Stunning Winter Outfits for Wedding Guests: Elegant and Warm Looks for the Cold Season

Winter is a magical season with holiday cheer, wondrous snow, and cozy lights. It’s the perfect time for all kinds of events, including weddings.

But what do you wear to a winter wedding? The season is magnificent, but it comes with cold weather, making styling outfits significantly harder. 

If you’re struggling to find an elegant wedding guest look that keeps you warm while also being chic– you’ve come to the right place.

I’ve also struggled to find cute outfits while staying warm in the winter, and I have a few tips that’ll help you out.

Below, I’ve gathered some fashion intel so you can look awesome this winter. From strategic layering to fashionable coats, I’ve got you covered.

I’ve even gathered a list of seasonal colors and ideas for accessorizing. So, if you’re ready to find your winter wedding guest outfit: look no further. 

In This Post:

• Choosing the Right Fabric
• Choosing the Right Color
• Choose a Dress Style
• Choose Outwear
• Choosing Accessories
• Choose to Layer
• Choose Seasonal Prints and Patterns
• Choose a Budget Friendly Dress
• Styling Tips

Choosing the Right Fabric 

Fabrics are so important when it comes to styling, but in the winter, it’s vital. Picking the right fabric will keep you classy and warm. You don’t have to sacrifice your style just because it’s cold. With the right fabric, you can do both.

My top four fabrics for winter are velvet, wool, silk, and knit. 

Velvet is regal and seductive. It comes in a variety of colors, so you’ll be guaranteed to find one that suits you. Velvet is also a heavier fabric that will keep you warm all night long. 

Photo by @rowdabaker 

Wool is a winter staple. Iconic for being a warm and comfortable fabric, but it can also be super stylish. You can elevate a wool dress by throwing on the right pair of shoes or jewelry. Below, I’ve detailed ways to maximize accessorizing.

hoosing wool for you next winter wedding guest dress is a sure6t way to stay toast and stylish.

Silk is another fabulous option for a winter wedding. A great mix of classy and sexy. Long silk dresses create a marvelous silhouette that will complement any body type.

Photo by @nishaybatool 

Knit is another great option. If, like me, you love a chunky knit sweater, then this option is for you. Knit comes in a variety of different styles. Similar to wool, knit will keep you warm throughout the entire winter wedding. Consider pairing a knit dress with a statement earring. 

Choosing the Right Color

Winter might bring dull weather, but not dull fashion. It’s the perfect time to bring out bold and striking colors. Deep tones, like emerald, burgundy and navy are perfect for the season. Gravitate towards these colors for you next winter wedding guest outfit. 

Photo by @merna.majdy 

Try out some festive colors! I love the magic of the holiday season, so why not incorporate it into your outfits? Sparkly jewels and metallic colors, like gold, silver, and ruby will have you shining like an icy diamond. 

You can also try a totally different approach and lean into subtle winter colors. Bring some warmth out of the cold season in colors like ivory, blush or champagne. These lighter tones will have you sparkling in winter. 

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Choose a Dress Style

Photo by Bjorn Beheydt

Since we’re on the topic of maxi dresses, they really are the ultimate winter staple. Maxi dresses go down to your ankles, ensuring your legs are protected from the cold. There are so many different options when it comes to maxi dresses. Consider using the tips from above to help you pick what style or color to go for. 

Photo by @lliana_ua 

Not feeling a dress? Don’t wear one! Go for a stylish and chic pantsuit or jumpsuit. They just so happen to be fabulous for the winter as well. Pantsuits will keep your body warm throughout the winter wedding while you look incredible. 

Choose Outwear

First and foremost: the perfect jacket. It’s winter, it’s freezing, and if you need anything, it’s a stylish and warm jacket. Luckily, I have a few ideas for you. I recommend faux fur coats, trench coats, or wool coats. Keep in mind the tips from above, and make sure the color or fabric of your jacket doesn’t overpower your outfit. 

Photo by An Indigo Day |

For the super elegant and ultra regal wedding guest, I recommend a shawl. Shawls are classy and add an extra layer to keep you warm. Depending on your outfit, a shawl could be the perfect touch. For example, a silk maxi dress paired with a matching shawl. 

Blazers are also a great fashion choice, and that goes for wedding guest outfits as well. A blazer gives you a mature and chic look. Consider adding a blazer over a wrap dress or pantsuit. Don’t forget to match the color of your outfit and blazer. 

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Choosing Accessories 

Photo by Bjorn Beheydt 

Wintertime means bootie time. Heeled boots, knee-high boots, or ankle boots, it doesn’t matter— they all do the trick. Boots elevate every outfit, and they are great for winter. Add that extra layer of warmth while looking on point. 

If the wedding is indoors, opt for a classic closed toe pump or loafers. 

One of my all time favorite things about winter fashion is tights. Tights elevate every single outfit. Opt for a pair of bold and striking tights to enhance your look. You can also go for a pair of discrete tights.

Either way, tights add such a fun flare to any winter outfit. For a winter wedding, I’d suggest adding a pair of statement tights under a long sleeve dress. 

Gloves and scarves might be some of the most neglected fashion items— and that’s just wrong.

These accessories can spice up any outfit by bringing unique flair. Consider matching your shoes to your gloves or scarf to tie your outfit together. 

For the classics: jewelry and hair pins. Now, there is a reason these accessories are classic– they work!

If you feel like your winter wedding guest outfit needs to be dressed up, consider a pearl necklace or sparkly hair clip.  Hoop or dangly earrings are also great for the cold season. 

Choose to Layer

What if your winter wedding is outdoors? Don’t panic, I got you. Layering is going to be your best friend in this situation. Pull on some thermal tights and tops to wear under your outfit.

These layers are light so they won’t bulk under your clothes, and you’ll stay toast all night long. If thermals are a bit too much, you can also slip on a bodysuit. Like the thermals, a bodysuit will provide an extra layer of warmth.

Play around with your layering! A fabulously chic example of this is wearing a turtleneck under a silk dress.

You can take a thin dress and make it warmer by adding long sleeves underneath. Get creative, and don’t forget the tips about fabrics and colors. 

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: winter is for jackets! Make sure you pick a jacket that compliments your outfit.

If you’re wearing a maxi velvet dress, pair it with a mid-trench coat. Keep in mind which colors and fabrics complement each other.

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Choose Seasonal Prints and Patterns 

Photo by Bjorn Beheydt 

I love mixing prints and fabric, and winter is the time to do it. Pull out a fabulous velvet dress with a dark floral pattern. This look is so elegant while perfectly capturing the winter season. 

Another spectacular winter pattern is plaid. Plaid is cozy and embodies the warmth of the holiday season. This print also comes in a variety of colors, so you’re sure to find a match. Consider pairing a plaid scarf with a long sleeve dress. 

Sparkling jewels just scream holiday cheer. Try incorporating some metallic detailing into your outfits to enhance your outfit. In a jeweled dress, you’ll be a shining winter wedding guest. 

Choose a Budget Friendly Dress

Photo by Bjorn Beheydt 

Another fabulous option is using what you already own! Remember our key layering tips. You can take a summer dress, add tights, and a long sleeve underneath.

You don’t have to buy new formal wear for winter, you can repurpose your clothes into a stunning outfit that will keep you warm.

When shopping on a budget, I recommend splurging on one key piece of clothing. For example, purchase a nice statement jacket. Then, you can shop for less expensive pieces that compliment your new jacket.

You don’t have to be decked out in the fanciest clothing items to rock an outfit. Just pick one clothing item to be the superstar of your outfit and then dress around it. 

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Styling Tips

In winter, it can be hard not to drown in your clothes.  It’s freezing out, and many people opt for thick, bulky layers. When it comes to winter weddings, you don’t want to be swimming in chunky clothes.

I recommend fitted shawls or thin-lined coats. These layers will keep you warm and chic without weighing you down. 

Depending on the wedding you’re attending, you might want to switch up your look after the ceremony. A great way to spice up your wedding guest outfit is by adding accessories. When it’s time for the reception, slip in a sparkly hair pin or bold necklace.

And boom! You’re ready to party.

My favorite way to keep my hands warm in winter is to slip hand warmers into my pockets. You can also opt for heavier fabrics that have pockets.

Don’t forget to wear warm socks with your boots. If you’re wearing heels, you can opt for a statement sock. Make sure your hands and feet stay warm this winter!

Final Thoughts

Deciding on the perfect winter wedding guest outfit can be challenging. You have to find a way to stay warm without sacrificing your style. Next time you’re in a crunch to find a winter wedding guest outfit, use some of these tips to help you!

Get creative! Try out new fabrics, prints, or patterns. Explore different styles that you might not have before. You can even build new and fun outfits from your own closet!

Fashion is unique and exciting, spend some time finding your own style. Use these tips, and your winter wedding guest outfit will be stunning!

THAT’S A WRAP! THIS ARTICLE WAS ALL ABOUT WINTER OUTFITS FOR WEDDING GUESTS!

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