Wearing dresses in winter? Any alternatives to jeans!

[flupcake]

So, this summer I rediscovered dresses! I bought some lovely soft cotton dresses and it was a revelation. I loved wearing them; dressed up with jewellery and fancy shoes, dressed down with flip flops, over a bikini for the beach, add a cardi for the evening - very versatile. It felt more stylish than my previous denim skirt/vest top combo, and I got quite a few compliments too. (It probably helped that my legs were tanned).

Anyway Autumn is here and already I have found myself slipping back into my usual jeans/converse uniform, and I would like to be more stylish this year! Also, after a summer of wearing dresses, jeans feel quite uncomfortable.
So what is an alternative to jeans? And how do people wear their dresses in winter? I am not that keen on tights but are dresses and leggings frumpy? I have tried baggy tops and leggings but I just look pregnant! Dresses that suit me are those that go in a bit at the waist.
Also how about boots? Does it have to be knee high or have you found ankle boots that work with dresses?
Thank you!

[Ineverpromisedyouarosegarden]

Place marking so I can find out the answer too.

[LadyMoth]

I'm like you, love dresses, and they have to be fitted or in at the waist. And I also do skirts in winter. I do wear tights, but sometimes leggings, with boots, ideally quality leggings that don't go baggy. And yes to ankle boots. So typical winter outfits might be...

Wool miniskirt with tights (or leggings), black chelsea ankle boots, close fitting plain jersey top, and cardie.

Fitted jumper dress, tights or leggings, ankle or biker-type boots

Print, or textured/boucle/tweedy dress with a waist, tights/leggings, boots, cardie.

[LadyMoth]

Here are a couple of pics off the web

here

another one

or this

These are all a bit short for me but you get the general idea...

[flupcake]

Yes maybe if I get some good quality leggings that will be OK. When you look at the clothes online the models always seem to have bare legs! Which probably looks nicer, but isn't going to work on a chilly winter morning....

I do like my dresses on or below the knee though!

[Nearlyadoctor]

I love dresses as so easy and a complete outfit, wear with long boots or ankle boots, always with thick opaques. Again like a nipped in/ defined waist.
I have bought both Hush Tara and Tina dresses for this year. Also a M&S kilt type skirt to be worn with slightly fitted jumpers, again either length boots and tights.
Knitted tunics look good with leggings imo.