What should a guest wear to a winter wedding? Winter weddings can be a challenge to dress up for because cold weather doesn’t allow for much. We’d sure love to come all bundled up and cozy, but that's amongst the list of things NOT to do at a wedding as a guest. Before you RSVP regrets, we’d like you to know that there is a whole world of wonderful winter outfits that are perfect for the coldest of seasons… Read on to find out what to wear to a winter wedding!

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding: A Wedding Guest's Guide

Wedding catalogs are awash with pages and pages of wedding outfits fit for summer simply because most couples get hitched during the toastier months. What if we told you that it IS possible to find outfits you don’t need to cover with a heavy winter jacket … if you know where to look. Read on and steal our tips for what to wear to a winter wedding!

Tips on Picking Out What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

We’ve had our fair share of winter weddings… and tell you what, it’s never a toss-up between being warm and glamming up. Here are some of our greatest tips for what to wear to a winter wedding.

Tip #1: Yes, you can wear a dress!

Blue By Morilee Amy | Emma Stender Photography

Yes. You CAN wear a dress! Don't be afraid to add in layers, such as fleece lined tights or cute socks with boots. Any dress can easily blend into the season if you add in a few winter elements such as a winter frock (yay insulation!), a drape fur, or a cute vest.

Tip #2: Cool tones or jewel tones are always a great choice

Jewel tones (ruby red, yellow topaz, sapphire blue, or emerald green) or cool tones (pink, red, blue/blue undertones) are always great choice colors for the winter months. The colors make it great to wear to a winter wedding. Looks great on photos too!

Tip #3: Try To Avoid Pastels Or Summery Colors

Bordeaux Dresses | Lydia Jane Photography

There might as well be an ordinance for this. When asked what to wear to a winter wedding, we normally stick to jewel tones. You won’t be violating the law with pastels. But, it's best to reserve these bright colors for the warmer seasons.

Tip #4: If you choose to wear a dress, a longer length is always a good idea!

Should you go for a dress, consider a long one with slits or cutouts. You'll feel a lot more comfortable and warm in a look like that - plus, long dresses are so elegant! Not a huge fan of long dresses? Pair your short dress with thermal pantyhose or tights.

Tip #5: Long-sleeved dresses are totally trendy

When we’re asked what to wear to a winter wedding, our knee-jerk answer is always something warm. Long sleeved dresses are a no-brainer. And they don’t need to look boring! Cute long-sleeved dressed don’t just keep you warm. They help you stand out as well.

Tip #6: Be picky about the floral prints you choose

If you must wear floral prints, be meticulous with the print. Avoid prints with tiny flowers or prints that are obviously for the spring and summer seasons.

Tip #7: Anything with velvet is a great choice

Emerald Velvet Dresses | Kaleigh Turner

The lush color and texture of velvet is always a great choice. It’s the perfect outfit for a winter wedding. It goes well with the season and is perfect for keeping yourself warm. 

Tip #8: Rock sparkles, sequins, and glitter

If you’ve been holding back with the sequins, glitter and rock sparkles all year… now’s the time to bring it on! Anything that shines and shimmers is exactly what want to wear to a winter wedding.

Tip #9: Short sleeve dresses + faux fur shawl = perfection

Bordeaux Dresses | Tiffany Backmeier

Go ahead and wear that flattering strapless gown! Pair it with a faux fur shawl for that winter wedding wonderland vibe!

Tip #10: Fun jumpsuits are a super unique and trendy winter outfit option!

Who says you have to wear a dress to a wedding? Shake things up with a fun jumpsuit. It makes a super unique and trendy winter outfit option. Plus, it's really easy to pull off!

Tip #11: Think in layers!

Depending on the venue, there's a good chance that you'll find yourself getting warm once dinner and dancing start! (Especially if you wore heavy clothing.) Dress in a way where you can remove items easily ~ and still look like your outfit is put together! Cute coats, shawls, etc. are always a good move.

Tip #12: Satin is a gorgeous fabric for winter weddings

Black Satin Dresses | Asher Gardner

Especially if the wedding calls for a fancier dress code, you can't get much more elegant than with a satin dress! Not only are satin dresses classy and timeless, but they look extra beautiful in the winter.

Tip #13: Sheath silhouettes scream winter like no other

Sheath silhouette dresses are sexy and an easy choice for winter weddings!

Our Favorite Winter Wedding Guest Outfits & Dresses

Not sure where to start when looking for the perfect winter wedding outfit? No worries! We're here to help you get some inspiration for the cutest styles and looks for the winter wedding season. Below are just a few of our favorites!

1) Emerald Green Silk Midi Dress

A perfect style for layering (or entirely indoor winter weddings), this emerald green satin dress is breathtaking! A midi length is great for guests who want a more upscale look, but aren't sold on floor-length gowns.

2) Fitted Long Sleeve Velvet Dress For Wedding Guests

If you're looking for a fitted silhouette style, this wedding guest dress was made for you! It's such a classy look, and you'll stay warm while wearing it. What a perfect winter gown!

3) One Shoulder Long Sleeve Black Wedding Guest Dress

Absolutely gorgeous for a cocktail dress code, this little black dress is classic, but with modern elements.

4) Floor Length Velvet Wedding Guest Dress With Long Sleeves

A dress made for winter weddings, this gorgeous velvet number will make you feel like you're in a movie! It'll keep you warm and cozy, while making you look AMAZING. The a-line style of the skirt is flattering and flowy. Plus, it's available in a bunch of winter-inspired colors!

5) Long Sleeve Velvet Midi Dress in Olive Green

A stunning wrap velvet style, you'll look gorgeous in this Olive Green midi velvet dress! Not only is it a unique look, but it's perfectly functional for colder weddings.

6) Winter Wedding Guest Shawl to Stay Cozy

If you have a short sleeve or sleeveless outfit, this winter cover up is the perfect addition to your outfit! You'll still look fancy for the event, but you'll be SO cozy. Plus, you can easily take it off if you get warm.

Pick out your perfect winter wedding guest outfit!

Who says you can’t go for stunningly gorgeous dress during the chilly season? Do you have some ideas to get glammed up for a winter wedding? Comment your ideas below ~ we'd love to hear your thoughts!