While it's always been a given that New York women will bare their legs even in the depths of winter, British women much prefer their trusty 40 deniers over having to freeze off their knee caps. 

True, some outfits do look better with a subtly-tanned calf (we're in winter so no full-on Côte d'Azur tans please), but we're more in favour of embracing our inner-school girl and donning a thick pair of wollen tights. 

But how exactly and what exactly should you wear with a pair of black pantyhose? For starters, you need a dress that's not too much, so opt for a fitted jumper dress or perhaps a long-sleeved frock in a block colour to detract attention from below.

Then on your feet, all you need are a pair of Chelsea boots or black trainers. Come the evening, however, you can change into a pair of killer heels to go swiftly from day to night wear. 

Take a look at 25 of our favourite winter dresses by clicking on the gallery below.