Best 25 Winter Wedding Guest Dresses
Are you searching for what to wear to a winter wedding? Check out some of our favorite winter wedding guest dresses.
Winter weddings can be so romantic and enchanting but also present challenges when it comes to deciding what to wear to a winter wedding. However, there are so many amazing winter wedding guest dresses that embrace the winter vibe while also balancing style and warmth.
As always, before you decide what to wear, make sure to check the invitation or wedding website for the dress code. Shopping for winter wedding guest dresses for black tie weddings will be different than shopping for a winter wedding guest outfit for dressy casual winter weddings. To make it simpler, we rounded up some inspirational outfit ideas for you to check out. If you click on an image, it will take you directly to the site where you can purchase the item! (You’re welcome!) Keep reading for more winter wedding tips, some of our favorite winter staples, and the best winter wedding guest dresses.
What to Wear to a Winter Wedding
The best thing to do when it comes to creating a winter wedding guest outfit is to find a way to stay warm without sacrificing style in the cold weather. This means finding the perfect accessories and outerwear. You can layer jackets, pashmina, and shrugs with your cocktail or formal attire and still look great. If you are going with a shorter hem, consider booties, tall boots, or closed-toe pumps to keep your feet warm and toasty. Think about fabrics and textures that are breathable but offer warmth. Don’t forget that shapewear can also double as another layer of protection against the elements as well.
Consider the Weather
First of all, you’ll want to consider the weather. If you’re in an area that gets very cold during the winter, you’ll want to dress for warmth. Make sure you wear something that will keep you comfortable without sacrificing style. If you’re attending a winter wedding in a colder climate, the wedding will likely take place indoors. Chances are you won’t have to bundle up all night! In some areas, you might need a warm winter coat, but in others, you could probably get away with a sweater or shawl. Be sure to consider the climate when deciding what to wear to a winter wedding.
Consider the Event Formality
When deciding what to wear to a winter wedding, you’ll also want to consider the formality of the event. For a black-tie wedding, you could easily wear a floor-length dress with long sleeves, which would give you the benefit of extra coverage and warmth. If the wedding is more of a laid-back or casual atmosphere, you would look overdressed in something so formal.
Colors to Wear
Another thing to consider when choosing what to wear to a winter wedding is the color palette. Often, couples will incorporate their color scheme into their wedding invitations so be sure to look closely at it for any clues as to what the dress code might be as well as any possible color palette. Popular colors to wear to a winter wedding are deep or darker colors like navy, hunter green, blacks, deep browns, maroons, etc.
For a more formal wedding, other good options for colors to wear to a winter wedding are metallics like silvers, golds, and coppers. A little sparkle never hurt anyone and would be appropriate for a formal occasion, especially during a festive time like Christmas or New Year’s!
Fabrics to Wear
Your fabric choice will likely have a bit to do with the formality of the event as well. Options such as lace, satin, or even velvet are popular for winter weddings, especially if the temperature is quite cold.
Velvet Wedding Guest Dresses
If you haven’t noticed already, here at the B$B, we are suckers for a good staple velvet dress. This fabric is the perfect option for a variety of seasons because of texture. It is lightweight without being heavy like some thicker fabrics (looking at you wool) but also is elegant and provides lots of warmth. Velvet is a great option for fall weddings but definitely is a top pick for dresses to wear to a winter wedding. So, if you’re looking for December wedding guest dresses, or a January wedding guest dress, or February wedding guest dress then consider velvet as a top wedding guest dress choice.
Sheath Strapless Velvet Floor-Length Dress
Azazie • $99
You can be stylish and comfortable in this velvet mermaid dress. The strapless bodice has boning placed for both fit and style, with delicate pleating that opens up to a leg slit.
Velvet Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress
Lulus • $84
An evening of magic awaits you in the Lulus I’m Enchanted Navy Blue Velvet Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress! This gorgeous stretch velvet maxi has a folded-over off-the-shoulder neckline (with hidden no-slip strips) that continues into short sleeves.
Meghan Velvet Wrap Maxi Dress
Baltic Born • $88
You’ll stay warm and toasty in this velvet wrap maxi dress from Baltic Born. This dress comes in a variety of colors and would make a great choice for wedding attire in winter.
Backless Velvet Maxi Dress
Looking for formal winter wedding guest dresses? Consider this high-neck velvet maxi dress. We love the backless drama of this dress, which really takes the formality up a notch. Pair with sparkly heels and a great bracelet!
AW Taiga Dress
AW Bridal • $109.99
The AW Taiga Dress is the best dress for the winter wedding guest who embraces simplicity and classy style as an all-in-one package. It is designed with high-quality, soft, and stretchy velvet fabric with a sweetheart neckline and off-the-shoulder straps.
One Shoulder Gown With Beaded Neckline
Adrianna Papell • $219
We love a one-shoulder neckline and this one-shoulder dress is the perfect gown to wear to any winter wedding. It will provide warmth and comfort for any guest.
Plum Purple Velvet Wrap Maxi Dress
Lulus • $126
We love this plum-purple velvet gown with a plunging neckline. The long sleeves and cozy velvet fabric is perfect for black tie weddings or even an outdoor ceremony.
Winter Party Dresses
Let’s face it, the best holidays are during the winter months. We’re talking about Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. So, if you are looking for a stylish and festive winter wedding guest outfit why not purchase a dress that you can wear again for holiday parties or even rock as a Christmas wedding guest dress if you have a special holiday wedding. Cold weather winter wedding outfits don’t have to be boring or dull because of the cold weather. We’ve found some great party attire that you can wear to holiday celebrations or weddings!
Bronze Pleated Maxi Dress
Petal and Pup • $99
This bronze pleated frock rocks the cutout trend, perfectly showcasing your waist. And when you twirl on the dance floor, this fabric will sparkle like a New Year’s disco ball.
Long-Sleeve V-Neck Wrap Maxi Dress
Anthropologie • $230
This v-neck wrap maxi dress is a great look for holiday parties, winter weather, or a winter wedding. The muted shades still look great because of the additional details of the ruffle on the long sleeves and the unique slit and hem.
Short Sleeve Pleated Dress
Showpo • $89.95
Looking for jewel tones and pleats? Slip on this Della Maxi Dress, an effortlessly chic and airy party number with glossy pleats all over. Also featuring a plunging neckline, slit at the back, and short sleeves, it’s super light on and a total cinch to style. Wear it to your next winter wedding with classy pointed-toe heels!
Dark Emerald Sparkly Mini Dress
Azazie • $39
We love this mini dress with balloon sleeves. You’ll sparkle and shine. Perfect for a New Year’s Eve Wedding guest dress!
Satin Sleeveless Mock Neck Maxi Dress
Lulus • $88
Feel like the Queen that you are in the Lulus Classic Elegance Wine Satin Sleeveless Mock Neck Maxi Dress! Luxe woven satin shapes this gorgeous dress that has a mock neckline and a sleeveless bodice with gathered fabric detailing.
Long Sleeve Cocktail Dress
Looking for a long-sleeved dress for a winter wedding guest that isn’t boring? Pair this mini wrap tie waist dress with some gorgeous heels or booties for the perfect winter wedding guest outfit.
Jodie Dress
ShowMeYourMumu • $198
Chic and sophisticated in the Jodie Dress. An elegant asymmetrical silhouette crafted in luxe satin with a draped neckline and sultry side slit. Styled with dainty heels and minimal jewelry make this one of the perfect winter wedding outfits for female guests.
Long Sleeve Dress for Winter Wedding Guest
There is something so sophisticated and sexy but also practical about a long-sleeved dress. Whether the dress is long, midi length, or a mini, it’s suitable for different wedding settings. Long sleeves are perfect for cold weather wedding guest dresses because obviously the warmth, but they also look stunning in a room full of strapless, spaghetti strap, or short sleeve cocktail dresses. Here are some of our favorite long-sleeved wedding guest dresses for winter.
Satin Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
Lulus • $119
You’ll radiate sophistication and style with minimal effort thanks to the Lulus Lovely Essence Emerald Green Satin Long Sleeve Maxi Dress! Sleek woven satin creates a lightly gathered bodice, a plunging V-neckline, and long sleeves (with subtle gathering at the shoulders).
Sheath Bow Mesh Floor-Length Dress
Azazie • $99
Denali is the perfect winter wedding guest style. This dress is cut from mesh in an enchanting fit and flare silhouette. She is open-backed with a double-layered design using a camisole and long blouson sleeve overlay.
Kai Maxi Dress
REVOLVE • $270
This dress gives 70s glam vibes with its wide satin waist, v-neck, blouson sleeves and side slit. We love the unexpected avocado shade.
Long Sleeve Sweater Dress
Nordstrom • $458
This eye-catching sweater dress boasts a stunning yarn-dyed pattern and a flowy silhouette that goes anywhere with ease.
Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Petal and Pup • $79
This winter wedding season, stay stylish and comfortable with this knit-style midi dress. With a round neckline, long flare sleeves with scalloped cuffs, and stretch ribbed knit construction for a bodycon fit, you can look chic at any fall or winter winter.
Sheath Long Sleeve Stretch Satin Floor-Length Dress
Azazie • $119
This dress has such a different take on rocking long sleeves. The off-shoulder neckline has a pleated bodice that is framed with long drape sleeves. The column skirt has pretty pleats that drape over a leg slit.
Mock Neck Long Sleeve Satin Cocktail Dress
Not only does this dress boast long sleeves but also a mock neck. It’s full coverage and elegant but also sexy with a high side slit and ruched waist. Available in 8 colors
Winter Wedding Guest Outfits
You don’t have to stick to dresses when it comes to winter wedding guest outfits. No, you can definitely wear a jumpsuit, romper, or two-piece set. You also can curate complete winter wedding guest outfits by layering seasonal accessories like boots, jackets, and even outerwear like scarves and gloves.
One Shoulder Jumpsuit
Petal and Pup • $69
This wide-leg jumpsuit with a one-sleeve design and high neckline looks like a put-together two-piece suit when it’s really an elegant evening wear jumpsuit.
One-Shoulder Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Nordstrom • $595
A deliciously draped jumpsuit is set off one shoulder and cut from glossy satin that adds to its graceful impression.
Two Piece Sweater Set
Two-piece sets are all the rage among influencers these days, and this one is no exception. The crop sweater and matching ribbed skirt are such a great option for a dressy winter wedding outfit.
Gold Pleated Long Sleeve Backless Romper
Lulus • $69
Manners are fine and all, but the Lulus Plisse and Thank You Gold Pleated Long Sleeve Backless Romper sure is something special! This shiny micro-pleated romper has a wide V-neckline, a set-in waist, and long sleeves with elastic cuffs.
Shoes for a Winter Wedding Guest
As with any wedding guest shoe, you’ll want to find one that is stylish and comfortable and also suitable for different venues and weather conditions. If the wedding is going to be held outside, even in milder temperature regions, you’ll want to opt for a closed-toe option to keep your feet toasty. If you are going to be indoors and dancing the night away, make sure you find shoes that are comfortable. The nice thing about shoes for a winter wedding guest is you can play with the color options and use them as an excuse to grab a fun holiday shade you’ve been eyeing.
Betsey Johnson Sofya Pump
DSW • $129.99
Whimsical and artsy, the Sofya pump from Betsey Johnson can keep you in the fashion game. The pointed-toe pump displays a fishnet upper with rhinestone floral accents that can make you ramp-worthy any day.
Sam Edelman Velvet Block Heels
Zappos • $130
Velvet dress, why not velvet shoes? These block heels are a great fabric choice and color for any holiday or winter wedding.
Bow Knot Heeled Sandals
We can find you on the dance floor with these bow knot sandals. The delicate ankle strap and chunky heels are the perfect pair for any winter wedding guest dress.
Velvet Platform Ankle Strap Pumps
Lulus • $95
The Coconuts by Matisse Misha Burgundy Velvet Platform Ankle Strap Pumps are a luxurious twist on the classic Mary Jane design and we are totally here for it! These stunning heels are composed of plush velvet that shapes a squared-toe upper (atop a 0.75″ toe platform) and a low-cut collar.
Slingback Heels with Asymmetrical Bow
Bella Belle Shoes • $345
These regal blue slingback heels feature asymmetrical bow detailing and a D’Orsay cut smooth silhouette. The pointed toe is complete with a knotted silk bow at a diagonal. The hue of these lustrous royal blue slingback heels symbolizes peace and adds polish to these clean-cut pointed-toe pumps with bow detailing.
Faux Suede Women’s Ruffle Block Heel Ankle Boots
Yes, booties can be a great option for shoes for a winter wedding guest. These ruffle block heel ankle boots are the perfect way to dress up boots for a special occasion. Available in 11 colors.
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Is it OK to wear black to a winter wedding?
This question comes up no matter what season, and the answer is always the same. Wearing black to a wedding whatever the season, is totally acceptable. However, it should be noted that if the couple has cultural or religious reasons where black is taboo, then you should totally honor their beliefs and avoid the color. Otherwise, black is a great color for winter wedding guest dresses. There are so many different styles, textures, and shades of black that work well for formal winter wedding guest dresses especially, but also dressy casual and cocktail options. Never underestimate the power of the little black dress.
What winter wedding guest dresses would you choose for your big day?
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