An outfit that might seem a little tricky at first to master (but is a whole lot simpler than we think) is the jacket and dress combo. Why so tricky, you might ask? Well, because we all know what it looks like when it’s done badly. A jacket of the wrong length over a thick, voluminous dress will look boxy and add unnecessary bulk to your frame. It’s easy to feel too covered up and weighed down when this pairing isn’t layered right.
What Kind of Jacket to Wear with a Dress?
- The most popular style of jacket to wear with a dress is a tie between these two: moto biker jackets and denim jackets. There’s something about these two that really pair well with most styles of dresses, so if you are feeling unsure about what are the best jackets for dresses, start with one of these styles for guaranteed success. You can find inspiration from our earlier post on Varsity Jacket Outfits For Women.
- To highlight your figure, consider a dress that draws in at the waist. This look works really well under a jacket or coat. If you are wearing a dress that doesn’t pull in at the waist or under the bust, consider a belt or a tie to cinch the waist.
- If wearing a maxi dress with a jacket, always wear high heels. This will create a longer, more elongated look, which is desirable if you’re wearing a long dress. If you prefer a flat shoe, consider boots, or sneakers that have a little height to them. If wearing a summer look, you can definitely try sandals or flip-flops, but this style look works best for the beach or other summer style activities.
- Before trying a longer style jacket, try a jacket that falls right at your hip bones or above them. If it hits below your hips, you might appear a little wider or boxier looking when wearing a dress.
- Finally, incorporating a jacket into your look doesn’t necessarily mean you have to wear the jacket. You can tie it around the waist (particularly if you are wearing a denim jacket) or you could wear it sitting on your shoulders. Both looks are stylish and work well.
How to Layer Your Dresses with Jackets?
26 – With Maxi Dresses
Picking the right jacket for a maxi dress is pretty easy. Stick to a jacket length that falls no longer than your hip bones and look for one of a slimmer make. You want one that sticks closer to your figure if at all possible, and you might consider a dress that cinches in below the bust or at the waist.
25 – Moto Jacket with Midi Dress
A sleek party look can incorporate a satin slip dress with a moto jacket. The blend of edgier pieces with the soft femininity of the dress is truly iconic and one that you can rock for a variety of occasions.
24 – Black on Black
Whether you are dressing for fall weather or winter, this black-on-black outfit is super chic and makes a serious fashion statement. A shorter leather jacket works well with a more shapeless dress. Add a beaded headband for a little flair!
23 – Animal Print Dress with Leather Jacket and Belt
Here’s another slaying outfit that utilizes the uber-popular and very stylish pairing of animal print with leather. The look is edgy but it’s girlish, too, especially with the addition of some white sneakers which softens the outfit. You could swap out the sneakers though, particularly if you are trying to create a sleeker look. Since animal prints are super trendy this season, do check out these Cute Animal Print Outfits for Women.
22 – Dark Coat with White Sneakers
Perfect for those colder winter months, this long-sleeved turtleneck dress is just the thing to pair with a thick, though plain wool coat. This style coat has a draping effect and the length coordinates well with the midi-length frock. Two things to keep in mind when going for a look like this.
21 – Floral Jean Jacket and Slip Dress
Instead of settling for a plain blue jean jacket (which is the most popular choice) this gal went with a white floral piece, very reminiscent of ’90s fashion, and wore it over a satin slip dress. The effect is very feminine and pretty, especially when paired with some delicate ankle-strap sandals and a woven straw bag.
20 – Pretty Spring or Summer Outfit
Similar to the previous outfit, the look has a few similar elements (like the slip dress and the denim jacket) but this lady kept the look a little more casual by wearing sneakers with the outfit and tying the dress around her waist. A half-up, half-down ‘do and a simple necklace round off the look.
19 – Footwear for a Jacket and Dress Outfit
If you keep your eye on the footwear shown in these looks, they range from sneakers to sandals to boots to flats. There is so much versatility and great options out there so try a few before deciding on what best suits your look.
18 – Little Jackets to Wear Over Dresses
Here are two examples of really cute jacket options that vary from the typical leather jacket or denim jacket options. Both feature detailing and embroidery and they pair really well with classic dresses. Think outside the box and don’t be afraid to try something out of your comfort zone.
17 – Dressy Look for Plus Size
Toss a leather jacket around your shoulders for the perfect finishing touch to any dress outfit. I love these sleek pumps that keep the outfit feeling very chic and fresh.
16 – Chiffon Dress and Moto Jacket for Petites
I love the unexpected touch of men’s-inspired loafers in this look which brings a new element to the breezy, girly dress and the edgy jacket.
15 – Perfect Look for Fall
We tend to see a lot of black biker jackets but keep in mind there are other options out there, like this dark burgundy moto jacket, which looks totally fabulous over a white turtleneck and pinafore style dress. Finish off the ensemble with some white sneakers.
14 – What Jacket to Wear with a Dress to a Wedding?
A soft brown leather jacket with some ruched sleeves is a great option for a wedding dress look. Dress up the outfit with a wide-brimmed felt hat and a sleek purse.
13 – With Wedge Heels
Here’s a great look for church or another outdoor activity on a cool day. A black shift dress paired with a denim jacket. Peep that popped collar and hoop earrings! This is a great look for a mom on the go. Here are some more fab Outfits with Denim Jackets.
12 – Christmas Party Outfit
Headed to a holiday party? Add a biker jacket to your lace dress and throw on some tights to stay warm!
11 – Casual Over 50 Fashion
An easy way to elevate a simple shift-dress-and-flip-flops outfit is by adding a shawl and a pair of statement earrings. It’s a laidback but chic look, perfect for dinner on the veranda on a cool night.
10 – Black and Red
Once again, we see the total versatility of a leather jacket. It pairs beautifully with this red, knee-length dress and is finished off with some strappy heels. Love it!
9 – For Wedding
Another option for wedding guest attire is to get a set. Oftentimes, a matching set of a dress and jacket, specifically created for a wedding, will look more formal and put-together than casually pairing a nice dress with an off-the-rack jacket.
8 – For Women over 50
Another great outfit for ladies over 50 utilizes a navy blue dress belted at the waist, with the addition of a long pendant necklace. This is a great way to retain silhouette and shape without sacrificing the comfort of a jean jacket.
7 – Date Night Look
6 – Summer Dresses
Swap out your blue denim jacket for a white one to bring a lighter, fresher feel to your summer dress outfit. Choosing brighter, poppier colors is an easy way to get that warm-weather feeling in your look.
5 – Zipper Leather jacket
4 – Casual Everyday Attire
This simple white dress gets leveled up with a moto jacket slung over the shoulders. You can wear booties, sandals, or sneakers with this look to finish it off.
3 – Perfect Date Night Outfit
You just can’t go wrong with a cute dress topped off with a leather jacket. Add a thin belt to cinch the waist and some gold jewelry to accent the outfit.
2 – Floral Mini Dress
Similar to the previous look, this jacket is tricked out with some cool straps and buckles, keeping it from looking plain and perfectly complementing the whimsical dress.
1 – Deep Purple Dress
I love the richness of this frock downplayed with a rugged denim jacket. Girlish but comfortable and can be worn for just about any everyday occasion.
