Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (2024)

What should a guest wear to a winter wedding?Winter weddings can be a challenge to dress up for because cold weather doesn’t allow for anything much. We’d sure love to come all bundled up and cozy, but that's amongst the list of things NOT to do at a wedding as a guest. But a wedding is no place for a Yeti. And unless you don’t mind having your toes fall off, then you could try wearing that gorgeous wedding summer getup in - 5 degree weather.Before you RSVP regrets, we’d like you to know that there is a whole world of wonderful winter outfits that are perfect for the coldest of seasons…Read on to find out what to wear to a winter wedding.

Wedding catalogs are awash with pages and pages of wedding outfits fit for summer simply because most couples get hitched during the toastier months. What if we told you that it IS possible to find outfits you don’t need to cover with a heavy winter jacket … if you know where to look. Read on and steal our tips for what to wear to a winter wedding! And while you’re at it, we’ll let you in our favorite pieces to buy at Target!Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (1)

Cameron & Tia Photography

Tips on Picking Out What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

We’ve had our fair share of winter weddings… and tell you what, it’s never a toss-up between being warm and glamming up. Here are some of our greatest tips for what to wear to a winter wedding.

Tip #1: Yes, you can wear a dress!

Yes. You CAN wear a dress! Layer two dresses together and add some serious winter boots. A summer dress easily blends into the season with winter elements such as a winter frock (yey insulation!!), a drape fur or a fur vest.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (2)

Tip #2: If you choose to wear a dress, a long dress is preferred

Should you go for a dress, consider a long one with slits or cutouts. Long dresses don’t have to look matronly. Not a huge fan of long dresses? Pair your short dress with thermal pantyhose or tights.

Tip #3: Long-sleeved dresses are totally trendy

When we’re asked what to wear to a winter wedding, our knee-jerk answer is always something warm. Long sleeved dresses are a no-brainer. And they don’t need to look boring! Cute long-sleeved dressed don’t just keep you warm. They help you stand out as well.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (3)

Tip #4: Cool tones or jewel tones are always a great choice

Jewel tones (ruby red, yellow topaz, sapphire blue, or emerald green) or cool tones (pink, red, blue/blue undertones) are always great choice colors for the winter months. The colors make it great to wear to a winter wedding. Looks great on photos too!

Tip #5: Avoid pastels

There might as well be an ordinance for this. When asked what to wear to a winter wedding, we normally stick to jewel tones. You won’t be violating the law with pastels. But best to reserve these bright colors for the warmer seasons.

Tip #6: Be picky about the floral prints you choose

If you must wear floral prints, be meticulous with the print. Avoid prints with tiny flowers or prints that are obviously for the spring and summer seasons.

Tip #7: Anything with velvet is a great choice

The lush color and texture of velvet is always a great choice. It’s the perfect outfit for a winter wedding. It goes well with the season and is perfect for keeping yourself warm.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (4)

Tip #8: Rock sparkles, sequins, and glitter

If you’ve been holding back with the sequins, glitter and rock sparkles all year… now’s the time to bring it on! Anything that shines and shimmers is exactly what want to wear to a winter wedding.

Tip #9: Strapless gowns + faux fur shawl = perfection

Go ahead and wear that flattering strapless gown! Pair it with a faux fur shawl for that winter wedding wonderland vibe!

Tip #10: Fun jumpsuits are a super unique and trendy winter outfit option!

Who says you have to wear a dress to a wedding? Shake things up with a fun jumpsuit. It makes a super unique and trendy winter outfit option. Plus, it's really easy to pull off!

Tip #11: Want a more subdued look with a pop of color? Get bright-colored shoes

If you opt for a neutral-colored outfit, tie it all together with bright red chunky heels or any other colorful shoe that will stand out. A subdued look with a pop of color makes a great winter statement!Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (5)

Tip #12: Find the perfect shawl to make any sleeveless look winter ready

If you’ve got your eyes (and your heart) set on a sleeveless dress or look, find the perfect shawl to make the outfit winter-ready.

Tip #13: You can’t go wrong with lace

Lace is a great option for a winter wedding! Bonus if you snag an outfit with lace sleeves!

Tip #14: Metallic material is so in

Metallic material is fun, trendy, and great for winter weddings!

Tip #15: Sheath silhouettes scream winter like no other

Sheath silhouette dresses are sexy and an easy choice for winter weddings!

Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (6)

Our Favorite Pieces to Wear to Winter Weddings

Here’s a little winter present… we’ve done the research for you. Read on to find some of our favorite steals from Target for winter weddings! What to wear to a winter wedding? Here’s our cheat list!

A Gorgeous Floral Print Dress

This gorgeous floral print dress takes you from the wedding ceremony to the after party. It’s a great outfit for holiday parties, as well. Layer with tights or leggings, and pair with comfy flats.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (7)

A Jewel-Toned Midi Dress

Paired with a clutch and heeled winter boots, this jewel-toned midi dress is a classic.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (8)

An Olive Mid-Sleeved Number

This vintage-inspired dress can get you from dinner to party to after-party with ease. Its modern, minimalist, and effortlessly polished. It's what we would wear to a winter wedding!Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (9)

A Short Sleeve Lace Dress

This dress combines comfort with naughty and nice. The nylon-spandex blend fabric is stretchable, while the lacy fabric allows your skin to peek through the sleeves. Pair it with heels and you got yourself a great outfit.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (10)

A Long-Sleeved Velvet Wrap Dress

A long-sleeved wrap dress flatters any figure. Simply accessorize with a chunky statement necklace and you’re all set.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (11)

A Black Maxi Dress

A floor length or ankle dress is comfort and style at its best. Formfitting at the top and loosely flowing at the bottom, it’s a great getup for morning winter weddings. To amp the formal factor, pair with a statement necklace and winter boots.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (12)

An Off-the-Shoulder Black Dress

This off-shoulder knit dress is a sweater and evening gown in one. Perfect for that winter wedding, night cap, or anniversary dinner.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (13)

A Balloon-Sleeved Faux Leather Midi

Anything leather adds a touch of subdued elegance. The relaxed style with a cut out V-neck and a side slit along the hem lends a modern touch. Its winter minimalist at its best. Oh! And it keeps you warm and toasty too!Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (14)

A Wrapped Metallic Dress

A wrap dress flatters most figures. But what makes this dress special is its flowy sleeves and midi length. Check out the belt on this one!Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (15)

A Crimson Lace Dress (with Sleeves!)

Now this is a jewel tone dress we really love! This A-line boatneck dress is a classic. And is made extra gorgeous by floral lace and its bright red color. Go for the demure look with nude pumps. Or go full winter with skinny boots.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (16)

A Floral Velvet Kimono

Floral patterns are usually reserved for the summer but this velvet kimono is perfect for a winter wedding. Wear over a slip dress or pair with skinny pants.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (17)

Faux Fur Neckerchief

If you layering isn’t your thing, keep warm with a stylish scarf. This neckerchief provides that much needed coverage on the neck and chest. Plus, it’s a fashion statement that pairs well with almost any outfit.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (18)

Faux Fur Shawl

This faux fur shawl is 50s glam! Think old school Hollywood! This fur shawl wraps around your shoulder and works best with a sleeveless jumpsuit or a fabulous co*cktail dress.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (19)

Maroon Jumpsuit

This sleeveless maroon jumpsuit offers a variety of styling options. Pair with a blazer or neckerchief. For that all out glam, pair with a fur shawl and embellished footwear. (convert this glam piece for the summer with wedge sandals and a denim jacket).Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (20)

Black Midi Jumpsuit

Another option that you could pair with a blazer, neckerchief, or fur shawl is this black midi jumpsuit. The V-neckline works perfectly with a statement necklace. Whip out the strappy glitter heels for the glam after party look.Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (21)CONCLUSIONWhat to wear to a winter wedding? A lot! Who says you can’t go for stunningly gorgeous during the chilly season?Got some ideas to get you glammed up for a winter wedding? We’d love to hear from you! Comment on the section below!

Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding (2024)

FAQs

Wedding Guest’s Guide on What to Wear to a Winter Wedding? ›

Accordingly, if you're a wedding guest at a winter wedding, you need to follow a certain dress code. Most men wear a tuxedo or full suit (jacket and dress pants) in darker colors, such as black, navy blue, and brown, whereas ladies don maxi dresses made of velvet or other opulent fabrics.

What should a guest wear 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 not to wear to a winter wedding? ›

Choose your color wisely

But, I would also recommend staying away from anything that could be construed as white. This includes very light pastels and even white dresses with floral prints. Some argue that you should not wear black to a wedding.

How can I look stylish in winter wedding? ›

Jewel Tones And Rich Hues:

Embrace the winter colour palette with jewel tones and rich, deep hues. Think emerald greens, royal blues and luxurious burgundies. Not only do these colours exude warmth, but they also perfectly complement the cosy ambiance of winter weddings.

Can a guest wear black to a winter wedding? ›

"I have beautiful brides wearing black wedding dresses," said Anastasia Stevenson, a destination wedding planner with Coastal Creative Weddings in Tybee Island, GA. "It is perfectly acceptable and chic to wear black to evening, black tie, and winter weddings."

Can I wear open-toed shoes to 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!

Can you wear bare legs to a winter wedding? ›

It should LOOK like you're wearing stockings. So if your legs are toned, tight and tan, sure go barelegged. Of course, you're still going to want to use a nice tinted moisturizer or leg makeup just to make sure everything is nice and even.

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

Just because you've chosen to be a winter bride doesn't mean you have to wear a long-sleeved wedding dress. Some brides prefer a sleeveless look to showcase their best features as they walk down the aisle. Others might have indoor ceremonies with effective heating systems planned.

What color not to wear to a wedding? ›

Leave all white, ivory, and champagne-hued shades alone, unless the invitation specifically designates an all-white dress code. "White and ivory are such a stark, prominent color that when you are the only one, as the bride, wearing it, all eyes are on you," says Avrumson.

Can you wear red to a winter wedding? ›

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 a light blue dress to a winter wedding? ›

Baby blue, dusty rose, and champagne are often the obvious color choices for weddings. However, the winter could use a change. Go for pine green, sapphire blue, black, burgundy, deep orange, or even mustard yellow. Regardless of the material, the dress's cut, or accessory's style, the color will scream 'winter.

Can I wear boots to a winter wedding? ›

Boots look great with both a heel or no heel, and if you really want to bring the wow factor, opt for a pair of suede over the knee boots, which will also do wonders for keeping your legs warm. Winter weddings are a great chance for you to show off your style.

What color is best for winter weddings? ›

The colors we can choose for winter weddings are ever-expanding, from the classical festive favorites to variations on copper, metallics, pinks, frosted pastels, greys, browns,etc. If you're saying “I do”s in winter, read on for some in-vogue color combs to really wow your…

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.

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.

What is the dress code for a guest at a wedding? ›

1) Do Consider the Wedding Dress Code

Black Tie: floor length gowns, black ties, tuxedos. Formal: floor length gowns, tuxedos optional, black suits acceptable. Semi-Formal: below the knee dresses, dress shirts, slacks. Casual: sundresses, collared shirts, khakis.

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