Vogue.com

Cold weather can really put a damper on your style. Unless, of course, you’ve prepped your wardrobe with seasonally fit staples. It doesn’t get cozier than the best winter maxi dresses when you’re in the mood for a throw-on-and-go piece. Yes, indeed, coats, essential sweaters, boots, and chill-proof accessories are critical for a stylish bundle. But for total ease, ankle-grazing maxis—from sweater dresses to versatile black and winter white designs—equate to cozy-chic comfort in an instant. Similarly, luxe leather, suede, and cashmere styles epitomize the winter season with polished panache. At the same time, velvet, silk, and beautiful prints are well suited to dressier moments.

When you think about it, there’s almost no occasion when a winter maxi won’t work. They appear effortlessly polished at work, unassumingly alluring on a date, and festive for parties, from holiday gatherings to weddings. And even better, the effort always feels minimal when dressing in your favorite style, requiring just a few accessories to complete the look. Like a pair of boots, be it a block-heeled silhouette or sumptuous suede style, or heels, such as pumps, kitten heels, or party sandals befitting occasions. A top layer is essential when braving the elements in a winter maxidress too. A fleece denim jacket or puffer will lend extra warmth on casual days, while timeless wool and jacquard designs are elegant when dressing up. Finally, of course, you won’t want to forget jewelry—perhaps a zodiac pendant or earrings for a personal touch? Or a sculptural piece of silver mixed with a few delicately layered gold pieces. Keep scrolling to discover Vogue’s edit of the chicest winter maxidresses, from casually elegant to sophisticated to charmingly festive.

The Knitted Dress

The ultimate winter maxidress is unquestionably a knitted style, whether your silhouette of choice is fitted, A-line, or straight, detailed with a self-tie belt.

The Leather and Suede Dress

For statement-making moments, a winter maxi dress cut from leather or suede is the epitome of bold, whether for an important meeting, special dinner, or cocktail soiree.

The High-Neckline Dress

Mock and turtleneck dresses are staples in the cold; when going the maxi route this season, dresses vary from subtly sophisticated to casual and vibrant with cutouts.

The Cashmere Dress

Few things are as luxurious as cashmere. So why not envelop yourself in a winter maxi dress knitted from the sumptuous fabric?

The Winter White Dress

For a masterful take on winter white, it doesn’t get more effortless than a 
maxi dress—shades of cream definitely count.

The Velvet Dress

You’ll make an impact on the holiday-party circuit in a velvet maxi dress, be it a turtleneck, ruffled, or elegantly spliced design. You can even wear one for work with a smart blazer in the mix.

The Black Dress

There’s no shame in defaulting to black, especially when it’s a beautiful 
maxi dress for understated chic.

The Printed Dress

Whether for a party or a sophisticated daytime look, you’ll make a splash in a printed winter maxi dress with long sleeves.

The Silk Dress

The ultimate day-to-night winter maxi dress is, indeed, one crafted from silk. Naturally some skew more formal than others—in that case, reserve it for an elegant party.