33 fab winter wedding guest outfits to shop now (2024)

How to be the best-dressed guest, even in the cold

By Sophie Leen, Courtney Smith and Maddy Alford

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Winter wedding guest dresses are some of the most fun to shop for, because there's so much incredible choice. From romantic velvet to puff sleeves, metallics, florals, and silk, we've rounded up the prettiest buys of the season.

Before you know it, you'll find those upcoming "I-do"s you have pencilled in your calendar falling into that beloved (manifesting is a real thing, right?) winter period, so why not make sure you're prepped and ready? That way, when the big day does finally arrive, you can skip the last-minute scramble and rest easy, knowing that your ensemble is not only good to go but also downright gorgeous.

Cooler temperatures will likely have you reaching for longer hemlines, but we're of the belief that the mini dress can work at any time of year if picked correctly. Thicker fabrics, billowing sleeves and higher necklines will all balance out bare legs, and there are always good old tights should you need more layering. Plus, there's nothing wrong with adding a winter coat or oversized blazer to and from the location if it means that once you arrive, you'll look and feel incredible.

As for the style of your dress, the time of day, venue and theme will all determine how fancy you go, but if you think the occasion calls for more than what your number of choice is offering, you can always take things up a notch by adding a killer pair of heels, opting for statement jewellery or both.

To help inspire you, we've gone and picked out the best guest outfits for winter weddings, including maxi dresses, midi dresses and the mini. No matter your style or budget, there's an item for you. So, all that's left to do is get shopping.

1

Abercrombie & Fitch Plunge cowl back maxi dress

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We bet you didn't think Abercrombie & Fitch would be the place you found your outfit for such a formal affair. But aren't you glad you did?

2

Reformation Casette silk dress

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Reformation is our Shopping Editor's first port of call for any wedding guest outfits. And this slinky backless dress is perfection - choose your favourite from 8 colours.

3

Georgia Hardinge Metallic fossil gown

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Free People has a jaw-dropping selection of maxi dresses for you to make a grand entrance in, like this beautiful metallic Georgia Hardinge gown. The unique ruched pattern was inspired by ancient fossils, and also happens to be very flattering when the light hits it.

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4

Marks & Spencer Floral v-neck midi dress

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You can't go wrong with a floral tea dress at an English wedding, and Marks & Spencer's versions are both beautiful and budget-friendly.

5

Kate Kasin Bodycon one-shoulder evening dress

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Some dresses are worth risking a cold shoulder for, like this absolute *steal* from Amazon Fashion. But a jacket thrown casually over the top on the way to the venue should do the trick, too.

6

best winter wedding guest cut-out dress

Abercrombie & Fitch Satin pleated cutout maxi dress

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Abercrombie has grown up with us over the years, and we adore this magenta cut-out gown from their occasionwear lineup. Just add an oversized blazer.

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7

H&M Draped jersey dress

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H&M's slinky draped jersey dress looks like a designer pick worth many times more than its £27.99 price tag. Contrast the inky navy blue colour with sparkling diamantés, gold, or silver jewellery.

8

Reiss Fitted belt strap jumpsuit

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If you're more comfortable in a trouser, consider this sharp jumpsuit from Reiss. You can wear it to more formal office environments and co*cktail evenings for years to come, as it's a timeless shape.

9

Pink City Prints Royal Blue Bouquet Petworth Dress

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If you love romantic florals and ruffles, check out Pink City Prints. They have a bevy of gorgeous feminine dresses that can be worn year-round, like this high neck one. They opt for more sustainable practices too, and employee local artisans to work on the designs.

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10

Celia B Antártico Dress

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Simplistic but with an added pop of neon colour, this black midi dress is all about the thick embroidered scalloped detailing. Not to mention the button V neck, drawstring tie and side pockets to finish (pockets!!). Pair with a statement clutch, heels and a chic updo.

11

Mango Draped neck satin dress

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Now 49% Off

Have your very own How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days moment in this golden low-back dress. Top with an opulent faux-fur coat, "mob wife" style.

12

Ghost Satin round neck midi column dress

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For something more modest (and let's be honest, warmer) Ghost's long sleeve satin gown is absolutely stunning. Thanks to the simple shape, this is another one suitable for the office, too.

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13

& Other Stories Floral-appliqué midi dress

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If you can't stand being cold, may we suggest this winter-friendly-frock from & Other Stories? The long sleeve, high neck, midi length design will keep you toasty with tights and knee high boots (and your fluffiest jacket.)

14

ASOS One shoulder dress

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One-shoulder dresses are everywhere this season, and this dramatic one from ASOS would be great for swooshing around on the dance floor.

15

Anthropologie Jacquard puff sleeve mini dress

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The thick, firm jacquard fabric is what takes this minidress from a summer one to a great winter wedding option. Now your next choice is: flats or platforms?

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16

Rotate Birger Christensen Noon open-back printed satin midi dress

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The striking open back on this dress is tied shut with the trend of the season; bows. Two of them. Is there anything more romantic?

17

best one-shoulder winter wedding guest dress

Pretty Lavish Asymmetric ruched satin midaxi dress in emerald

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Another slide, another one-shoulder dress. (Didn't we tall ya they were big this season?) This emerald green number will make you the best-dressed guest at the co*cktail hour (and the after party).

18

Reformation Kallie square-neck georgette dress

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Make like the "lady in red" emoji and swish about the dance floor in Ref's bold red gown.

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19

Marks & Spencer Floral Round Neck Midi Tea Dress

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M&S tea dresses hit the spot and are top tier cost-per-wear. Think of all the ways you can wear this one...

20

River Island Brown satin belted slip midi dress

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River Island's got perfect dresses for every occasion, from weddings to co*cktail parties, birthdays, and even baby showers. This brown silky number is v chic, and people won't know it only cost you £60.

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Sophie Leen

Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items.

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Courtney Smith

Fashion Assistant

Courtney Smith is Fashion Assistant at Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK, where she works across both print and digital. She has been in the fashion industry for over nine years, initially as a model and later as a fashion assistant and writer in media. When she is not assisting on shoots with the likes of Tom Daley and Raye or bringing about a surge in online hula hoop sales, she can be found at the ponds getting in some quality time with her one true love: swimwear.

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Maddy Alford

Fashion Editor

Maddy Alford is the Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK, covering fashion content online and in print. Maddy specialises in shopping galleries and first-person reviews of the best fashion buys, from jeans and jewellery to wedding dresses, gymwear, and winter coats. She also writes op-eds on on pop culture, viral fashion moments, travel journalism, fitness, and the LGBTQ+ community's relationship with style. Maddy is also a fashion stylist who has worked on over 100 photoshoots at Hearst, including those starring Raye, Niall Horan, and Lena Dunham. Previously, she has worked in fashion PR and e-commerce, including stints at ELLE US and UK, Net-a-Porter, InStyle, and Time Out New York. Maddy has ten years of experience in the fashion industry in both London and New York City, after graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. She is passionate about second-hand shopping, inclusive fashion, running on Regent's Canal, and finding London's cosiest pubs.

33 fab winter wedding guest outfits to shop now (2024)

FAQs

What is the best color to wear to a winter wedding? ›

Metallic tones such as gold, silver, and bronze, also work well for winter weddings. Pro tip from wedding planner, Karen Brown: "If you're attending a winter wedding, dress in warm colors like burgundy, brown, purple, gray, and green."

What to wear as a guest to a winter wedding? ›

When it comes to style for a winter wedding, you'll often see dark colors or jewel tones, crushed velvet dresses, and even some long-sleeve gowns.

What shoes to wear for a winter wedding? ›

Those strappy, open toe heels may not be the best choice for a winter wedding so explore your options. Pointed, rounded and closed-toe footwear or some stylish boots will be your best bet. Whatever you choose, make sure they're comfortable, walking in heels in the snow can be a real challenge!

How can I look stylish in winter wedding? ›

Winter is the season of cosy fabrics, so why not incorporate that into your ethnic ensemble? Velvet, brocade and silk are not only regal but also excellent insulators against the chill. A velvet blouse paired with a silk sari or a brocade lehenga can effortlessly elevate your winter wedding look.

What is the most beautiful color for a wedding? ›

For a regal wedding palette, consider an emerald green, white, and gold color combo. The emerald shade lends a royal feel that can be elevated with velvet tablecloths and gold metallic accents. This color palette also works great for rustic weddings. The hues will pop in wedding venues like barns and farmhouses.

Can you wear a floral dress to a winter wedding? ›

Winter florals

Florals have always been a fail-safe option for weddings; there's something beautifully romantic about nature-inspired prints and, with the right styling, they needn't be the preserve of summer nuptials.

Can I wear all black to a winter wedding? ›

The color black isn't limited to a certain time of the year, but it usually makes more sense to sport the shade at a fall or winter wedding since it matches the dark, moody weather.

Do you have to wear a long dress to a winter wedding? ›

Since a winter wedding is in the winter when it's, well, cold out, you may want to choose a long sleeve dress. You could go short (I love this one and it's on sale) or a full length gown too. A midi length is also great.

What is not appropriate to wear as a wedding guest? ›

It doesn't matter if the dress code requests "casual" attire, jeans, T-shirts, shorts, flip-flops, and sneakers are never appropriate to wear as a wedding guest. Show respect for the bride and groom by dressing formally. Sabatino suggests that men show up in a jacket and tie, even when the invitation says casual.

Can you wear bare legs to a winter wedding? ›

Thicker fabrics, billowing sleeves and higher necklines will all balance out bare legs, and there are always good old tights should you need more layering.

Can I wear a sleeveless dress to a winter wedding? ›

Go ahead and wear that flattering strapless gown!

Can you wear strappy heels in winter in the winter? ›

But trust us, if you struggle with walking in pumps, then the self-tie strappy winter heels will be your new bestie. This style of winter heels gives you the option during the cooler months of the year to still flaunt your legs without being afraid of falling over due to the wet weather.

What are the best colors to wear to a winter wedding? ›

Jewel tones (like navy blue, ruby red, emerald green and purple) are always a popular choice, as are metallic colors, like silver and gold. Warm pastels, like mauve and sage green, can create an earthy, cozy atmosphere for an indoor winter wedding.

How to dress for a winter wedding guest? ›

A cozy wrap or shawl can easily winterize a look while keeping you warm, so consider investing in a coverup for all of your winter events. Who can forget about fabric and color when picking their winter wedding guest outfit? Deep jewel tones and rich fabrics, like velvet and satin, are fab choices for winter weddings.

How do I look classy and elegant in winter? ›

Mix neutrals for elegance – Neutral beige, gray, and black colors are vital in winter fashion. You can layer them in shades to create a refined and elegant look. For instance, a charcoal gray coat over a light gray sweater creates a subtle, stylish contrast.

Should you wear black to a winter wedding? ›

The Season. The color black isn't limited to a certain time of the year, but it usually makes more sense to sport the shade at a fall or winter wedding since it matches the dark, moody weather.

What is the best color to wear as a guest to a wedding? ›

Neutral shades are timeless options that won't detract from the wedding's formal atmosphere. For a more colorful look, consider wearing shades of blue, lavender, or pink to show that you're in the celebratory spirit. If the wedding is in a tropical destination, opt for colors like yellow, orange, and green.

Is it OK to wear red to a winter wedding? ›

Additional Wedding Guest Style Tips

Specifically, Hurwitz points out that “for a fall or winter wedding, look for moodier shades of red like cranberry, crimson, ruby, or wine." Rich, heavy textures, such as velvet and jacquard, will also heighten the luxury of your look—especially for a formal or black-tie wedding.

Can you wear purple to a winter wedding? ›

Typically, the perfect colours for a wedding at this time of year are more toned down and darker compared to summer, using tones such as red, green, gold, black, blue, purple and berry. Purple – a Royal colour associated with Advent which makes it a perfect colour for a Winter wedding.

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