A Summer Dress in Winter

I’m all about everything winter throughout the month of December. The frigid temperatures make for cozy days spent indoors by the fire, with a mug of something warm and delicious. In December, the holidays are in full swing and the cold weather feels almost festive. However, once January rolls around, I’m over it. Christmas is over, and summer could not feel farther away. When my longing for warm weather feels particularly acute, I’ve found that styling a summer dress in winter brings just the right amount of cheer to make the warmer months feel that much closer.

It’s no secret that I love to repurpose seasonal items for a new climate. There’s something about figuring out how to take a summer item and wear it in cold weather. It encourages extra creativity and it helps me figure out more uses for the pieces in my closet. A win all around!

The key to making a summer dress work in winter is through layering. The dress itself is made of a cotton-linen blend, and while nice and airy for summer, is not ideal for January. No matter. A toasty turtleneck, a pair of tights, and riding boots perfectly transition this piece into a new season.

The more I look at this outfit, the more I’m certain that I’ve stumbled upon a new go-to outfit formula. A long sleeve shirt and boots are the keys to styling any summer dress in winter. If the temperatures continue to dip, fleece lined leggings and a knit sweater also work as warmer layering options.

I’m also loving the vintage vibes of this outfit. I can’t help but feel a little like Anne of Green Gables… if she were to attend a funeral. I think it’s the ruffles, they make the outfit feel very Edwardian. In the best way, obviously.

Now I’m off to test this formula on all of my favorite summer dresses!

Xx, M

outfit details: dress- urban outfitters, turtleneck- zara, boots- frye