What to wear to a winter wedding: The essential guest dressing guide for women
Don’t let the cold tamp down your style with these chic winter weddings looks ideal for any weather
All products are chosen independently by our editors. Luxury London may earn commission on items purchased.
Weddings don’t stop in winter. Quite the contrary. The crisp, snowy season brings more romantic, truly magical occasions for brides, grooms and their parties to enjoy. But with this comes the conundrum of outfit choices. Dragging yourself out of a warm bed is difficult enough in the colder months, but combine that with the thought of spending all day in a draughty church or echoey ballroom while wearing a slinky cocktail dress and the chills literally take over. So what to wear to a winter wedding? Fret not; with our edit of chic cold weather-ready pieces you can still cherish those romantic ‘I dos’ while looking your best.
Whether you’re looking for the best wedding guest dresses, a coat worthy of the occasion, or comfortable separates that will also look great at your work Christmas party, our curated edit will make sure your style doesn’t get low just because the temperature is.
Velvet dresses
For a stunning winter look, you really can’t go wrong with velvet. Warm and sensual, this heavier fabric makes for great winter wedding guest dresses as the lustrous fabric drapes elegantly around the body. A classic midi option, like Khaite’s sculptural off-shoulder sophisticated silhouette, is perfect for a black-tie reception. Etro’s paisley printed maxi, meanwhile, is made for rustic country house weddings.
If you prefer to stand out from the crowd (while not overshadowing the bride, of course) opt for the strikingingly printed La Double J Swing dress. You can also be smart about showing some skin by opting for Maygel Coronel’s sleek blue dress – its open-back detailing is sexy without being over the top.
Knit dresses
Knitted dresses are a safe bet for those who are perennially cold. Forgo bulky coats and wrap yourself in a toasty cashmere or wool knit so you can dance the night away with ease. To add a dramatic flair to your twirls, go with Rotate's floor-length ribbed-knit dress finished with a back cut-out and mermaid-style flared hem.
Lean into a pastel palette with AJE's baby blue-hued metallic-effect frock, complete with a playful fringed hem, or Carolina Herrera's pretty pink midi, crafted from a wool-blend crepe fabrication with an off-the-shoulder look. Alternatively, blend into the festivities with Rabanne's long-sleeved wool maxi dress embellished with gold studs for a glitzy touch.
Luxe separates
Who said you have to limit yourself to dresses for a stunning wedding guest look? Matching separates can elevate your style and make you stand out from the gown-wearing masses. Take a page from the men’s occasionwear playbook and try a suit: Veronica Beard's luscious black Issel jacket and Alex trousers pair beautifully together, both crafted from textured-velvet and guaranteed to draw compliments. The jacket's self-tie sash will cinch you in at the waist for a flattering, feminine finish.
For a more traditionally feminine approach, try a skirt suit, like Dolce & Gabbana's herringbone wool-blend iteration in a mélange of tonal grey and white threads. The double-breasted blazer is cut to a slightly loose fit, while the midi skirt is floaty and oozes vintage sophistication. Finish the look with a hat for extra style points. Alternatively, add a bright pop of colour with Gabriela Hearst's vibrant cobalt blue silky satin power suit ensemble.
Veronica Beard Issel velvet blazer
Veronica Beard Alex high-rise velvet wide-leg pants
DOLCE&GABBANA Double-breasted herringbone wool-blend blazer
DOLCE&GABBANA Wool-blend midi skirt
GABRIELA HEARST Aleah silk-satin blazer
GABRIELA HEARST Norman belted silk-satin straight-leg pants
Cosy layers
With wardrobes brimming with trench coats and leather jackets, who needs yet another coat? But hear us out. Your trusty black wool coat might be warm, but it’ll just dull the shine of your impeccable winter wedding guest outfit. Investing in a beautiful evening coat will ensure you look your best even when donning endless layers.
Loro Piana’s cape-effect coat is a timeless (cosy) classic while Yves Salomon’s off-white shearling coat is a lush option worth the investment. Wrap Gabriela Hearst’s oversized cashmere scarf over a dress for an understated look or go for a classic black style with Rixo's longline Astraea coat in chic suede (one for the everyday too).
Sleek boots
Swap out strappy sandals for sleek boots to keep feet toasty even during the longest vows. Thankfully, this season’s new wave of boots is brimming with sleek high-heeled options perfect for a winter wedding. Choose from classics like Saint Laurent's black leather ankle boots or velvety suede chocolate brown knee-high boots.
Pair a simple monotone dress with Spanish brand Mafalda's gorgeous silver ankle boots that are bound to make a statement this winter and beyond. Or put your most fashionable foot forward in Maison Margiela’s iconic split-toe Tabi boots.
Read more: Perfect party dresses for the festive season
