I'm a huge fan of dresses at any time of the year, but on a freezing cold Winter morning, you just can't beat the ease of slinging on a single garment before racing out the door. Essentially an entire outfit in one fell swoop, the joy of dresses means zero faff while hunting for things that match - oh and did I mention the comfort?

One of the things I love most about this season's dresses is the variety of gorgeously tactile fabrics they come in... soft wool, smooth satin, sumptuous velvet, cosy cord and sensual leather. They don't just look good; they feel good.

Usually in heavier fabrics, richer hues and longer hemlines than previous seasons, Winter dresses work for every occasion from hanging out with kids to the office or lunch with friends. Add a chunky cardigan or oversized blazer with boots or trainers for a casual look - or dress up with heeled boots and a long wool coat for smarter occasions. When it's proper freezing, add tights and layer over a thin top or roll neck.

While dark florals are on trend for Winter 2019/20 (Topshop and Rixo have some gems), there are so many styles to choose from. Wondering how to wear them? Here are my tips:

Any time, any place: loose tiered maxi (or mini) + Western boots or chunky trainers
Casual days: loose knit dress + chunky ankle boots
The office: shirt dress + heeled boots
Lunch with friends (that may drift into evening): relaxed fit (faux) leather

For a very special daytime occasion, check out these beauties by Roksanda Mina and Victoria Beckham. Fabulous as they are, I think Zara's red ruffled satin and embroidered tulle dresses create just as much impact.

Leopard with pleat details, Scotch & Soda -£119.95

Toast needlecord-tiered-shirt-dress -£160

Vivi embroidered velvet midi, Monsoon -£75

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