Kate Garraway's sapphire dress blends the cosiness of knitwear and elegance of satin - it's the perfect combination for autumn events
This layered style is an easy and comfortable outfit formula that you can recreate with a dress or with separates
Finding the perfect elevated outfits for summer events is hard enough, but now it's finally getting colder it can be even more of a struggle to find great autumn/winter event looks. There's only so many times we can reach for jeans and a nice top and if you want something more special and still comfy, Kate Garraway's got the solution.
The Good Morning Britain star recently wore a stunning sapphire-blue midi dress from British clothing brand Florere on the show and it was cosy on top, party on the bottom. The two fabrics were integrated in one design, with a knitted bodice and a satin skirt.
Styled by Holly Slater, the contrast between the materials was gorgeous and the fabrics balanced each other beautifully. Depending on the occasion a jumper dress can feel a little too relaxed whilst a satin skirt with a shirt would be too formal.
Shop Kate Garraway's Cobalt Outfit
Combining the luxurious flow and sheen of satin with the cosiness of knitwear, Kate Garraway's dress is a stunning investment piece for your autumn/winter wardrobe. Style with heels and a long coat for a formal event or dress down with knee-high boots for a date night or drinks.
Affordable and chic, this satin midi slip skirt comes in three different lengths and is also available in black. It's got a high-rise waist and a discreet zip fastening at the side for a neat finish. Tuck in fitted jumpers or tops for a sleek look or throw on a chunky knit and drape it over to be more casual.
Featuring a sweeping boat neckline and long sleeves, this sapphire knit would look great with a flowing midi skirt as well as tucked into jeans. It's on sale right now, making it even more affordable, and you can also get it in ecru and black.
Falling to midi length and featuring a high neckline and long sleeves, this elegant dress from Mint Velvet comes in several shades including khaki green. It's got a split drop-waistband and the satin skirt has a crinkled finish for extra texture.
The sheen of the smooth satin fabric gives this midi design a luxurious feel and it's got a regular waist. Pair with casual knits and boots during the day or elevate it for a special event with heels, tights and a sleek jumper.
Crafted from M&S's soft Air-Yarn, this jumper is lightweight whilst still being warm, which makes it perfect as a layering piece. It's got a regular fit, crew-neckline and ribbed cuffs and hem. The colour range is extensive and includes plenty of neutrals.
Kate Garraway's dress was the perfect smart-casual blend and if you're stuck on what to wear for your next date night or friends' dinner then something like this is such an easy, chic option. I personally love satin slip skirts worn with a slightly chunky or oversized jumper draped over the top and having two pieces adds versatility too.
You can then mix and match your skirt and jumper with your other wardrobe staples to create a variety of autumn outfit ideas outside of wearing them together. However, I must admit that sometimes in the cold weather this time of year I just want a fuss-free outfit and a dress can be thrown on and styled in moments.
Ultimately, it just depends on what is more important to you and with a skirt and jumper, you can still achieve the Kate Garraway-esque sophistication. The key is to pick colours that either match or are very similar, so everything looks cohesive.
With a dress that is done for you and the vibrant sapphire tone of the Good Morning Britain star's frock was so striking. So many different shades of blue are autumn/winter fashion colour trends and Kate's Florere dress also comes in burgundy.
Going for something slightly more neutral tends to be better with a jumper and skirt as you can incorporate them into a bigger range of autumn outfit ideas. For autumn weddings or parties it can be fun to go all-out in a brighter colour like she did.
Kate styled her blue dress with metallic toe-cap heels on the ITV show, but knee-high boots are a lovely leg-elongating alternative with longer skirts and dresses. You can also adjust this half-and-half fabric combination to suit your signature style and favourite silhouettes.
Velvet, leather, suede or silk would all add textural contrast instead of satin and streamlined shapes look great with thicker jumpers. If you've got a skirt or separate dress that flares out then pairing them with fitted knits can help to accentuate the waist and balance proportions.
