What to wear over a dress

Summer is the season of barbecues, weddings and garden parties, where light and airy fabrics take centre stage. However, even the warmest days can bring a chill in the evening, making a well-chosen jacket not just a stylish addition but a practical necessity.

Whether you’re aiming for a casual daytime look or a sophisticated evening attire, the right jacket can seamlessly tie your outfit together while offering just the right amount of coverage to keep you warm. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of jacket options that pair beautifully with dresses, ensuring you stay fashionable and comfortable all summer long.

What jacket to wear with a dress

Most of us are aware of the need to bring a light cover-up for summer evening events, but with so many options available, it can be hard to know which to choose. Fortunately, there are some staple wardrobe classics that can work with several different dresses to ensure a warm, stylish look every time.

• Denim jackets

A highly versatile option, denim jackets add a casual, laid-back framing to any dress. The rugged texture of denim contrasts beautifully with soft, flowing fabrics, creating a balanced look that’s perfect for daytime outings and casual gatherings. When it’s too warm to wear the jacket, you can also tie it around your waist to break up the silhouette of a long dress.

Due to their laid-back nature, denim jackets are usually best for non-formal events such as garden parties, barbecues or shopping trips. Opt for a light wash or even a cropped style to keep the ensemble light and summery.

• Lightweight blazers

For a more polished and sophisticated appearance, a lightweight blazer is an excellent choice. Ideal for evening events or work settings, blazers can elevate a simple dress to a more refined level. They can even look wonderful as part of a wedding or christening outfit, helping you to layer up without having to sacrifice on formality.

Look for blazers made from breathable fabrics like linen or cotton to ensure you stay cool. Neutral tones like beige, white, or pastel shades work wonderfully with summer dresses, adding a touch of elegance without overpowering the outfit. Alternatively, you could pair a neutral dress with a brightly coloured blazer.

• Longline cardigans or jackets

Longline cardigans are another fantastic option, bringing a touch of bohemian flair to your summer wardrobe. A longline cardigan offers snug warmth without the need for a jacket or coat, helping you to stay warm and comfortable even if you’re staying indoors.

Longline jackets, such as kimono-style jackets, are also a great choice, often featuring vibrant patterns and delicate fabrics that can add a pop of interest to a plain dress. Whichever you go for, try to opt for a cardigan or jacket that ends somewhere between your hips and your knees, and above the hem of your dress.

• Cropped jackets or shrugs

These shorter garments are perfect for maintaining the silhouette of your dress while offering a degree of warmth and coverage. Ideal for fit-and-flare dresses or any style where you want to emphasise the waist, cropped jackets can range in formality to suit everything from a wedding ceremony to a picnic get-together.

• Leather jackets

For a slightly more substantial jacket – and one that offers more protection against the weather – a lightweight leather jacket can be a surprising yet stylish choice. While it might seem a little unconventional for summer, a soft, light-coloured leather jacket can add a trendy twist to a feminine dress.

How to style dresses with jackets

Pairing dresses with jackets during the summer is an art that balances style, comfort and practicality. Below are some things to consider when it comes to choosing a jacket for summer.

• Fabric

In summer, opt for jackets made from lightweight, breathable materials like cotton, linen, or lightweight denim. These fabrics allow for air circulation, keeping you cool while providing an extra layer. Avoid heavy or lined jackets, which can trap heat and cause discomfort.

• Fit

The fit of your jacket is crucial. Cropped jackets, for instance, pair well with A-line or fit-and-flare dresses, accentuating the waist and maintaining the dress’s silhouette. Loose, flowing jackets like kimonos work well with bodycon or slip dresses, adding a flowing style without overwhelming the dress's shape.

• Colour

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with vibrant colours and pastels. A white or light-coloured jacket can add a fresh, crisp look to a brightly coloured or patterned dress. Conversely, a brightly coloured jacket can make a simple, neutral dress pop. Coordinating your jacket with a colour in your dress’s pattern can create a harmonious and pulled-together look.

• Patterns

Mixing patterns can be tricky but rewarding. Pairing a patterned jacket with a solid dress or vice versa is a safe and stylish choice. If you’re feeling bold, mix patterns by keeping one pattern subtle and the other more pronounced, ensuring they share a common colour palette.

• Occasion

Think about the level of formality required by the event you’re dressing for. If there is a casual, relaxed dress code, a leather jacket, denim jacket or cardigan would work well, paired with sandals or canvas shoes for a laid-back look.

For a more formal occasion, blazers, tailored jackets or shrugs would be more appropriate, bringing a level of sophistication to your outfit for the transition from day to night. Pair your outfit with heels or elegant flats to complete the look.

By thoughtfully pairing dresses with the right jackets and shrugs, you can create versatile, stylish outfits perfect for any summer occasion.