Feminine Winter Clothes – Styling Tips for a Romantic Aesthetic

It’s a challenge coming up with feminine winter outfits, when the floaty, lightweight floral dresses and skirts of summer seem far away. Here are some ideas for adding some feminine style to your winter wardrobe that balances comfort with style.

Layering is a Must - (But Keep it Light and Soft)

• Start with thin, warm base layers so you outfit stays light instead of bulky. I love thin but warm wool cardigans, silk undershirts you can wear under sweaters (traps heat next to your body) and opaque tights or leggings under skirts
• Pair heavier, structured coats with softer pieces like chiffon skirts or blouses for a feminine touch
• Keep layers in a similar tone so the outfit looks cohesive, not heavy
• Add soft texture with fitted knit sweaters and scarves - these add warmth without lots of bulky layers

Feminine Winter Color Palette

Here's a winter color palette moodboard I made to help you think about colors that look beautiful in winter time.

• Soft neutrals - white, cream, dove grey, beige
• Muted pastels - light pink, blue, green, mauve and even yellow
• Hints of precious materials - a bit of gold, silver, platinum and pearls
• Jewel tones also work well - burgundy, forest green, deep purple, navy blue

Add Floral Print Elements

A lot of winter fabrics come in solids so add feminine floral prints to break things up. 

These prints usually come in lighter fabrics like chiffon, silk and rayon so you may have to use one statement piece mixed with solids if you want to stay warm!

Pictured above is our Madeline Midi Skirt in Cream.

Know Your Winter Fabrics

Knowing your way around winter fabrics can help you pick clothing that is warm, soft and comfortable.

Wools

• Merino: soft, breathable and naturally insulating - perfect for sweaters or sweater dresses
  
• Cashmere: Luxuriously soft, lightweight and warm. Feels cozy without adding bulk
  
• Flannel: A woven fabric used for dresses, shirts, pants and skirts. Slightly brushed for softness, it's the perfect combination of comfort and warmth. All Sweet Violet wool skirts are made of wool flannel
  
• Twill and Melton: Structured and warm, heavier - great for outerwear that hold their shape
  
• Other options: Lambswool, shetland or yak wool

Velvets

• Polyester velvet: Soft, rich texture, easy to care for, and keeps warmth well.
• Silk velvet: Lighter and more delicate; less insulating but adds luxurious drape — good as accent pieces or layered under warmer fabrics.
• Silk velvet is lighter and less insulating, so it’s best layered under warmer fabrics or used for sleeves, skirts, or blouses rather than outer layers.
• Polyester velvet is warmer and more durable, ideal for dresses and coats that you want to wear all day.

Other Winter-Friendly Fabrics

• Knits: Wool or synthetic blends for sweaters, cardigans, and layering pieces.
• Chiffon & Silk accents: Lightweight, flowing, and feminine; pair with warmer fabrics like wool or velvet to keep the outfit balanced
  
• Faux fur or shearling trims: Adds warmth and a touch of cozy texture to coats, collars, or accessories
  
• Corduroy: Soft yet structured, great for skirts or pants with subtle texture
  
  

Our Isabella Maxi Skirt in Mid Grey, made of softly brushed wool flannel.

Its all in the Details - Add Feminine Touches to your Outfit

Another way to break up those solid colors is to add some feminine details that can totally transform your outfit.

• Trim: If you don't want to wear an entire piece made of lightweight fabric, choose something with trim like lace, velvet, chiffon or silk - often on the neckline, hemline or sleeves 
• Ruffles: Adding ruffles to a sweater neckline or sleeves, or on a dress or skirt is an instant romantic touch
• Embroidery: Embroidered cardigans are easy to find and add pretty touches to an otherwise simple outfit
• Jewels: Small details at the collar or buttons catch the light without overpowering the look

Madeline Midi Skirt in Wine.

Feminine winter dressing can feel like a lot, but it really comes down to a few simple things — figuring out how you like to layer, choosing fabrics you enjoy wearing, and adding small feminine details where you can.

I’d love to know which outfit you liked most!

If you enjoy this style of dressing, you can find more handcrafted pieces at our collection at Sweet Violet, and follow along on Instagram or Facebook, or join the newsletter for new looks and inspiration - links and sign up down below 👇