The cold weather has got a little too comfortable for my liking – aren't we overdue a hit of heat? Irrespective of my personal preferences, it appears the chilly temps are something of a permanent fixture here in the UK. Head out without a jacket on, and you'll live to regret it.
For when swerving the extra layer is simply not an option, help is at hand.
Jackets and dresses can be curiously at odds – whether that's down to conflicting proportions or lengths. But there are a few key combos that hit the spot every single time and we're not here to gatekeep…
MORE: 10 ways to wear trainers with dresses
© GettyHow we chose:
© Getty- Style and versatility: All our jacket picks feature a flattering silhouette and work harmoniously with the dress styles we've suggested. When combing through the internet's top fashion sites for the best styles, we made sure that each of our outfit combinations are either trend-relevant or timeless for maximum wearability.
- Price: Whether you're planning on splashing out or bagging a bargain, we've got a jacket in your price range. We've selected this season's best, ranging from high-street brands to luxe designer labels.
© GettyREAD: How to style an oversized jumper and the best knits to shop this season
MORE: Best bomber jackets: 12 styles to amp up your outerwear collection
Hello! Fashion shares the best ways to style jackets with dresses:
Tweed jacket + Polo neck dress
Tweed and bouclé jackets are having a moment right now, and I love the slightly utilitarian feel of Mango's multi-pocketed khaki version. Round necklines work really well layered over polo style knits, and this stretch-infused midi by French Connection feels super versatile. Top it off with chunky loafers - Tod's would be my preference if you're looking to invest - to offset the French-girl elegance of the jacket with a harder edge.
Pocket Tweed Jacket, £79.99, Mango; Babysoft Roll Neck Midi Dress, £85.00 £59.00, French Connection; Tod's Gomma Pesante Embellished Glossed-Leather Loafers, £690.00, Net-A-Porter
Moto jacket + Slip dress
I love the graphic impact of a moto jacket, and there are heaps of great affordable options out there right now. H&M's faux leather version feels wearable and cool, and I love the pairing of the black against the soft, slightly creamy hue, as opposed to super stark white. The shiny finish pairs well with a silky texture, and Hush's easy-breezy Alessandra slip won't break the bank. For a dose of casual cool, finish the look with sustainable sneaker label Saye's corn vegan napa Modelo '92s.
Racer Jacket, £49.99, H&M; Alessandra Slip Midi Dress, £89.00 £35.00, Hush; Modelo '92 - Garnet, £179.00, Saye
Boxy Western jacket + Denim dress
Inject your wardrobe with a sense of movement and embrace fringing this season, as seen at the likes of Prada, Gucci and Burberry. This boxy silhouette by Polo Ralph Lauren would look great over denim if you're leaning into the cowboy aesthetic. For added interest, pair with independent label Rai Jewellery's opulent Arewa earrings and complete with a sharp boot - this brown croc print style by Everlane has really interesting heel curvature.
Polo Ralph Lauren Fringed Leather Jacket, £1,900.00, Net-A-Porter; Reformation Eugenia Strapless Stretch-Denim Midi Dress, £200.00, Selfridges; The Banana Heel Boot, £261.00, Everlane
Belted blazer + Mini dress
A relaxed-fit blazer and a spirited mini length is a match made in proportional heaven. I love the unfussy silhouette over a more form-fitting party piece, and Cos' slate grey jacket even features a delicate belt if you're wanting to create some gentle shape. Mango's faux leather strapless dress is timeless and minimalist, and I've fallen hard for Jimmy Choo's two-tone Mary Janes - ideal if you're after a more forgiving heel height. For a hint of glitz, Oliver Bonas' Angelique tassel earrings easily fit the bill.
Belted Double-Breasted Wool Blazer, £155.00, Cos; Leather-Effect Strapless Dress, £49.99 £29.99, Mango; Angelique Glass Stone Tassel Drop Statement Earrings, £28.00, Oliver Bonas; Jimmy Choo Elisa 45 Glittered and Patent-Leather Mary Jane Pumps, £625.00, Net-A-Porter
Shearling jacket + Neutral knit dress
The shearling jacket is a cold month classic, and Loewe's boxy version has a timeless quality. Cut from soft, sand-coloured lamb's leather, it would look beautiful as the focal point of a tonal look layered over Khaite's flattering Oron gown. Leaning into a neutral colour palette, Dear Frances' sleek cream boots would make for a worthwhile investment and finish with chic chain purveyor Tilly Sveaas' Short Gold Lariat necklace.
Loewe Shearling Jacket, £4,550.00, Net-A-Porter; Khaite Oron Gathered Stretch-Jersey Gown, £1,350.00, Net-A-Porter; Hetti Boot, £600.00, Dear Frances; Short Gold Lariat Necklace, £250.00, Tilly Sveaas
Why you should trust me:
Orin Carlin is Hello! Fashion’s SEO Content Writer. Promising to leave no stone unturned in the name of fashion and beauty journalism, she is the proud creator of our ‘Try The Trend’ series. With a particular interest in formula innovation, microtrends, royal and bridal beauty, perfume, rituals, treatments, fashion history and vintage icons, she can either be found interviewing major industry names (previous subjects include Georgia May Jagger, Mary Greenwell and Sam McKnight) or scouring the internet for must-have pieces. It's not just a job; it's a personal quest to unearth noteworthy pieces that resonate with style and beauty enthusiasts.
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