So, you’ve had an invitation to a winter wedding, but what do you wear? Most of us find it much easier to dress for summer nuptials, but when the days are grey, the temperature plummets and the weather becomes unreliable, a light maxi dress won’t always cut it.

We’re here to provide some tips so you can attend your next winter wedding in style, with outfit inspiration for all formalities, dress codes and locations.

What Do You Wear to a Winter Wedding

Sleeveless and short sleeve dresses are a stylish option for summer, but won’t offer much protection against the winter chill. It’s a good idea to choose something with cropped or long sleeves to stay warm, especially if you’ll be outdoors for prolonged periods during the big day. Sleeves will add an extra touch of elegance to your look and bring a seasonal spin to any wedding outfit. If it’s not too cold by the time the wedding comes around, you might even be able to get away with leaving your coat indoors.

What Not to Wear to a Winter Wedding

As well as considering sleeves, you’ll also want to think about the length of your dress. Midi and maxi dresses are sophisticated options for a winter wedding and provide greater protection against icy temperatures, which makes all the difference in draughty churches and when you’re travelling between the ceremony and reception.

Go Luxe in Velvet and Sequins

One of the great things about winter weddings is that they allow you to go glitzy when choosing an outfit, especially in the build-up to Christmas when party season is upon us. Add a touch of festive spirit and glamour to your outfit by opting for sequined dresses and accessories, or choose a velvet dress for a refined look. Velvet has the added benefit of keeping you toasty throughout the day, being thicker and more insulating than chiffon and satin outfits.

What Colours to Wear to a Winter Wedding

Pastels are perfect for spring and summer events, but winter is when rich, darker hues really come into their own. Choose gorgeous wintery shades such as reds, purples, blues, and deep greens for a stunning seasonal look. Winter is the perfect time to go more gothic and truly stand out with your style, so don’t be afraid to experiment with shades you might usually shy away from. If colour isn’t really your thing, all-black outfits are also an elegant choice for winter weddings. Black doesn’t have to be boring, either, as a few carefully chosen items of statement jewellery can add a dash of sparkle and a festive finishing touch.

Layer Up Your Outfit

Layering a sophisticated cape or wrap over your outfit is the perfect way to stay warm and inject a dose of distinctive style into your ensemble. These chic shorter layers are suitable for both indoors and outdoors and will enhance your overall look rather than hiding your carefully selected dress away.

What Shoes to Wear to a Winter Wedding

To complete your perfect winter wedding look, be sure to invest in the right footwear for the occasion! Closed-toe flats or heels are ideal, keeping your feet warm and dry no matter what the weather throws at you. If you have the opportunity to stow them away somewhere, you could even take your favourite black boots with you to give your sore feet a break once the after-party is in full swing.

Accessories for Winter Weddings

Winter formal wear is all about sumptuous fabrics and sparkle, which means velvet, sequins, satin, and faux fur. For those who’d rather wear something a bit more understated, however, you can still incorporate a touch of glamour into your ensemble with some carefully chosen accessories. When it comes to your bag, consider a velvet clutch or embellished cross body to instantly elevate your outfit – and as it’s a wedding, why not add a few select pieces of statement jewellery to complete the look?

Deciding what to wear to a winter wedding can be a bit of a challenge, but it doesn't have to be stressful. Follow these tips and ideas to create a chic and appropriate winter wedding look that will have you standing out for all the right reasons.