What to Wear to a Winter Wedding: A Guide for Wedding Guests
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Sarah LafargeChoose elegant yet warm winter wedding outfits
From November onwards, mornings and evenings can feel dramatically cooler than during the day, so you’ll need an elegant wedding guest outfit that will also keep you warm for the duration of the celebrations.
It’s a wise idea to think about your outfit's fabric when planning what to wear to a winter wedding. Now is not the time for light chiffons and lace. Wool, cashmere and cotton are your go-tos here: naturally breathable fibres that will help keep you warm without overheating. Look for wedding guest dresses, skirts and trouser suits in wool blends or heavier fabrics such as velvet. We recommend this this striking floral dress by LK Bennett that's lined for added warmth.
Colours to wear to a winter wedding
For a fail-safe winter wedding outfit ideas, choose rich, deep hues like aubergine, sapphire, or emerald that complement the aesthetic of the winter months. We love the sleek sophistication of this knitted dress by Ted Baker, which ticks the style boxes while also making sure you won’t get chilly in a draughty venue.
Fancy a more neutral look? Consider shades such as charcoal or camel, or even opt for a sleek black dress – that’s right, you can wear black to a wedding, especially in winter. In fact, a winter wedding is the perfect opportunity for showcasing a elevated, fashion-forward outfit with statement accessories.
Dresses to wear to winter weddings
The perfect dress to wear to a winter wedding combines style and warmth. Look for higher necklines and longer sleeves that'll give you more coverage. Choose a dress that can be teamed with smart boots for added warmth, this floral-patterned dress by Monsoon is ideal. Add a Heatgen thermal vest underneath to help regulate your temperature throughout the day.
If you're going to a wedding in a church or an older venue, be prepared for draughts and chills. You might have to wear a coat during the service, or at the very least a cardigan or wrap. We like this chic longline merino wool cardigan by Jaeger, which will suit most outfits. As the day progresses, you can remove layers as the venue warms up (or the dancing starts).
Winter wedding accessories
Published 1.15.2025
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