16 winter wedding guest outfit ideas you're going to absolutely love (2024)

FAQs

What do you wear to a winter wedding as a guest? ›

A winter wedding is usually more formal than a summer wedding. Therefore, the dress code may say “black-tie wedding” or “co*cktail wedding” rather than “casual winter wedding.” A formal winter wedding requires men to wear a tuxedo or a full suit. On the other hand, women should go for a gown or maxi dress.

My favorite dress types for women over 50 are fit and flare and A-line silhouettes. These two styles are flattering for so many body types. They have a defined waistline and are very forgiving as they take attention away from the midsection and camouflage wider hips and thighs.

Metallic tones such as gold, silver, and bronze, also work well for winter weddings. Pro tip from wedding planner, Karen Brown: "If you're attending a winter wedding, dress in warm colors like burgundy, brown, purple, gray, and green."

Whether you choose a traditional salwar suit or a contemporary pant-style one in shades like deep red, navy blue can make you look effortlessly elegant. Banarasi sarees and lehengas are timeless pieces that always stay in fashion. Their intricate weaving and royal look make them ideal for winter wedding outfit ideas.

Thicker fabrics, billowing sleeves and higher necklines will all balance out bare legs, and there are always good old tights should you need more layering.

When it comes to style for a winter wedding, you'll often see dark colors or jewel tones, crushed velvet dresses, and even some long-sleeve gowns.

Winter Wedding Guest Dresses For Women Over 60

For winter, guest outfits often include dark hues, rich fabrics, and long sleeves. An upscale evening winter wedding will require a formal outfit, while a casual look is acceptable for a less formal daytime event.

"Look for dressier styles with shawl collars, statement belts, and wide-leg pants to optimize a flattering shape, and consider soft prints that add interest but don't overpower," she says. "Try a three-quarter length sleeve that forces the eye to rest at the waist, which will further accentuate it."

Wear Something Dressy and Party-Like

Plus, when you look good, you feel good and everything is much more fun! Aim for something dressy and party-like, heck even a little glamorous. The easiest way know how formal you should dress to check the dress code on the wedding invitation.

Is it OK to wear black to a winter wedding? ›

"I have beautiful brides wearing black wedding dresses," said Anastasia Stevenson, a destination wedding planner with Coastal Creative Weddings in Tybee Island, GA. "It is perfectly acceptable and chic to wear black to evening, black tie, and winter weddings."

For a fun jacket to throw over your dress for fall or winter, try a faux fur jacket. There are so many options to choose from. You can go cropped, or long, or anything in-between. Faux fur feels a little nicer to wear to a wedding than just your everyday coat.

Mix neutrals for elegance – Neutral beige, gray, and black colors are vital in winter fashion. You can layer them in shades to create a refined and elegant look. For instance, a charcoal gray coat over a light gray sweater creates a subtle, stylish contrast.

Think cozy cashmere crewnecks that double as scarves on days when the weather tiptoes between warm one day and cold the next, oversize khaki blazers that add the perfect pop of color underneath any outstanding piece of outerwear, casual yet cool gray hoodies that have the model off-duty seal of approval, and a crisp ...

Long Coat + Turtleneck Sweater + Mini Skirt + Knee-High Boots. Layering up in the cold and looking fire? It's entirely doable. Pair a cozy sweater with a leather mini, then keep your bare legs protected from the elements with a long coat that meets tall boots!

"I have beautiful brides wearing black wedding dresses," said Anastasia Stevenson, a destination wedding planner with Coastal Creative Weddings in Tybee Island, GA. "It is perfectly acceptable and chic to wear black to evening, black tie, and winter weddings."

Since a winter wedding is in the winter when it's, well, cold out, you may want to choose a long sleeve dress. You could go short (I love this one and it's on sale) or a full length gown too. A midi length is also great. But long sleeves will keep you warm and ensure your dress is seasonally appropriate.

Those strappy, open toe heels may not be the best choice for a winter wedding so explore your options. Pointed, rounded and closed-toe footwear or some stylish boots will be your best bet. Whatever you choose, make sure they're comfortable, walking in heels in the snow can be a real challenge!

I have advised readers that while bare legs are fine even at the most formal events, hosiery also is perfectly acceptable as long as it's skin tone and sheer. I've just returned from a wedding where I wore my new bargain ($10!)