How to Wear a Maxi Dress in Winter : Style Tips

Maxi dresses are one of the most versatile pieces you can have in your wardrobe, and a popular fashion choice for many women, especially during the warmer months. However, they can also be worn during winter, and today I’m sharing some of my favorite ways, and top tips to take a maxi dress from something you only wear in the summer months to something suitable for the cold winter months too. So if you want to know how to wear a maxi dress in Winter, and really make your summer dresses work for their keep all year, then read on!

Blond woman standing by a swimming pool on a cold day. She is wearng a green maxi dress. — This is the Tessa Evergreen Maxi dress in 100% cotton from Salty Crush. I love this dress as it’s in a nice relaxed style, with a V Neckline, Long Sleeves with elasticated cuffs, Drawstring waist, Front split, and it’s Ankle Length. You can get 10% discount at Salty Crush using the discount code: LIFESTYLEFIFTY10 at checkout (time dependent and not on sale items). Scroll on and find out how I layer-up this maxi dress as we approach winter.

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How to Wear a Maxi Dress in Winter Weather

Here are some ideas on how to wear your summer maxi dress in winter, and stay warm while still looking stylish.

Don’t be afraid to layer.

Layering is key to staying warm during winter, and if you’re adding layers to a floaty summer maxi then layering can change it’s look completely – and it’s a great way to add a stylish extra touch to your outfit.

Layering a Maxi Dress for Winter Weather

Start with a thermal or long-sleeved top underneath your maxi dress.
Add a pair of warm tights.
Think about wearing a silky slip as an extra under layer.
Pop on some snug boots with warm socks.
Add a woollen coat if it it’s a really cold day.
Add a chunky knit sweater or cardigan over the top to keep you warm on mild winter days.

Woman showiing how to wear a maxi dress in winter. She has layered a chunky orange sweater over a maxi dress. — Maxi dress * from 3rd Story the Label (previous season gifted) teamed with a bright orange knit from a high street store.

If you want to add some extra style, then the best way is to try layering a stylish long coat or a trendy trench coat, or a leather, or denim jacket or jean jacket as I’ve done in the image below.

Blond woman walking towards the camera. She is wearing a green maxi dress and a denim jacket showing how to wear a maxi dress in winter.

Footwear to Wear with a Maxi Dress in Cold Weather

How do you choose the right shoes to wear with a floaty maxi dress for winter?

Obviously, the best shoes will protect your feet from the icy chill and wet days, so when it comes to winter footwear in colder weather, boots are your best friend – even if your dress is made from lightweight or flimsy material.

Opt for knee boots or ankle boots in a neutral color such as black or brown to pair with your maxi dress. Not only will they keep your feet warm, but they also add a touch of sophistication to your outfit.

I suggest buying boots with low to mid heels if you are going to be active, and keep tall boots for occasions when you don’t have to walk too far.

Blond woman standing by a swimming pool. She is wearing a green maxi dress and a denim jacket showing how to wear a maxi dress in winter. — I’m wearing this summer Salty Crush maxi dress with pink suede boots that have a small kitten heel. Get 10% discount off Salty Crush styles with code LIFESTYLEFIFTY10 (time dependent, not on sale items).

Accessories to Wear with a Maxi Dress in Winter

A winter wardrobe calls out for accessories.

Now is the time to have fun with scarves, colorful tights, playful hats – and even chunky combat boots it you’re after an edgy look.

Accessories can make or break your outfit and are the perfect choice not only for a special occasion but also for everyday.

Choosing the right accessories is almost as important as choosing the right maxi dress, and to be honest this is the really fun part.

You can create a cozy look with a warm scarf. Scarves come in many different fabrics and different textures, so have fun choosing something that is either soft and light such as silk, or perhaps heavier like a pashmina in a soft wool as I’m wearing in the image below.

Blond woman wearing a green maxi dress and a pashmina scarf illustrating how to wear a maxi dress in winter. — A pashmina can be a warm and stylish way of layering and adding warmth to a maxi dress for winter. My pashmina in this image was a gift from my mum about 10 years ago, and it’s been a much worn item in my wardrobe. Buy the real deal, it may be more expensive, but a good quality pashmina will serve you well.

Try pairing your maxi dress with accessories that have fun patterns – perhaps a matching scarf, hat, and gloves. Not only will they keep you warm, but if you choose bright colors then they will add a glorious pop to your outfit.

You can also accessorize with a belt to cinch in your waist.

Or how about adding a lovely faux fur vest as an extra layer over your maxi dress?

Two women wearing black maxi dresses. They have added camel faux fur gilets for warmth, illustrating how to wear a maxi dress in winter. — This gorgeous Raven Maxi T Shirt Dress has been teamed with the Joanne Faux Fur Vest in Camel from Styling You The Label. Action my coupon code JOCASTRO15 for a whopping 15% discount if you purchase from Styling You The Label. You’ll love the quality of Styling You garments, plus they are Australian made and designed. Click the link now and check out all the must-have styles!

If the weather isn’t too cold then why not add a fashionable floppy hat? It may not keep you as warm as a knitted beanie, but it will give you an extra layer on your head to keep the heat in, and make you look super stylish to boot.

Camel coloured hat with black band. — The Alvaro Hat in camel from Salty Crush

Woman wearing a maxi dress and camel colored hat. — The model is wearing the Alvaro Hat in Camel. Get 10% off your purchases at Salty Crush using this coupon code LIFESTYLEFIFTY10 (time dependent, not on sale items) Don’t you think the Indiana Chai Maxi from Salty Crush looks fab worn with a hat and ankle boots?

Woman wearing a waterfall cardigan in a light blush color illustrating the sort of cardigan you could wear with a maxi dress in winter. — The long, waterfall style Ryden Cardigan from Salty Crush would be a beautiful match to pop on over a maxi dress. It would add a casual, but oh-so stylish extra layer.

The easiest way to add a bit of warmth and zing to a flimsy long maxi dresses is to just pop on some thermal leggings or winter weight tights, and as I mentioned previously stock up with comfy chunky knits in different colors to throw on top.

Blond woman wearing an ethnic pring maxi dress with an ivory coloured sweater and ankle boots, illustrating how to wear a maxi dress in winter. — I love wearing soft warm sweaters and knits with my maxi dresses on cooler days.

Fabric Choice for Fall Season and Winter

When choosing clothes for fall or winter, opt for fabrics that are warm and cozy.

Fabrics such as wool, cashmere, or velvet are great choices. Not only will they keep you warm, but they also add a touch of luxury to your outfit.

Of course you can also opt for a maxi dress with long sleeves to add extra warmth.

Best Color Choice for Winter

While pastel colors may be perfect for spring and summer, they may not be the best choice for winter. Instead, choose darker hues such as burgundy, navy, or forest green.

Not only do these colors look great during the winter season, but they also pair well with other winter essentials such as boots and scarves.

Outfit Ideas – Experiment with Different Maxi Styles

Maxi dresses come in many different styles and cuts, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different looks. Wearing a summery maxi dress in winter can be a stylish and practical choice if you are after a layered, more casual look.

You can also try a maxi dress that has a high neck and long sleeves.

For a touch of sassy style why not look for a maxi dress with a side slit or asymmetrical hemline?

By layering, choosing the right footwear, accessorizing, opting for warm fabrics, choosing the right color, and experimenting with different styles, you can create a stylish winter outfit that is both comfortable and fashionable. So don’t be afraid to mix and match and create a winter look out of your summer dresses that is uniquely you.

Blond woman wearing a green maxi dress and a cozy, fluffy pink scarf and pink boots. She is illustrating how to wear a maxi dress in winter.

Maxi Dress FAQ’s

What winter coat to wear with maxi dress?

When it comes to pairing a winter coat with a maxi dress, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your outfit looks stylish and cohesive.

Here are some ideas on what winter coats to wear with a maxi dress:

Long Wool Coat: A long wool coat is a classic choice for winter, and it pairs well with a maxi dress. Opt for a coat that is in a neutral color such as black, grey, or camel to create a chic and sophisticated look.
Trench Coat : Always a stylish overgarment and versatile.
Faux Fur Coat: A faux fur coat is a trendy option that can add a touch of glamour to your maxi dress. Opt for a coat that is in a neutral color such as black, white, or beige which will go with many different colors or patterns.
Leather Jacket: A leather jacket can add edge to your maxi dress. Opt for a black leather jacket for a classic look, or try a colored leather jacket for a more daring outfit.
Puffer Jacket: A puffer jacket is a practical choice for colder days, and it pairs well with a maxi dress. Opt for a puffer jacket in a neutral color such as black or navy, or try a bold color for a pop of color.
Jean Jacket: Whether you choose a denim jacket or a jean type jacket in a colour to complement or contrast with your dress, you are onto a warming winner.

Blond woman smiling confidently by a swimming pool. She is wearing a green maxi dress and a pink jean jacket, illustrating how to wear a maxi dress in winter.

Tips: There are many options when it comes to choosing a winter coat to wear with a long dress. Keep in mind the style of your maxi dress and choose a coat that complements it well. Whether you choose a long wool coat, faux fur coat, leather jacket, or puffer jacket, you can create a stylish and practical winter outfit.

Blond woman smiling confidently in an autumn garden. She is wearing a green maxi dress and a pink jean jacket with a warm scarf illustrating how to wear a maxi dress in winter.

How do you wear maxi dress with boots in winter?

Pairing a maxi dress with boots is a stylish way to create a winter outfit that is both fashionable and practical. Not only do they look great with a maxi dress, but they also keep your feet warm during the colder months.

Here are some tips on how to wear a maxi dress with boots in the winter:

Choose the Right Boots: When it comes to choosing boots to wear with a maxi dress, opt for knee-high or ankle boots in a neutral color such as black or brown.
For freezing temperatures buy boots with fur lining.
Leather is always a good buy when it comes to winter boots.
Suede boots are great for cool days, but not so great if the weather is really wet.
Rubber boots, like Wellington boots, will not add enought warmth unless you team them with thick warm winter socks.

What shoes to wear with maxi dress in winter?

When you are choosing shoes to wear with a maxi dress in winter, there are several options that can keep you both stylish and warm.

Here are some ideas:

Ankle Boots: Ankle boots are a great option to pair with a maxi dress in the winter. Choose a pair in a neutral color like black or brown.
Knee-High Boots: A pair of Knee-high boots is another stylish option to wear with a maxi dress in the winter. They provide extra coverage for your legs and can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit.
Sneakers: If you’re looking for a more casual and comfortable option, sneakers can be a great choice to wear with a maxi dress in the winter. Opt for a pair in a neutral color like white or black, and make sure they are comfortable enough to walk in.

Blond woman smiling, standing against green foliage backdrop. She is wearng a blue maxi dress and a suede leather jacket, and sneakers. — I love FRANKiE4 sneakers *. These are previous season gifted. Check out all the different styles online.

What to Wear over Maxi Dress?

if you want to add an extra layer of warmth or style, there are several options for what to wear over a maxi dress. Here are some ideas:

Denim Jacket: A denim jacket is a classic choice to wear over a maxi dress. It’s an easy way to add a casual and effortless vibe to your outfit, as well as keep you warm on cooler days.
Sweater : A sloppy Joe sweater looks very stylish when worn over a maxi.
Cardigan: A cardigan is a cozy and comfortable option to wear over a maxi dress. It can add a touch of warmth and create a layered look that is perfect for fall or winter.
Blazer: A blazer is a sophisticated option that can elevate your maxi dress to the next level. It creates a chic and polished look that is perfect for formal occasions or work events.
Long Coat : A woolen coat that comes down to mid calf is a snug and cosy, classic option.
Leather Jacket: A leather jacket is a great option if you want to add some edge to your maxi dress. It creates a stylish and chic look, and it pairs well with ankle boots or sneakers.

Blond woman smiling, standing against green foliage backdrop. She is wearng an ethnic print maxi dress and a suede leather jacket, and ankle boots. — My suede leather jacket * was gifted last season by The Jacket Maker.

Summer maxi dresses can be a part of any winter wardrobe. Not only are they comfortable and stylish, but by layering them over tights or leggings, and cozy sweaters or jackets, you can keep you warm and snug. With the right accessories and styling, you can create a chic winter look with a maxi dress that’ll be sure to turn heads.

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