What Should Guests Wear to a Winter Wedding

If you’re invited to a winter wedding, such an event is all about being stylish, while braving the cold weather.

Of course, first and foremost, you’ll need to follow the dress-code and venue. You can certainly wear a dress with long sleeves to keep the chill away, but wearing an off the shoulder or sleeveless dress with a cozy shawl is also appropriate. If you opt for a silky blouse and dress slacks, you can pop on a tweed jacket in a color that complements your outfit.

Layering is key this time of year, and for more inspiration, check out perfect looks for attending a bridal shower to discover stylish outfit ideas.

What to wear to winter wedding guests

Wintertime is a season of celebration. Carry the festive vibe into your wedding guest dress attire by wearing holiday-inspired colors or an ensemble that sparkles. Emerald green and shades of red reflect the magic of Christmas. Glitzy outfits and accessories are reminiscent of New Year’s Eve; when a couple ties the knot on this holiday, or on any date in January, it’s a double-celebration, a night to start anew.

Generally speaking, the majority of winter weddings tend to be more formal, as they often take place in places like banquet halls and country clubs.

While you’re on the hunt for a winter dress to impress, let the wise words of fashion icon Coco Chanel inspire you: “Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably, and they remember the woman.”

Whether you’re tall and lean, have a petite frame, or are plus-size, follow our suggestions to help you nail down a look that’s perfect for a winter celebration. To quote Donna Karan: “Age and size are only numbers. It’s the attitude you bring to clothes that makes the difference.”

Black Tie Wedding Guest Attire

Formal Outfit Suggestions: A full-length velvet gown with a high neckline and long bell sleeves is a timeless silhouette. You can even hide a pair of fleece tights underneath for an added layer of warmth. (Trust us, no one will know!). Black, jewel tones like emerald green and sapphire blue, and even metallics, are appropriate colors for formal winter gowns. A beaded clutch, black sling-back or stiletto heels, and long silk gloves will elevate your look even more.

Another great choice for a formal wedding is a satin slip dress in navy or cherry red, paired with a black or gray faux fur stole. Accessorize with a long faux pearl necklace, coordinating drop earrings, and a black silk pouch. Peep-toe heels are a perfect addition to this style.

An off-one shoulder floor-length gown is another elegant silhouette that will make a dramatic statement at a black-tie celebration. Dare to bare a little skin, and you’ll look simply ravishing. A silky fabric will allow an off-one shoulder gown to skim your curves, and will flatter your figure. To quote Hubert de Givenchy, “The dress must follow the body of the woman, not the body following the shape of the dress.”

If dresses aren’t your thing, black slacks with a satin blouse and velvet jacket will match the occasion. We like a black velvet jacket and burgundy tie neck blouse, or a jewel toned jacket and ivory blouse. A necklace isn’t necessary with a tie neck, as the bow falls just below your neck. Statement earrings and a sparkling gold clutch will jazz up this ensemble.

Formal Hairstyles: Whether you plan to treat yourself to a trip to the salon, or style your hair at home, express yourself and make a chic statement with either an updo or flowing tresses. Twist your hair into a bun with bobby pins with pearl accents, and be sure to leave a few lightly curled strands loose to frame your face. If you prefer to keep your hair down, use a flat-iron to rock a straight and sleek look with a middle part. Finish with a shine spray.

Semi-Formal Wedding Guest Attire

Semi-formal Outfit Suggestions: A midi dress that falls somewhere between dressy and casual, but just a tad fancier, is the look to aim for when attending a semi-formal wedding.

While you may think pink is a no-go for winter weddings, shades of pink are acceptable, including fuchsia or magenta. We love a chiffon or silk midi dress with an open-back in a richer shade of pink. Add an ivory clutch, nude heels, and delicate gold hoop earrings, and you’ll be sure to turn some heads.

Or, go for shades of blue, including deep midnight and light icy tones, embellished with pointy toe heels and a metallic clutch.

Semi-Formal Hairstyles: A sleek midi ponytail will expose your décolleté, adding elegance at a semi-formal wedding. Did we mention that updos will keep you cooler if you plan to hit the dance floor? If you’d rather let your hair “go with the flow,” get out that curling iron when you’re primping and create loose curls.

Cocktail Wedding Guest Attire

Cocktail Outfit Suggestions: Nothing says cocktail style more than a midi fit and flare dress. Note the words of American journalist Andre’ Leon Tally, “The zenith of elegance in any woman’s wardrobe is the little black dress, the power of which suggests dash and refinement.” We love the way a little black fit and flare hugs the bodice and flares out above the waist. A strapless chiffon dress with a boat neckline is a timeless look. To keep the chill at bay, wear with a velvet bolero or cape. Pop on a faux pearl choker and coordinating earrings, kitten heels, and a sequined clutch to complete your look.

A midi length frock made of brocade in a muted floral print is another suitable option. Accessorize with sling back heels, simple, understated jewelry (busy jewelry will clash with patterned dresses), and a black or color-coordinating pleated clutch.

A metallic or sequined cocktail dress will certainly distinguish you as the belle of the ball. Sparkly looks are festive, and will do double duty during the winter; why not don that shimmering number on New Year’s Eve, as well?

Cocktail Hairstyles: For a cocktail event, a classic style is a twist into an Audrey Hepburn-inspired chignon, or a low ponytail. You can also style those locks to flip out at the ends (think 1960s cocktail engagements). You’ll need to blow dry with a large round brush and use plenty of hairspray to keep this style intact.

Casual Wedding Guest Attire

Casual Outfit Suggestions: And now, for the most relaxed wedding venue, think knits, sweater dresses, slacks paired with turtlenecks, and jumpsuits.

For casual winter weddings, black or gray slacks paired with a turtleneck sweater in a jewel tone like topaz, ruby red, or emerald green will fit the bill. Or, wear black bottoms with an earthy toned top such as beige or a muted green.

A sweater dress will keep you cozy, comfortable, and warm. A camel -colored dress with a simple gold chain, gold stud earrings, and low heels will look classic and polished. If you want to add a touch of seasonal pizazz, wear a pair of sparkly tights.

Jumpsuits are having a moment. Wear a navy or black jumpsuit that’s cinched at the waist to accentuate or give the illusion of curves. And of course, there are many other silhouettes to choose from. Browse online boutiques or a “store with a door” to explore the options. Add a pair of wedges or flats, a satchel bag, and a pendant or multi-strand necklace.

Casual Hairstyles: A loose braid adorned with a ribbon at the nape of your neck will match the casual vibe. Alternately, tie the ribbon around the bottom of the braid. A tousled style is fun and carefree; create loose curls, and scrunch your hair in sections using a texturizing spray to achieve this look. A half-up, half-down ‘do is another great choice.

Conclusion

Refer to our wedding guest attire checklist, while keeping your own personal style in mind, and you’ll be sure to make a lasting impression at a winter wedding. When you make your grand entrance at such a gala, hold your head up high as you arrive at the ceremony, or stroll across the dance floor. Keep the famous words of an ‘Unknown source’ in mind: “Confidence is the sexiest thing a woman can wear.”