Emma Paton’s winter layering tips

If like me, you want the pieces in your wardrobe to work hard, offer versatility and cost per wear, then I have some simple solutions to help achieve this. As a serial dress lover, nothing beats the thrill of a favourite midi or maxi dress that will take you from Autumn/Winter into Spring/Summer.  There are some easy ways to ensure that a dress can be worn all year round with some flexible layering ideas.

My go-to layering pieces in winter are roll neck tops, heat-tech or merino vests, tank tops, thick tights, thermal leggings, gilets and cardigans. If you can get these base layers sorted in your wardrobe, they will help transform most things you have into something that will deal with all weather elements.

I find classic colours like navy, black and grey work back with most colours but I’m always a fan of trying to get a bit of extra colour into outfits, and a layering piece is an excellent way to achieve this. This season, bright greens, pinks and blues are key – and are the colours I will be investing in to freshen up my wardrobe.

My second go-to for styling a maxi or midi dress at the moment is a pretty ruffle collar blouse, ruffle collar jersey top or big collar blouse layered underneath. I always think they instantly make a dress look more ‘Scandi cool’, feminine and interesting. It’s a great way to mix things up a bit and update a dress into a completely new look.

You can also get an extra outfit out of a dress by wearing a chunky knit over the top, so it almost looks like you’re wearing a maxi skirt.

Quilted or denim jackets work a treat worn over dresses and they look effortless and classic. Or, on colder days, I layer up a long wool maxi coat or trench over the top of a lighter layer. I also like to embrace the ’70s boho feel that comes with a maxi dress and find a faux fur or long sheepskin gilet gives interest and texture to an outfit.

Next step is footwear – the juxtaposition of chunky boots back with a floaty feminine dress is a formula I’ve been enjoying for a few seasons now. However, if chunky boots aren’t for you then ankle or knee-high boots with a low or flat heel always look good. A tan or burgundy knee-high boot works so well as it really elevates the ’70s vibe and keeps your legs warmer in winter.

I also love retro style trainers with dresses, super easy for everyday wear and running around doing errands!

You could style it with some brogues, a heeled court shoe, a blazer and some jewellery to make it a bit more dressed up. Belts and heels are also a brilliant way to make your dress more workwear or smarter occasion ready. The possibilities really are endless!

This maxi dress is the most stunning colour, an instant calming mood lifter. I look forward to warmer days when I can wear it back very simply with tan sandals but for these cold winter days, I’ll be layering all the way whilst I dream of longer, lighter days ahead!

You can see more of Emma’s styling tips on Instagram at @EmmaPaton_ .

What’s your favourite way to layer a dress for the winter? Show us how you’re #WearingSeasalt and tag @SeasaltCornwall on Instagram.