5 Easy Black-Dress-and-Boot Combos That Work Every Single Time
While summer calls for transparent voiles and barely there clothing, February styling is the complete antithesis and we veer towards deeper hues, jewel tones and steadfast items that have met the style and warm criteria over the years. However, you aren't alone if you too lack inspiration when outfits are swallowed whole by oversized coats. Winter is all about layering and outfit combinations. At this time of year, I pull for black dress and boot ensembles more than anything else. Within one fall sweep, you have a head-to-toe outfit that's practical, looks considered (in an effortless way) and stylish. It's a combination that always looks chic, understated and bears a chic Scandi lilt (Scandinavian women are experts at wearing monochrome outfits, after all).
I've never met someone who didn't love a LBD and although they're best associated with eveningwear, there are myriad ways to style black dresses which transcend the eveningwear realm. Simply pairing them with boots, instantly makes them daytime-appropriate. When it comes to choosing which dresses to style with boots, the options span from long-sleeved tea dresses to bodycon numbers and silken slips. Jumper dresses are also landing on e-commerce faster than you can say winter, in various cuts — from high neck to raglan styles you can pull in at the waist (there's more on that later).
Come winter, there's also an opportunity to reinvent evening gowns with hardened footwear and structured coats. It's fair to say, everyone could benefit from a black dress in their arsenal. Keep on reading for five-inspired black dress and boot looks to carry you from now and well into the first days of Spring.
1. Bodycon Dress + Boxy Leather Jacket + Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: Add a boxy leather jacket to a bodycon dress to juxtapose an androgynous and feminine silhouette. You can easily take this look from day to date night.
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Whistles is renown for its leather jackets. The quality is exceptional.
These vintage-style drop earrings will offset refined looks.
I'm continually impressed by Duo Boots. The brand offers an array of size-inclusive boots in both fashion-forward and classic styles. My favourites are the knee-high styles.
2. Full Skirted Maxi Dress + Pointed Heeled Boots
Style Notes: Take note from Marina and pair your flouncy frock with a cropped jumper over the top. Layer with dainty accessories and prop this look up with sleek heeled boots.
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Why not add a heart charm, it's the season, after all.
Dala specialises in inclusive denim and contemporary silhouettes. This longline denim coat is a sure way to add texture and a nonchalant effect to a typical monochrome outfit.
I would believe you if you told me these were designer boots. I'm in awe, truly.
3. Black and White Bias Dress + Wool Coat + Chelsea Boots
Style Notes: If you want to instantly elevate a look, pay attention to accessories. As the chill seeps in and we refer to layers add bags and accessories in slightly contrasting tones.
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This androgynous style car coat will add a carefree touch to all outfits.
These Chelsea boots have a slightly higher shaft, which is perfect for disguising socks and keeping the cold at bay!
4. Jumper Dress + Chunky Ankle Boots
Style Notes: Make like Lois and pair a languid jumper dress with chunky Chelsea boots and the much-adored Arket crossbody bag. Although we're heading towards the depths of winter, sunny days are still rife, so add a pair of sunglasses to tie the look together.
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The type of dress that will always work hard in your wardrobe. Wear it slouchy, or belt it at the waist.
Arket's crossbody bag is one of its bestselling items. It's available in this suede fabrication for 2024 but if this colourway or fabric doesn't tickle your fancy, there are many others to choose from.
Chelsea boots come in many different forms. Not only do lug sole platforms have an androgynous element, but they're also practical for the (dare I say it) snow.
5. Lingerie Slip Dress + Herringbone Coat + Chunky Boots
Style Notes: You needn't leave lingerie slip dresses in the summer. For winter, add a layer of warmth atop and there isn't a more classic style than a speckled herringbone or tweed.
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Herritage-style outerwear will never be passé. This particular style features a nipped-in waist silhouette.
Slip dresses are still proving popular as we transition into winter. They're very apt for the upcoming party season too.
Monc London produces conscious and elevated designs. It's the eyewear brand to have on your radar.
I can't take my eyes off this darling bag. It'll compliment almost every evening outfit.
Matches have replenished The Row, so now the boot everyone has fallen in love with is available in all sizes.
Next Up: I've Done the Research - 4 Major Dress Trends That Will Be Everywhere This Winter
Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities. She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist. Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne. She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.
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