If there’s one dress I believe everyone needs to own, it’s a black one. Worn by trendsetters ranging from Audrey Hepburn to Gwyneth Paltrow, it’s the dress that will always look effortlessly elegant. Short or long, embellished or understated, the black dress is your most loyal fashion friend. And, now that winter is here, there’s a fresh drop of tempting new styles to explore.
The hero black dress style for winter is a knitted one, which this season comes in a wide variety of silhouettes. From micro jumper dresses to ribbed, figure-hugging styles, these wool and cashmere designs can be taken from the office to the cocktail party with just a few simple accessory switches. Thanks to their understated yet luxurious fabrication, knitted dress can look casual and cool when paired with trainers, or refined and polished with heels or tall boots.
But with the festive season on the horizon, how could we not highlight the ultimate black evening dresses? From dancefloor-ready party dresses to black tie-apppropriate gowns, a black dress is there to see you through every event. And with help from a rotation of different accessories, you’ll be able to find new ways to wear your favourite dress again and again. Scroll on to discover our pick of the very best dresses for every budget.
Style Notes: A midi dress is a winter must-have, and a black version can act as the foundation for so many looks. Add chunky boots and a jacket for day, or heels and a long coat for evening.
The panelling adds just a hint of texture.
This dress is draped from heavy double-faced silk, and it’s elegant silhouette makes it perfect for work.
This is such an elegant silhouette for a high street piece.
For those who like a figure-hugging fit.
This would look so beautiful with a long trench or wool coat.
Style Notes: Keep the hemline high with a mini dress this winter. Follow Rosie’s example and style with black tights and super tall boots to make it seasonally approproate.
The neckline on this mini dress is universally flattering.
This would look great with knee high boots and tights.
With loafers or boots, this mini dress looks effortlessly cool.
This is the kind of mini dress that you can feel confident wearing to the office, and to after-work drinks
I love the gold buckle detail on these, which is reminiscent of Gucci’s signature horsebit embellishment.
Style Notes: Maxi dresses have remained the trending silhouette all year—this winter, style yours with a teddy or long wool coat to emphasise the silhouette. Keep it casual with trainers or loafers, or elevate the look with knee-high heeled boots.
I’m obsessed with the way this knitted turtleneck top shifts into a floaty, semi-transparent skirt.
Made from super soft cotton with just the right amount of stretch, this dress can be used as the base layer for so many looks.
This dress could easily go from day to night with a few accessory switches.
The easiest black maxi dress you can own.
Layer with boots and a jumper or think shearling jacket, as styled by Jessica Skye.
Style Notes: Short or long, ribbed or smooth, a knitted dress is a brilliant layering piece that can be dressed up or down.
I love the built-in belt on this dress (and the price tag.)
This could be styled in so many ways.
The off-the-shoulder neckline makes this feel extra elevated.
A long cashmere dress is so luxurious.
The leg split means this dress work look especially great with a knee-high boot.
Style Notes: Whether you’re headed to a cocktail party or a dancefloor, going out is made so much easier when you have a reliable black dress to reach for. Stand out from the crowd with sheer panelling or intricate embellishment.
Sheer panelling is very on trend this season, and this floaty style from Jen Ceballos’ collaboration is spot-on.
This dress is more than ready for a party.
The neckline on this is so, so good.
The embellishment detail will catch the light so well.
The shoulder pads give this mini dress a strong silhouette.
Style Notes: For more formal affairs, a black dress will always make you feel confident and fashionable. I particularly love Jeanette’s slinky silk maxi, which just looks so effortlessly sophisticated.
Reformation always does slinky silk dresses so well, and this cleverly ruched number is no exception.
The contrast of the satin and velvet is really gorgeous.
Those feathered sleeves, the asymetric neckline, the split—this is the statement dress to own this festive season.
Velvet is a great choice for elevated winter evening wear.
The frayed hem and flower detail is such a lovely touch.
Next Up: Not All Dresses and Jackets Go Together, But These 5 Timeless Combinations Work