Any time of the year it’s a given that my dresses are among the simplest and most versatile pieces in my closet. In summer, I put the dress on and sprint through the doors without a thought, because they’re the most practical piece to wear when summer temps blaze. In winter, the thought is only to wear a pair of tights and maybe layer the turtleneck over.
Whatever the season dress codes are complex due to one thing: coats. In summer, temperatures could change from 90 degrees at midday to 65 degrees at night within the blink of an eye, therefore it’s vital to wear a coat in order to take on the chill of the evening. When it’s winter or fall the coat can be an integral part of your attire since you’ll need it to walk out of the door.
The problem lies in the fact that the coat is the most noticeable part of your ensemble, it can easily create or ruin an outfit. When styling dresses with coats, it can be a bit difficult since the last layer of clothing can make the entire dress seem unnatural, or make it appear as if it’s completely covered.
While it’s not a good idea, there are, in fact, ways that a jacket can make a dress appear more attractive and even enhance it underneath. If you’re not convinced then read on to discover ways to pair shell jackets with dresses in seven different ways.
Belt It
If you’re looking to create a tailored look (less casual and free-flowing), try belting both your jacket and dress with one belt. This simple accessory help create a uniform look between both pieces (even if they’re contrasting like the ones above) It will provide them with more form and provide a fascinating form for the eyes to follow.
Match the Jacket Length to Your Dress
If I’m wearing a minidress with a blazer, or a unisex midi dress paired with a trench coat I like mixing the lengths of both pieces. It provides a uniform, style, and look that is both put together and classic. The outfit instantly appears formal, and the coat and dress will appear great together, regardless of the material or color.
Drape It Over Your Shoulders
Despite the hands of dinosaurs that inevitably emerge when wearing a jacket draped over your shoulders, it’s definitely one of the chicest ways to style your outfit. It lets your arms be free. This style lets you show off your entire dress and accessorize the coat in an effortless and flirtatious fashion. It’ll look like you put it on with no thought while walking out the door–no one will be able to tell that you carefully designed it.
…Or Wear It Much Shorter
If you’re not sure you want to be able to match the lengths precisely I recommend going to the opposite end in the range and styling 2 contrastingly different lengths. Specifically, fashion girls love pairing a short jacket (think that cropped) with a longer maxi or midi dresses. The look is lengthening, as it draws your eyes from the edge of the jacket to the edge that the garment.
Color Contrast
There is no middle ground in the quest for a stylish way to pair a dress with a jacket combo. If you’re not fond of color-coordinated looks, try choosing one that stands out with the dress. The stark contrast will emphasize the individual pieces, making for an innovative and avant-garde look, similar to the kind you see on the runway.
Make Your Jacket the Dress
In the end, why not just leave the pairing part out and just make your jacket the dress? I love a two-for-one combination, and this is especially delicious. Mid-thigh-length jackets provide the perfect length of dress So, just press (or zip) the top, tie the belt on, and voila! a jacket dress.