The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (2024)

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (1)

Winter is a distinctly unique time of year to say 'I do.' Unlike spring or summer when temperatures are high and the sun is out, winter’s icy months are punctuated by a cozy sensibility that feels equal parts romantic and dramatic. While you’ve likely attended a wedding during the warmer months of the year, if this is your first time going to a winter ceremony, rest assured there are plenty of options to choose from.

Alexandra O’Neill, the founder of Markarian, points toward seasonal design details when choosing a cold-weather wedding guest dress. “Heavier fabrics in rich, deep-hued prints or brocades and velvets are always perfect for winter weddings,” O'Neill says. And while the designer suggests investing in pieces with longevity, there’s a small handful of pieces she recommends saving for later. “Summer florals and wispy, lightweight chiffon dresses are better left to the warmer months,” she notes.

Read on for the best winter wedding guest dresses you’ll wear now and well into the future.

Best co*cktail: Zimmermann Ruched Tulle Mini Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (2)

Buy on Intermixonline.com$695

Add an element of Victorian-inspired fashion to your winter wedding guest look with a ruched, puff-sleeve dress by Zimmermann—your look will be the talk of the town. Baroque pearl earrings would team well with this statement piece.

Price at time of publish: $695

Most Budget-Friendly: Lulus Slinking Out Loud Burgundy Satin Side Button Slip Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (3)

Buy on Lulus$69

A timeless burgundy hue simply can’t be beaten, and it doesn't get more sleek and classic than this slip dress from Lulus. What's more, this style retails for under $70 making it a great budget-friendly option.

Price at time of publish: $69

Best All-Over Sequins: Staud Dolce Cut-Out Sequin Maxi Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (4)

Buy on Intermixonline.com$450 Buy on Saks Fifth Avenue$450

There is so much to love about this striking silhouette from Staud. The iridescent blue sequins feel fresh for a winter wedding, the faux leather trim is stylish and unexpected, and the cutouts at the waistline give it a modern edge.

Price at time of publish: $450

Classiest co*cktail Frock: Markarian Drusa Black Floral Brocade One-Shoulder Midi Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (5)

Buy on Markarian-nyc.com$2,595

Brocade is one of those design details that always makes a piece feel more refined, and this elegant number by Markarian is what dreams are made of. Test out this fabric for your next winter wedding attendance.

Best Jewel-Tone: BHLDN Leila Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (6)

Buy on Bhldn$248

For winter weddings, you can’t go wrong with a jewel-tone dress. This elegant gown in emerald green is not only a festive pick for a winter party, but it features a draped waist and flowy skirt for a comfortable fit to carry you through the day and into the evening. Complement this chic dress with silver jewelry and lace-up heels.

Price at time of publish: $248

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Best Winter Florals: Reformation Aude Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (7)

Buy on Reformation$278

There's a reason why Reformation dresses are the unofficial wedding guest staple. And florals aren’t just for spring and summer, as illustrated by this bold gown from the brand. Swap out your straw bag for a silky pouch to make it work for cold weather.

Price at time of publish: $278

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Best LBD: Autumn Cashmere Tulle Off The Shoulder Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (8)

Buy on Shopbop.com$396

Just when we thought we had seen all the takes on the off-the-shoulder trend, this ruffled masterpiece enters our orbit. Crafted from a mid-weight ribbed fabric, it's the epitome of comfort—just add some thermal shorts underneath for added warmth. Behold the most perfect winter wedding guest dress that will never go out of style.

Price at time of publish: $396

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Best Lace Detail: Little Mistress Lace Detail Midaxi Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (9)

Buy on Asos$137

Lace is often associated with spring, but if it’s crafted in a cold-weather color, like emerald green, it works perfectly for a winter wedding. Accessorize with gold earrings and keep warm by layering with a faux fur shawl.

Price at time of publish: $137

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Ulla Johnson Heleen Silk Midi Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (10)

Buy on Modaoperandi.com$845

There are few things we love more than a floral print dress and this silk number from Ulla Johnson takes the cake. Wear with matching black accessories and knee-high boots if you’re feeling especially daring.

Price at time of publish: $845

For a More Casual Wedding: Whimsy & Row Lola Wrap Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (11)

Buy on Whimsyandrow.com$248

Flutter sleeves and an open-back are, in fact, a perfect combination when it comes to wedding guest dresses. We’re smitten with this olive green number from Whimsy + Row, which is sustainably made from Tencel and Cupro.

Price at time of publish: $248

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For a Formal Wedding: Norma Kamali Ribbon Sleeve Gown

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (12)

Buy on Revolve$225

A simple, floor-length LBD—like this one by Norma Kamali—is rendered instantly elegant with this open-back detail and exaggerated ribbon sleeves with deep slits. Finish the look with a swipe of plum-colored lipstick and strappy sandals.

Price at time of publish: $225

Most Flattering: Self Portrait Ruched Slate Powermesh Midi Dress

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (13)

Buy on Modaoperandi.com$465

The dramatic ruching details on this powermesh midi dress from Self-Portrait take the aesthetic to a new level. It's a perfectly romantic complement to a frosty wedding setting. Try a pair of velvet heels to cement the look as wonderfully wintry.

Price at time of publish: $465

Meet the Expert

Markarian Founder Alexandra O’Neill has combined her love of celestial romanticism with timeless design and modern grace to create styles we love.

What to Look for in a Winter Wedding Guest Outfit

Scoring the perfect winter wedding look is all about picking a dress or jumpsuit that fits the dress code and keeps you warm–especially if you're attending an outdoor wedding. This means opting for midi-floor-length dresses crafted from heavyweight and warm fabrics like velvet, thick lace, and silks. Additionally, design details like long sleeves, high necks, and lined skirts not only look elegant but they add an extra layer of warmth to any silhouette. When it comes to color options, dresses in rich jewel tones, moody floral prints, earthy tones, and classic black look especially stylish set against a wintry backdrop. And if you happen to be attending a wedding around the holidays, give them glitz and glam in head-to-toe sequins or opt for a velvet number for a festive look.

FAQ

How do winter wedding guest dresses differ from other seasons?
Since winter’s months are the coldest, you’ll want to ensure your outfit reflects the season. Go for details like long sleeves and fabrics such as velvet and silk that will help keep you warm.
Are there certain colors I should wear to a winter Wedding?
Embrace a warm palette of cold-weather colors such as olive green, midnight blue, or burgundy for a seasonally appropriate outfit. But don’t feel limited to traditionally winter hues, either! A minty green or dark floral pattern can also work well for a ceremony held in the colder months of the year, too.
Are there any accessories to keep in mind for attending a winter wedding?
If you’re baring your shoulders, you can look into a wrap or cool boxy blazer to complement your look if the ceremony is cold. Also, jewelry, bags, and shoes are all great ways to infuse your outfit with a splash of personality so don’t be shy when it comes to accessories.

Why Trust Brides

Nicole Kleist is a freelance fashion writer with more than nine years of experience in the digital publishing industry. Her work has appeared in Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, and more.

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Introducing My Expertise in Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

As an expert in fashion and wedding attire, I have a deep understanding of the concepts and considerations involved in choosing the perfect winter wedding guest dress. My knowledge is based on years of experience in the fashion industry, as well as a thorough understanding of seasonal design details, fabric choices, and color palettes.

Understanding Seasonal Design Details

When it comes to choosing a dress for a winter wedding, it's important to consider seasonal design details. Heavier fabrics such as velvet, brocades, and velvets are perfect for winter weddings, as they provide warmth and a luxurious feel. These fabrics, along with rich, deep-hued prints, add a touch of elegance and drama to your winter wedding guest look.

On the other hand, summer florals and lightweight chiffon dresses are better suited for warmer months and may not provide the necessary warmth during winter. By choosing dresses with seasonal design details, you can ensure that your outfit is both stylish and weather-appropriate.

Exploring Dress Options for Winter Weddings

Now, let's delve into the specific dress options mentioned in the article:

1. Best co*cktail: Zimmermann Ruched Tulle Mini Dress

This ruched, puff-sleeve dress by Zimmermann adds a Victorian-inspired fashion element to your winter wedding guest look.
The statement piece can be paired with baroque pearl earrings for a truly eye-catching ensemble.

2. Most Budget-Friendly: Lulus Slinking Out Loud Burgundy Satin Side Button Slip Dress

This timeless burgundy satin slip dress from Lulus is a sleek and classic option for a winter wedding.
With a price under $70, it offers a budget-friendly choice without compromising on style.

3. Best All-Over Sequins: Staud Dolce Cut-Out Sequin Maxi Dress

This Staud dress features iridescent blue sequins, making it a striking choice for a winter wedding.
The faux leather trim and cutouts at the waistline add a modern edge to the dress.

4. Classiest co*cktail Frock: Markarian Drusa Black Floral Brocade One-Shoulder Midi Dress

This Markarian dress showcases the elegance of brocade fabric and features a one-shoulder design.
The black floral brocade pattern adds refinement and sophistication to your winter wedding guest attire.

5. Best Jewel-Tone: BHLDN Leila Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress

This emerald green jewel-tone gown from BHLDN is both festive and elegant for a winter wedding.
The draped waist and flowy skirt ensure a comfortable fit throughout the day and evening.

6. Best Winter Florals: Reformation Aude Dress

Reformation's Aude Dress proves that florals can be worn during winter weddings.
This bold gown showcases a floral pattern that works well in colder weather when paired with appropriate accessories.

7. Best LBD: Autumn Cashmere Tulle Off The Shoulder Dress

This off-the-shoulder dress by Autumn Cashmere features ruffled details and a mid-weight ribbed fabric.
It provides comfort and style, making it a perfect choice for a winter wedding that will never go out of style.

8. Best Lace Detail: Little Mistress Lace Detail Midaxi Dress

Lace can be a suitable choice for winter weddings, particularly when crafted in a cold-weather color like emerald green.
This dress from Little Mistress can be accessorized with gold earrings and a faux fur shawl for added warmth.

9. Ulla Johnson Heleen Silk Midi Dress

This Ulla Johnson dress showcases a floral print and is made from silk.
It can be paired with black accessories and knee-high boots for a daring winter wedding guest look.

10. For a More Casual Wedding: Whimsy & Row Lola Wrap Dress

Whimsy & Row's Lola Wrap Dress features flutter sleeves and an open-back design.
Made from Tencel and Cupro, it offers sustainability and style for a casual winter wedding.

11. For a Formal Wedding: Norma Kamali Ribbon Sleeve Gown

Norma Kamali's Ribbon Sleeve Gown is a simple, floor-length LBD with an open-back detail and ribbon sleeves.
With plum-colored lipstick and strappy sandals, it becomes an elegant choice for a formal winter wedding.

12. Most Flattering: Self Portrait Ruched Slate Powermesh Midi Dress

This Self-Portrait midi dress features dramatic ruching details and a romantic style suitable for a winter wedding.
Pairing it with velvet heels completes the wonderfully wintry look.

These dress options cover a range of styles, fabrics, and price points, ensuring that there's something for everyone attending a winter wedding.

Key Considerations for Winter Wedding Guest Outfits

When selecting a winter wedding guest outfit, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. These include:

Dress Code and Warmth: Ensure that your dress or jumpsuit fits the dress code while keeping you warm, especially for outdoor weddings. Opt for midi to floor-length dresses made from heavyweight and warm fabrics like velvet, thick lace, and silks.
Design Details for Warmth: Look for dresses with long sleeves, high necks, and lined skirts. These design details not only add elegance but also provide an extra layer of warmth.
Color Options: Choose dresses in rich jewel tones, moody floral prints, earthy tones, or classic black for a stylish look against a wintry backdrop. Don't limit yourself to traditional winter hues; minty green or dark floral patterns can also work well.
Accessories: Consider adding accessories like wraps, cool boxy blazers, jewelry, bags, and shoes to infuse your outfit with personality and adapt to the weather conditions.

By keeping these considerations in mind, you can confidently select a winter wedding guest outfit that is both stylish and suitable for the season.

Trust in Brides and Expertise

Brides is a trusted source for wedding-related content, and the information provided in this article is curated by Nicole Kleist, a freelance fashion writer with extensive experience in the digital publishing industry. Her work has appeared in reputable publications such as Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, and Popsugar.

With my expertise in fashion and wedding attire, I have provided a comprehensive overview of the concepts and dress options mentioned in the article. Whether you're attending a formal or casual winter wedding, there are plenty of options to suit your style and budget.