My Favorite Dresses Look Brand-New When I Add This Parisian Staple

While much of the fall season in Paris is marked by heavy rain, I got lucky on my recent trip and spent a lot of my time in the city seeing bright blue skies and watching happy Parisians put on their first cold-weather dresses of the season. When I think about November fashion, my mind immediately goes to a cozy cardigan or a maxi dress—how smart the French are for pairing the two together.

My favorite thing about this outfit formula is that it has a way of making a dress that you've worn again and again feel brand-new. I'm fortunate to have an overstuffed closet filled with items that I absolutely love, so instead of continuing to find new things to buy, I've spent my time lately restyling my favorites from the past. Below, find 25 cardigans and dresses you're going to want to wear together.

Camille wears a gray cardigan with a black dress

(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

If you're interested in emulating a librarian-inspired vibe, styling a cardigan with a good dress just might be the best place for you to start on your journey. Cool glasses and braids are how I'd style it.

cardigans with dresses

(Image credit: @aidabadji_)

Don't underestimate the power that an oversize slouchy cardigan and maxi dress can give you. It's the definition of effortlessly chic and, even better, feels like wearing a blanket.

cardigans with dresses

(Image credit: @ada_oguntodu)

Any sort of unexpected styling pulls me in, and I love the clashing prints and vibrant colors in this look. This is an area of experimentation that has no limits, so combine the unexpected when you're styling your cardigan and see what happens.

cardigans with dresses

(Image credit: @melodiebanc)

If you're looking for a classic and timeless French-girl approach, this look just might be it. A pointelle cardigan and slip dress will always have people greeting you with "bonjour."

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, trying the latest fitness craze in New York City, or exploring luxury vintage boutiques.