Burgundy has become fashion’s latest fixation. Deeper than crimson, more interesting than brown and infinitely more wearable than the fleeting “It” shades of seasons past, this wine-soaked hue is winter’s quiet favourite.
Sitting somewhere between cherry and oxblood, burgundy takes its name from the red wines of France’s Burgundy region (what’s not to love?). It’s luxurious without being loud, and, crucially, easy to style. Even those of us who rarely stray from head-to-toe black can dabble in the shade without feeling out of our depth.
From high-shine leather and liquid satin to plush, cocooning knitwear, burgundy has infiltrated every corner of the autumn/winter wardrobe. But, on the AW25 catwalks, designers made the strongest case for the burgundy dress.
Max Mara’s AW25 collection was practically an ode to the wine-tinged hue, opening with monochrome looks of sweeping cashmere, ribbed knits and sculptural tailoring. The standout was a cocooning knitted cape dress with cosy front pockets. At Ferragamo, the exploration skewed sensual, with a lace-trimmed slip dress in vintage-boudoir burgundy shade styled beneath an oversized faux-fur coat. Elsewhere, Tod’s presented strapless knit gowns, proving the shade works just as well for evening as it does for everyday.
Whether you’re drawn to velvet, silk or knitted textures, a burgundy dress will carry you into the depths of winter with ease. Here are the most stylish ways to wear one now.
The Velvet Mini
Try a plush burgundy velvet mini-dress layered under a black wool overcoat, balancing feminine flourishes with oversized outerwear. Add lace-up knee-high boots for a slightly gothic feel and keep jewellery minimal – stud earrings or a slim cuff are enough.
Rixo Delphina Velvet Minidress
& Other Stories Large Patent-Leather Tote Bag
Lili Curia Isadora Tall Boot
The Pleated Midi
A burgundy pleated midi-dress feels fresh when paired with a boxy denim jacket. Anchor the look with trainers (bonus points if they’re in a tonal shade for a chic monochrome effect).
Tory Burch Ella Natuura™ Drawstring Tote
Dries Van Noten Nylon Sneakers
The Satin Slip
A deep burgundy satin slip dress is a natural match for faux fur. Opt for an oversized coat to contrast the fluidity of the dress, then finish with coordinating satin mules. A cross-embossed bag adds subtle texture without overpowering the look.
Serena Bute Satin Midi Dress With Lace Hem
The Frankie Shop Hope Faux Fur Jacket
Arket Croco-Embossed Clutch
The Ruffle Smock
For an easy daytime look, pair a ruffled smock dress with a sporty bomber jacket. Add slouchy black leather accessories – a Loewe Flamenco shoulder bag and ruffled ballet flats – to contrast the frills.
The Frankie Shop Astra Shell Bomber Jacket
Loewe Flamenco Large Embellished Leather Clutch
Massimo Dutti Soft Stretch Leather Ballet Flats
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The Cosy Knit
Lean into the richness of the hue with a full monochrome look. Opt for a burgundy maxi knit dress under a tonal leather bomber, finished with burgundy boots. A gleaming gold pendant adds a warm focal point.
Max Mara Wool And Cashmere Slim-Fit Dress
Anine Bing Kelanie Jacket
Alighieri Gold-Plated Il Leone Medallion Necklace
Paris Texas Jane Leather Knee Boots
The Draped Mini
A Vivienne Westwood gathered mini in deep burgundy feels instantly winter-appropriate. Style it with a houndstooth wool coat, knee-high socks and chunky boots for a punk-leaning take.
Vivienne Westwood Mini Ginnie Amber Jersey Dress
Max Mara Alpaca And Wool Trench Coat
Topshop Rachel knee high chunky heeled boot in chocolate
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