerwear can make all the difference. Here’s your ultimate guide to dress layering for fun, function and fashion.
Jackets Are Versatile and Chic
A classic denim jacket is a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down – plus, it’s perfect for winter. It adds a casual, edgy touch to any dress. Suited for daytime outings, picnics, or brunches, a denim jacket pairs well with floral dresses, maxi dresses, or even a little black dress, depending on what sort of vibe you’re trying to conjure up with this fit. Choose a fitted denim jacket for a sleek look. Or, go oversized for a trendy, relaxed vibe.
If you like a touch of rebellion and style, a leather jacket is your next style go-to. It instantly toughens up a feminine dress, creating a balanced, chic look. Leather jackets go great over a dress when you’re styling for evening outings or casual dates. They work well with fit-and-flare dresses, bodycon dresses, and even flowy, bohemian styles.
Blazers aren’t just for the office anymore. A well-tailored blazer can elevate your dress, making it suitable for professional settings or formal events. Consider neutral colors like black, navy, or beige for versatility, or choose a bold color to make a statement. Blazers pair excellently with shift dresses, sheath dresses, and tailored midi dresses.
Cardigans Are Cozy and Comfortable
For a cozy, layered look, long cardigans are a fantastic choice. They add a touch of elegance while keeping you warm. Perfect for casual settings, they pair well with maxi dresses, knitted dresses, and summer dresses during cooler evenings.
During fall and winter, chunky knit cardigans are a must-have. Depending on their style, you’ll find it bringing texture and warmth to the look, creating a comfy and stylish ensemble. Pair them with sweater dresses or fit-and-flare dresses for a balanced silhouette.
Button-up cardigans, meanwhile, always offer versatility. You can wear them open for a relaxed look or buttoned up for a more polished appearance. They work well with A-line dresses, wrap dresses, and casual sundresses.
Elegant Coats For Sophistication
The timeless trench coat adds a layer of sophistication to any dress. It’s perfect for transitional weather, providing light coverage without overwhelming your outfit. Ideal for sheath dresses, wrap dresses, and midi dresses, a trench coat is both functional and stylish.
For colder months, the elegance of a wool coat is essential. This classic, nigh-iconic coat style is perfect for formal occasions or chic winter outings. Pair it with fit-and-flare dresses, sweater dresses, or cocktail dresses to maximize your refined, high-end style. This might be a perfect place to break out the statement jewelry, too.
Want to go even bigger? Nothing says ‘glamour’ quite like a faux fur coat, stole, or oversized boa. The look of faux furs adds a luxurious feel to your dress. Be bold this year and wear faux fur to evening events, holiday parties, or special occasions. White, black and brown fur coats are the classics, and something you’ll be able to wear over a dress of almost any color. But, if you really want to let your true colors shine, faux fur comes in every shade of the rainbow. We promise: nothing makes an entrance quite like a vibrant blue fur coat.
Sweaters Are For Casual and Trendy Days
Wear pullover sweaters over your dress to completely change up your look. Perfect for layering over dresses in colder weather, they work well with A-line cuts, shift dresses, and even maxi dresses. Choose oversized sweaters for a trendy look or fitted ones for a more polished appearance. Find an off-the-shoulder sweater that’ll reveal the dress’ straps to emphasize that you’ve got your layering game on lock.
Cropped sweaters are ideal for shaking up your silhouette. They pair well with high-waisted dresses, fit-and-flare dresses, and pleated skirts. Perfect for transitional weather, they add a fashionable touch without overwhelming your outfit – and they can keep you warm, especially when they’re knit or made of sweatshirt material.
Turtleneck sweaters offer warmth and style. They create a chic, layered look when worn over dresses, making them great choices for fall and winter. Pair them with slip dresses, midi dresses, and bodycon dresses for extra sophistication.
Shawls and Capes Are Elegant and Unique
For an elegant touch, pashmina shawls are a great choice. As sophisticated as they are warming, pashmina shawls are perfect for evening events or formal occasions – or for anywhere you want to look absolutely stunning. Make sure to choose rich, vibrant colors or subtle, neutral tones to match your dress. Capes are unique and stylish, offering a dramatic flair to your outfit. They work well with formal dresses, cocktail dresses, and evening gowns. Choose capes with intricate details or embellishments to make a statement.
Layering over a dress is an art that combines functionality and style. Whether you’re looking for something casual, professional, or glamorous, there’s a perfect outerwear option for every occasion. Choosing the right pieces, you can transform your dress into a versatile and chic ensemble, ready for any event or season. So, go ahead and experiment with these layering ideas to create your signature look.