Christmas is the perfect time to get engaged for many couples, and for similar reasons, many more choose to say “I do” during winter too. The magic and romance of this colder season are undeniable, and winter weddings are truly beautiful as a result.
If you’ve been invited to attend a winter wedding this season, the go-to wedding guest outfit you relied upon for spring and summer just won’t cut it. As well as keeping out the chill, your winter wedding outfit has to be stylishly cool, so how can you achieve just that in time for that all-important winter wedding date?
Read on to discover the golden rules of dressing well for an upcoming winter wedding.
Do take note of the dress code
As with any wedding, taking note of the dress code that the happy couple has set is rule number one for any considerate wedding guest.
Whether you’re attending just for the reception or have the opportunity to spend the entire day celebrating their nuptials, you must abide by the dress code – the bride and groom’s wedding depends on it!
Thankfully, whatever the specified dress code, there are many stunning formal and casual winter wedding looks to choose from.
Don’t be tempted to fade into the background
As the season of sparkle, you don’t have to settle for a boring, forgettable winter wedding outfit, even as a guest, or risk upstaging the bride either!
We’ll let WeddingWire explain more about how to use the festive season (and a few well-chosen accessories) to your advantage:
“Winter provides a really underrated opportunity to sport some killer statement pieces, allowing you to play with long sleeves, length, materials, and bold metallic colours… There are numerous ways to inject some fun and character into a formal look without sacrificing the respectful presentation to the ceremony.”
Metallics are made for winter weddings. They’re great complements to the deeper, richer colours that are synonymous with the season – such as burgundy, navy, forest green and black – as well as a statement, glamourous look all on their own when used to embellish a maxi or co*cktail dress.
Do opt for a long-sleeved look
Whilst the bride and groom will have prepared a few cosy touches to keep wedding guests warm throughout their ceremony and reception, it won’t hurt to don a long-sleeved look for extra comfort.
A long-sleeved dress or jumpsuit is certain to keep the chills at bay, especially if you’re attending all day. Your choice of fabric can also make a huge difference to those comfort levels.
Choose thicker, natural fabrics (like wool and velvet) to ensure a breathable, cosy layer that protects you from the harsh winter weather. For male guests, selecting a suit in wool, velvet or tweed is a great choice, and it’ll look super stylish too.
If you have your heart set on a short-sleeved number – slip dresses are big news this season – accessorise with a chic cover-up. A shawl, cape or faux fur jacket is an ideal alternative to a bulkier coat.
Don’t go open toe with your footwear
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!
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FAQs
Choose thicker, natural fabrics (like wool and velvet) to ensure a breathable, cosy layer that protects you from the harsh winter weather. For male guests, selecting a suit in wool, velvet or tweed is a great choice, and it'll look super stylish too.
What to wear to a winter wedding as a guest? ›
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 are the colors for winter wedding guests? ›
Follow a deep, rich color palette.
Black and navy appropriate for winter weddings, but so are jewel tones, such as sapphire, ruby, garnet, emerald, citrine, or amethyst. Metallic tones such as gold, silver, and bronze, also work well for winter weddings.
Is it okay to wear open-toed shoes to a winter wedding? ›
Can you wear open-toed shoes to a winter wedding? While most of our picks above are closed toe, you can absolutely rock an open-toe style for a winter wedding—but keep in mind a few parameters. The overall style should still say winter (think, a velvet platform rather than a strappy flat sandal).
Are boots acceptable for a winter wedding? ›
Yes, you can wear boots to a winter wedding. Boots are a functional yet stylish option that guarantees you are ready for whatever the weather (and the wedding) has in store. Plus, they pair well with black tie formal attire and dressy jumpsuits or mini dresses.
What is winter formal attire for a wedding? ›
A winter wedding is usually more formal than a summer wedding. Therefore, the dress code may say “black-tie wedding” or “co*cktail wedding” rather than “casual winter wedding.” A formal winter wedding requires men to wear a tuxedo or a full suit. On the other hand, women should go for a gown or maxi dress.
Can you wear black to a winter wedding as a guest? ›
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.
How can I look stylish in winter wedding? ›
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 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.
Can you wear a floral dress to a winter wedding? ›
More muted floral designs are often overlooked when choosing what to wear to a winter wedding, but they make for a much more exciting look than the standard little black dress.
Don't go open toe with your footwear
Pointed, rounded and closed-toe footwear or some stylish boots will be your best bet.
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 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 not to wear to a winter wedding? ›
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.
What is winter wedding attire? ›
Consider charcoal or camel, or even opt for a sleek black dress – that's right, you can wear black to a wedding, especially in winter. In fact, a city wedding is the perfect opportunity for showcasing a chic, fashion-forward outfit with statement accessories.
Can you wear a short 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. But long sleeves will keep you warm and ensure your dress is seasonally appropriate.
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.
What to wear to a wedding as a guest female? ›
Women wedding guests should wear a full-length dress, be it a ballgown, a sheath or an A-line style. High heels are strongly recommended. Feel free to accessorize with opulent jewelry and even elbow-length white silk gloves.
