Winter Wedding Guest Dresses: What to Wear to Cold-Weather Weddings [2024]

published on 10 November 2024
Photo by Alyssa DeGarde on Unsplash
Photo by Alyssa DeGarde on Unsplash

Looking for the perfect winter wedding guest dress? Let's get you dressed for those magical winter weddings! ❄️ From luxe velvets to sophisticated long sleeves, I'll help you nail that winter wedding guest look (without freezing or looking like you're headed to a holiday party).

Need a unique winter wedding guest dress? Check our vintage dress marketplace for one-of-a-kind pieces that'll stand out from the winter crowd!

Best Colors for Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

Winter weddings call for rich, sophisticated colors. Here are my top picks for winter 2024:

Classic Winter Hues:

  • Deep Navy (always elegant!)
  • Forest Green
  • Rich Burgundy
  • Midnight Black (yes, it's totally okay for winter weddings!)

Winter Metallics:

  • Silver (perfect for winter!)
  • Dark Gold
  • Gunmetal
  • Deep Bronze

Cool-Toned Options:

  • Deep Purple
  • Ice Blue (keep it dark enough)
  • Charcoal Gray
  • Deep Teal

Colors to Avoid:

  • Pastel pink
  • Light spring colors
  • Bright summer hues
  • Pure white/ivory (let's not compete with snow OR the bride!)

Need year-round color advice? Check our complete wedding guest dress guide!

Best Fabrics for Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

The secret to staying stylish AND warm? Fabric choice! Here's what works best:

Luxe Winter Fabrics:

  • Velvet (winter's MVP fabric!)
  • Heavy silk
  • Thick crepe
  • Fine wool blend
  • Brocade
  • Heavy satin

Pro tip: Consider renting your dress - why buy a heavy winter dress you might only wear once?

Winter Wedding Guest Dress Styles by Venue

Indoor Ballroom Wedding:

  • Full-length gowns
  • Long sleeves or elegant capes
  • Rich, heavy fabrics
  • Statement velvet pieces

Winter Church Wedding:

  • Conservative coverage
  • Sleeved options
  • Midi or full length
  • Layer-friendly styles

Mountain/Ski Resort Wedding:

  • Practical length for snow
  • Warm, elegant fabrics
  • Boot-friendly hemlines
  • Easy to layer

Planning ahead for warmer months? See our fall wedding guest dress guide too!

Where to Buy Sustainable Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

My favorite eco-friendly brands with gorgeous winter options:

Reformation Shop Here

  • Price Range: $200-500
  • Best For: Stunning velvet dresses
  • Size Range: 0-24
  • Why Love: Sustainable fabrics in perfect winter colors

Sézane Shop Here

  • Price Range: $145-325
  • Best For: Sophisticated winter styles
  • Size Range: 2-14
  • Why Love: Beautiful wool blends and winter textures

Rent the Runway Shop Here

  • Price Range: $30-100 (rental)
  • Best For: Designer winter dresses
  • Size Range: 0-22
  • Why Love: Try luxury winter fabrics without commitment

Boden Shop Here

  • Price Range: $150-350
  • Best For: Classic winter styles
  • Size Range: 2-22
  • Why Love: Beautiful wool blends and winter weights

Winter Wedding Guest Dress Practical Tips

Staying Warm:

  • Consider thermal slip dresses
  • Bring elegant cover-ups
  • Think about coat check
  • Plan for outdoor photos

Winter Wedding Photos:

  • Choose fabrics that don't show wet marks
  • Pick colors that pop against snow
  • Consider sleeve length for outdoor shots
  • Bring winter accessories that look good in photos

Comfort Essentials:

  • Closed-toe shoes (obviously!)
  • Non-slip soles
  • Room for warm layers
  • Comfortable in heated venues

What to Avoid for Winter Weddings

Don't Choose:

  • Thin summer fabrics
  • Open backs without coverage options
  • Short sleeves without layers
  • Impractical shoes for winter
  • Too-tight fits that won't allow layers
  • Holiday party clichés (skip the red and green combo!)

Having a smaller winter celebration? Check our micro wedding planners for intimate winter wedding insights!

Winter-Specific Accessories

Must-Have Additions:

  • Elegant wrap or cape
  • Closed-toe dress shoes
  • Weather-appropriate bag
  • Sophisticated gloves
  • Pretty but warm cover-up
  • Stylish boot options

Ready to Dress for that Winter Wedding?

Remember:

  • Choose winter-weight fabrics
  • Plan for temperature changes
  • Consider practical elements
  • Pick rich, seasonal colors
  • Think about photos
  • Layer strategically

Still building your wedding guest wardrobe? Don't miss our guides for other seasons and our complete wedding guest dress guide for year-round advice!

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