How to Style a Sweater Dress Using Fall and Winter’s Best Trends

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If you’re someone who prioritizes comfort above all, navigating how to style a sweater dress will go a long way during the chilly months. A bona fide closet MVP, the cushy silhouette is one of those no-fuss numbers that takes the guesswork out of getting ready for the day.

No, one can’t ignore the many merits of a sweater dress. For starters, the piece’s unmatched versatility is one major draw. Really, a knit frock can see you through work meetings and dinner dates alike—it’s all about how you style the piece. The vibe of your sweater-dress outfit boils down to accessories. Should you wish to take it into a maximalist direction for an evening out, something like, say, a chunky beaded necklace and animal-print ankle boots are solid picks. Alternatively, for those who favor a pared-back outfit that oozes sophistication, dress up a turtleneck dress with sleek leather booties and a coordinating purse.

This is just scratching the surface—for more sweater-dress styling tips and outfit ideas using all the fall and winter fashion trends, keep reading.

How to style a chunky-knit sweater dress

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Can’t resist a chunky sweater? We have a feeling you’ll be just as enamored with a thick, toasty knit dress. Find one in a shorter length and skip unnecessary layers or accessories that might weigh the look down. Because of its heavy fabric, you can potentially get away with wearing the piece sans coat (depending on the month, of course). During the day, trendy riding boots and a satchel bag are enough to look stylish. But for a night out on the town, dress things up with heeled knee-high boots, shiny gold hoops, and a leather clutch. Also, add black tights or leggings if you’re emulating this outfit formula in single-digit temps.

Pink Queen Loose Turtleneck Oversize Sweater Dress

Mango Leather High Boots

How to style a ribbed sweater dress

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Belts have never been more popular, and it’s easy to see why. As illustrated above, a statement accent breathes new life into your trusty wardrobe staples, including a ribbed sweater dress. Sure, this frilly iteration is already quite bold on its own, but the metal belt kicks up the cool factor. It’d do the same with a basic black knit too. Elevate the combo with leather pumps—closed-toe for winter, obviously—and a matching handbag, or go for a more grounded and casual look with this season’s buzziest combat boots.

Kivari Rafaela Knit Midi Dress

Free People Supernova Hip Belt

How to style a midi sweater dress

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A body-hugging midi sweater dress is an excellent contender for your next date-night look. If you’re opting for a simple style, punctuate the piece with a thick chain or the pendant necklace trend. Meanwhile, sleek pumps push the low-key frock into evening territory. But if head-to-toe comfort sounds more appealing, give ballet flats a spin. Add a blazer if you need another layer, ideally one that doesn’t hide the sleek silhouette too much.

Zara Cord Necklace with Stone Locket

Maggy London Sweater Dress

How to style a mini sweater dress

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Take fashion cues from this street-style star and experiment with creative layering. For instance, throwing on a shawl in the same color as your long-sleeve sweater dress is an easy styling technique that delivers instant impact. Last but not least, consider enlivening an otherwise minimalist look with eye-grabbing snakeskin over-the-knee boots, which just so happen to be a front-running trend in the footwear department this season, ICYMI.

H&M Rib-Knit Dress

Miss Lefty Kitten Heel Boot

How to style a print sweater dress

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When it comes to a printed sweater dress like this colorful striped design, for example, the piece doesn’t need much accessorizing to be eye-catching. We’d recommend tossing on a trendy suede jacket, as the outerwear will lend a bit of luxury to a punchy dress. Striking the perfect balance between dressed-up and casual, this look has all the makings of a Saturday-night fall outfit, especially if your plans involve checking out a new buzzy neighborhood restaurant.

Veronica Beard Sanders Dress

BlankNYC Faux-Suede Trench Coat

How to style a cable-knit sweater dress

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Not all sweater dresses are created equal when it comes to winter outfits. Some styles out there exude a slightly sultry vibe, including this teeny-tiny cable-knit sweater dress. Those who like showing a little leg, even in cold weather, will be drawn to this silhouette. Tip: Slouchy thigh-high boots, which are currently in fashion, are just the thing to balance out the skin-baring sweater dress. Top things off with a leather jacket or trench coat for some much-needed warmth.

Abercrombie Sweaterdress

Reformation Gaelle Knee Boots