There’s so much to love about a winter wedding, from the festive atmosphere to the richly coloured outfits and heart-warming food. Think glamorous but cosy, with Christmas-worthy decorations and long, dark nights that make it easier to get everyone on the dancefloor early.
That said, there’s more to think about when it comes to what to wear for a winter wedding. With the cold weather, you’ll be wondering about things like sleeve length, fabric choice, and extra layers. Plus, with the majority of weddings happening between spring and autumn, you’re less likely to have a pre-worn guest dress to hand. Worry not, because in this blog post, we’ve got you covered with our pick of winter wedding guest dresses, as well as tips and tricks for cold weather wedding dressing.
Consider the Venue and Theme
First things first, let’s consider the venue and theme of the wedding. If it’s an indoor affair in an elegant ballroom, you may opt for something different than if it’s a rustic barn wedding or a romantic garden ceremony.For indoor venues, think about classic and formal attire. You can go for long dresses or chic cocktail dresses in rich winter colours.
But if you’re attending an outdoor wedding, say “I do” to layers. A stylish winter coat or a shawl will keep you cosy while looking fantastic. And don’t forget comfortable shoes for uneven terrain.
Winter Wedding Outfit Ideas
First and foremost, staying warm is essential, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Embrace winter fabrics like velvet, silk, or wool. These materials not only look great but also provide insulation against the cold.
What Dresses To Wear To A Winter Wedding
Long-Sleeved Dresses
These not only add warmth but also give a sophisticated look. Look for dresses with lace or sheer sleeves for an elegant touch.
Velvet Dresses
Velvet is the perfect winter fabric. It’s soft, luxurious-looking and keeps you warm. You can go for a velvet gown or a knee-length velvet dress.
A-Line Dresses
A-line dresses are universally flattering and work well for winter weddings. They create a graceful silhouette and can always be paired with tights if it’s extra cold!
Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses are versatile, flattering and can be dressed up for a wedding. They offer a comfy fit and can be layered with a coat or shawl.
Sequinned or Metallic Dresses
Sparkly dresses can add a touch of glamour to a winter wedding. Choose silver, gold, or jewel-toned sequins for a festive look.
Dark, Rich Colours
Deep and rich colours like burgundy, emerald green, navy blue, or plum are perfect for the season. They exude warmth and elegance.
Full-Length Dresses
If it’s a formal winter wedding, a full-length gown with a little train can be a stunning choice. It’s not only stylish but also keeps you warm.
Faux Fur Accents
Consider dresses with fur or faux fur accents on the sleeves, collar, or hemline. This adds a cosy, wintry vibe.
Accessories and Outerwear
Accessories are the unsung heroes of winter wedding outfits. Think about adding a cosy cashmere shawl or scarf to your outfit for extra texture, warmth and flair.As for outerwear, choose a complementary coat or wrap, based on the colour of your dress. For women, a faux fur stole or a tailored wool coat would be good options.
What Shoes To Wear To A Winter Wedding?
Winter weddings can be chilly, so it’s crucial to choose the right footwear. We recommend opting for closed-toe shoes to keep your feet toasty. If you prefer traditional heels, closed-toe pumps or block heels in darker, wintery colours like deep burgundy or navy can work well. Just be sure to check the weather forecast, as you might need to protect your shoes from rain or snow.
You might not automatically think of boots for a wedding, but a pair of heeled ankle boots in leather or suede can be a great choice, and will give you a bit of insulation too.
Don’t forget to consider the venue too. If it’s an indoor wedding, you’ll have more flexibility with your shoe choice. But if part of the celebration is outdoors, make sure your shoes can handle the potentially wet or slippery ground.
Final Note On Winter Wedding Dressing
Our final words of advice on winter wedding dressing? First and foremost, have fun with it! In the world of weddings, winter ceremonies aren’t the regular choice, so use your invite as an opportunity to play with colours, fabrics and textures. Think lace, velvet, feather trim or sequin details.
Choose something that you feel genuinely confident and comfortable in. You’ll be wearing your outfit for most of the day and evening, and you’ll need to be able to eat, drink and dance in it.
Finally, remember to consider the weather forecast, venue and theme (if in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the dress code), choose the right fabrics, layer wisely, and accessorise with winter temperatures in mind.
