We're firm believers that you should get as much wear out of your clothes as possible, which is why the dresses-over-trousers trick has long been one of our favourite layering techniques. Naturally, it provides you with the opportunity to dress down after-dark frocks so they work during daylight hours, but it's also particularly effective this time of year when clever layering is a must if you're one of those people who's always cold. However, we're also aware it can be a little daunting for first-timers, so we decided to give you an easy master class in how to wear dresses over trousers with help from a few incredibly stylish women. Keep scrolling to see the chic outfits that await and shop any pieces your wardrobe may be missing.
RED + PINK PILE-UP
Style Notes: The easiest way to make your dress-over-trousers look sleek is to stick to a similar colour palette. The red hue of this floaty dress looks gorgeous paired with pink. The fact that Ada has also matched the colour of her polka dots to her bag and shoes is certainly no accident, and it ensures the ensemble appears pulled together.
Related: Every Girl in London Is Wearing This Timeless Blazer Trend
MINIMALIST STRIPES + CULOTTES
Style Notes: Chances are you'll have a striped cotton dress hanging in your wardrobe, but there's no need to forget about it until springtime. Make like Brittany and wear yours over wide-leg culottes in a neutral shade for pared-back perfection.
Related: The Cold-Snap Dress Trend Every Brit Girl Loves to Wear
FIT + FLARE
Style Notes: You need to tread carefully with this layering trick. As we've already discussed, if you get the proportions wrong, your frame will be completely swamped. To avoid this scenario from playing out, look for dress styles that taper at the hem, then wear with kick-flare trousers to create a flattering, fishtail-like silhouette.
Related: Trust Me, I Know Good Shoes, and These Party-Ready Pairs Are Everything
GLAM + CASUAL
Style Notes: Get more wear out of your after-dark dresses by layering them over a pair of jeans; then finish with heeled loafers to balance out the proportions.
Related: It's Official: These 9 High-Street Stores Do the Best Jeans
SILKY + CHECKS
Style Notes: Checks and slips are two of this season's biggest trends, so it's little wonder they look fabulous when worn together. Throw in some jewel-toned shoes and a cropped jacket, and you're good to go.
Related: 9 Pieces Later, and You've Got the Perfect Cold-Weather Capsule Wardrobe
RETRO PRINT + WIDE LEG
Style Notes: Autumn/winter 2018 is practically a homage to the '70s. Try layering a paisley dress over wide-leg cords for ultimate retro appeal.
We don't know about you, but we've got dresses on the mind right now; take a look at the frocks on our party season wish list.