The Sweater Dress: Proof You Can Be Warm AND Sexy

As girls, we can't help but have some love for the dresses, but as temperatures fall, what's a fashionista to do? Pull out the sweater dress, and be both cozy AND cool (figuratively, of course). What's not cool? A sweater dress that is too small, too big, or just doesn't fit your body type. Our tips: forget the numbers (cut out the tags if you must) and always always always try it on before you buy (or make sure your online retailer has a good return policy). Oh and Spanx are, as always, your friend.

1. Wyatt Coal Cashmere Studded Shift Dress, $179
$179 might seem a little pricey for a budget fashionista, but keep in mind that a little bling goes a long way (no need for lots of jewelry) AND this dress, being cashmere and a little blingy, might be a fun (and warm) option for some of those holiday parties you've been stressing over.

2. French Connection Port Sophie Belted Stretch Knit Dress, $95
Purple is very hot this fall -- and this dress is both covered up enough for work and sexy enough for play. This, of course, is a more body-conscious option so undergarment checks are always a must.





3. BCBGMAXAZRIA Wool Striped Turtleneck Sweater Dress, $154
With a cowl neck and modern striped pattern, this super comfy-looking sweater dress requires no major accessories -- we'd say big tote bag, knee-high gray boots and possibly a cute knit hat? But that's just us -- it's kinda fun, we think, no matter how you wear it.

4. French Connection Black Knit Everyday Dress, $89
This might be the quintessential sweater dress -- loose (but not a tent), young, and appropriate for a whole host of settings. The best part? It's kind of a blank canvas for your personality -- accessory possibilities are practically endless.

5. Autumn Cashmere Twisted Knot Dress, $195
Yes, at nearly 200 bucks it's kind of an investment (or a splurge, depending on how much you really think you'll wear it), but it's cashmere (lo-ove) and it's sexy while being totally covered up, a rare combination. If your legs are your best feature, this might be the dress for you.




6. Dark Grey Melange Faux Wrap Sweater Dress, $79.50 at Ann Taylor LOFT
Every woman needs a faux wrap dress (just ask Diana Von Furstenberg) so why not make it an affordable sweater version from Ann Taylor LOFT? This incredibly versatile dress will work for, well, work with a jacket and pumps or for a night out with an awesome necklace and some chic ankle boots.

7. Spense Women's Colorblock Kimono Sweater Dress, $29.99 At Sears
This is the kind of dress that's a total win -- affordable, and interesting enough on its own to not require too many accessories. Wear with some knee high flat boots and a cute knit hat for a casual (and warm) Saturday with friends.

**For more fashion tips and advice, please visit TheBudgetFashionista.com


More from AOL Shopping: Enlist In The Military (Trend) For Fall 2010

Watch Us on YouTube: AOLShoppingtv
Become a Fan on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter: AOL Shopping
Sign up for the AOL Shopping newsletter

style team