Photos: ELLE

Think maxi dresses can only be worn during the warmer months of the year? Think again! With a little creative styling, these glam dresses can work for winter, too.

Below, we'll share some tips and tricks for wearing a maxi dress in the midst of winter, as well as several chic outfit ideas to try:

4 Tips & Tricks to Make Maxi Dresses Work for Winter

• Think practically. Although we love this look, we do have to admit that it may not be practical for every wintertime locale. After all, you don't want to drag a long skirt though two feet of snow, right? But if there's a light dusting of snow (or if you'll be staying mostly indoors) we say go for it!
• Layer up. This is the best way to winterize a maxi dress. Start by adding a sweater or cardigan, then pull on a jacket or coat. Throw on some winter accessorizes, like hats, scarves, and gloves, to stay extra warm.
• Don't forget your legs! After all the coats and sweaters are layered on, do the same for your stems. Even though the long skirt provides coverage, it can still be well, breezy under there, so add an extra layer or two. Thick opaque tights or leggings work wonderfully for this purpose.
• Feet first. Probably the most important element of this look has to do with what footwear you choose, and we believe that boots are the way to go. Whether they're ankle length or knee-high, flat or heeled, boots are a practical and fashionable choice to pair with your maxi dress in the winter.

Outfit Ideas

Need some fashion inspiration before you pull out your maxi dress? Below are two chic ways to wear maxi dresses during winter:

Cozy As Can Be

Product Info: Dress- Boohoo, Sweater- Dorothy Perkins, Coat- Delia's, Scarf- ModCloth, Tights- Gap, Shoes- Zara, Rings- Zara

For a cute, colorful, and cozy look, try out the ensemble above. Layer a graphic knit sweater over a long-sleeved maxi dress. Complement the navy blue hue of the dress with a mint infinity scarf, then pull on a gorgeous purple pea coat. Since this dress has a slit, we opted for a pair of riding boots, as well as some ultra-cozy sweater tights to keep the legs warm. Accessorize with these stackable rings to finish the outfit.

Tough It Out

Product Info: Dress- ModCloth, Jacket- Forever 21, Hat- Warehouse, Earrings- Charlotte Russe, Cardigan- American Eagle Outfitters, Tights- Topshop, Bag- ASOS, Shoes- H&M

For this look, start by pairing a printed maxi dress with a knit cardigan, which will not only keep you warm, but also adds a pretty pop of color. Add a zip-up moto jacket on top to give the outfit some edge. Sleek Chelsea boots and a slouchy handbag maintain the cool girl vibe, while opaque tights and a knit beanie are ideal for cold weather. Complete the ensemble by accessorizing with a pair of unique gold earrings.

Your thoughts?

Would you wear a maxi dress in winter? What do you think of these looks? Which one is your favorite? How would you wear a maxi dress during the winter? Remember to tell us what you think by leaving a comment below!