Sorry to the Jeans in My Wardrobe—These Easy Black Dresses Are Replacing You

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.

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(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl)

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.

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(Image credit: @abimarvel)

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. 

1.BEST BLACK MIDI DRESSES FOR WOMEN

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(Image credit: @isabellecoheen)

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.

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2.BEST BLACK MINI DRESSES FOR WOMEN

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(Image credit: @rosiehw)

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.

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1.BEST BLACK MAXI DRESSES FOR WOMEN

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye )

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.

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4.BEST BLACK KNITTED DRESSES FOR WOMEN

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(Image credit: @aidabadji_)

Style Notes: Short or long, ribbed or smooth, a knitted dress is a brilliant layering piece that can be dressed up or down.

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6.BEST BLACK PARTY DRESSES FOR WOMEN

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

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. 

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7.BEST BLACK EVENING DRESSES FOR WOMEN

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(Image credit: @_jeanettemadsen_)

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. 

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Next Up: Not All Dresses and Jackets Go Together, But These 5 Timeless Combinations Work

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.