7 Winter Formal Dresses for Any Budget and Chilly Event

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Somewhere between the Christmas in July parties and ugly sweater bonanzas, there’s often a formal event that creeps up on us each winter — a wedding, end of financial year bash or maybe even a pre-HSC school dance. And while trying to find an outfit that fits the occasion might feel like whirlwind of dressing rooms, scrolling online and hours questioning whether you need sleeves or not, it doesn’t have to be a headache.

We suggest going for winter formal dresses with thicker materials and longer cuts to keep you warmer through the day (or night) and choosing colours that are more subdued for a touch of extra class. Picking a more neutral colour palette for your outfit will also allow you to wear it again without worrying if the shade is out of style. Add a coat and some statement jewellery and you’re good to go. If the event is around the corner and you’re still searching for a dress you can call “the one”, we’ve got you covered.

Ahead, we’ve sourced a number of winter formal dresses to suit any budget and event space, from indoor to outdoor, black tie to semi formal.

Pasduchas Composure Gown

A dress that feels straight out of “The Devil Wears Prada”, the Composure Gown ($390) from Pasduchas screams classy, winter formal. Although it might look quite modest, you can still show a little skin with the exposed neckline and curve hugging fit.

House of CB Milena Jersey Corset Maxi Dress

The Milena Jersey Corset Maxi Dress ($398) may look simple, but within the fabric is an intricately designed corset that will cinch you in and push you up. Call it effortless glamour, this dress is made to be seen. Wear it with a faux fur shawl for some warmth.

Cue Black One Shoulder Dress

If you’re worried about whether or not sleeves are the way to go, check out Cue’s Black One Shoulder Dress (now $290.50, was $415). It’s a happy medium between the two. You can dress it up with some knee high boots or keep it casual with a pair of strappy sandals.

Calli Linsey Knit Dress

You can take the Calli Linsey Knit Dress ($139.95) from winter to spring effortlessly. It’s a more relaxed style with a modern elegance. The pleated element on the skirt adds character and texture to an outfit without any added fuss. Pair this with some strappy kitten heels or chunkier platform shoes to top it off.

Esther & Co. Dorrien Knit Dress

Accentuate your décolletage with the fluffy, feathered goodness of Esther & Co.’s Dorrien Knit Dress ($119.95). Made with a thicker ribbed material, this dress hugs your curve and hits a few inches below the knee, keeping you a warm as possible, even with the exposed neckline.

Solace London Karli Maxi Dress

The Solace London Maxi Dress ($990) is fit for a winter formal and red carpet too. It may be on the pricier side of things, but the style and elegance are worth the investment. You can wear this over and over for any higher end events across the year.

Showpo Grittah One Shoulder Ruched Maxi Dress

Another one shoulder dress, this time with billowing sleeves and a flowing skirt. The Grittah One Shoulder Ruched Maxi Dress ($119.95) comes in sizes from 4 to 20, and the reviews say it’s a flattering, true-to-size fit.

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