Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (2024)

Table of Contents
Dancing Queen Put A Bow On It Foiled Trailblazer Ice Princess Belle of the Ball Sweater Weather Lady In Red 3-Way Pleat It Halston Tonya One-Shoulder Sequin Fringe Midi Dress Halston Tonya One-Shoulder Sequin Fringe Midi Dress Sau Lee Emilie Bow Dress Sau Lee Emilie Bow Dress Collective The Label One Shoulder Metallic Mini Dress Collective The Label One Shoulder Metallic Mini Dress Alice + Olivia Latoya Feather Cuff Blazer Mini Dress Alice + Olivia Latoya Feather Cuff Blazer Mini Dress Sachin & Babi Pryce Satin-Finish Gown Sachin & Babi Pryce Satin-Finish Gown Alfred Sung Strapless Cuff Satin Gown Alfred Sung Strapless Cuff Satin Gown J. Crew Turtleneck Sweater-Dress J. Crew Turtleneck Sweater-Dress Dolce & Gabbana Satin Bustier Midi Dress Dolce & Gabbana Satin Bustier Midi Dress Rhode Tracy Dress Rhode Tracy Dress Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Trapeze Mini Dress Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Trapeze Mini Dress Jovani Sweetheart Off-Shoulder Ruffle Midi Dress Jovani Sweetheart Off-Shoulder Ruffle Midi Dress O.P.T Black Chase Mini Dress O.P.T Black Chase Mini Dress Miscreants Satin Dress & Gloves Miscreants Satin Dress & Gloves Bevza Cady Midi Dress Bevza Cady Midi Dress Eliza J Mock Neck Blouson Gown Eliza J Mock Neck Blouson Gown Francesca’s Claudia Sleeveless Layered Lurex Maxi Dress Francesca’s Claudia Sleeveless Layered Lurex Maxi Dress Orseund Iris Starlight Skater Dress Orseund Iris Starlight Skater Dress Rachel Gilbert Sequin-Embellished Maxi Dress Rachel Gilbert Sequin-Embellished Maxi Dress Bardot Sigma Velvet Flared Minidress Bardot Sigma Velvet Flared Minidress Reformation Tommie Knit Dress Reformation Tommie Knit Dress FAQs References
Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (1)

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Seasonality aside, proper wedding guest etiquette is de rigueur—don’t wear white, don’t wear jeans, don’t outdo the bride. So when it comes to deciding what to wear to a wedding, winter ceremonies can be exclusively difficult to plan for in terms of how to dress. The best winter wedding guest dresses should exist somewhere near the convergence of style and, unless you’re jetting off to a tropical destination, seasonal appropriateness.

Luckily, current and forecasted winter fashion trends fall effortlessly in line this way. Dark florals, icy blues, rich velvets, mirrored metallics, and bold reds help reinvent your favorite long-sleeved styles and maxi dresses that you can depend on when temperatures start to drop. What’s more, a lot of these styles can double as the perfect holiday party outfit, while simpler silhouettes can be dressed down with a pair of pointed-toe boots or a few pieces of affordable jewelry.

Shop our list of the 40 best winter wedding guest dresses below, from cozy sweater styles to evening gowns and everything in between.

Dancing Queen

Halston Tonya One-Shoulder Sequin Fringe Midi Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (12)

Dancing Queen

Halston Tonya One-Shoulder Sequin Fringe Midi Dress

Now 60% Off

If you’re looking for an excuse to wear the metallics trend, there’s no better opportunity than a winter wedding. Stand out in a sea of all-black ensembles with this silver fringe midi dress.

Sizes: 0-16

Colors: Silver

Customer review: “⁦Love this dress! It fits comfortably and true to size. It brings Hollywood glam!⁩”

Your presence is the present in this flared-skirt minidress, complete with side pockets.

Sizes: 0-14

Colors: Black

Foiled

Collective The Label One Shoulder Metallic Mini Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (14)

Foiled

Collective The Label One Shoulder Metallic Mini Dress

This doll-like minidress is perfect for weddings, holiday parties, and New Year’s Eve festivities. Complement the purple metallic tone and accessorize with hints of silver.

Sizes: 2-12

Colors: Pewter

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Trailblazer

Alice + Olivia Latoya Feather Cuff Blazer Mini Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (15)

Trailblazer

Alice + Olivia Latoya Feather Cuff Blazer Mini Dress

Now 60% Off

This blazer dress looks as warm as it does fashionable, thanks to thick velvet finish and feathered cuffs. Add a pair of sheer tights underneath and an accented clutch.

Sizes: 0-14

Colors: Black

Ice Princess

Sachin & Babi Pryce Satin-Finish Gown

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (16)

Ice Princess

Sachin & Babi Pryce Satin-Finish Gown

Bold reds are the present, and serene blues are the future. Gearing up to become one of the top spring 2024 fashion trends, this hue has been seen on the biggest NYFW spring/summer runways—from Jason Wu to Proenza Schouler.

Sizes: 0-14

Colors: Baby Blue

Belle of the Ball

Alfred Sung Strapless Cuff Satin Gown

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (17)

Belle of the Ball

Alfred Sung Strapless Cuff Satin Gown

Now 13% Off

If you’re attending a more formal function this season and need a black-tie wedding guest dress, this satin evergreen gown all but guarantees that you’ll fall elegantly in line with the dress code.

Sizes: 0-20

Colors: Evergreen, Midnight

Customer review: “Beyond perfect and simply stunning!”

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Sweater Weather

J. Crew Turtleneck Sweater-Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (18)

Sweater Weather

J. Crew Turtleneck Sweater-Dress

This seasonal sweater dress will be the most versatile piece in your winter wardrobe. Dress it up for a formal event with a pair of sparkly heels (like these Belgravia Bow Slingbacks from Kurt Geiger), or wear it over your favorite boots for day-to-day occasions.

Sizes: XXS-2XL

Colors: Black, Autumn Pine

Customer review: “The mock neck and midi length are the perfect combo to balance the fitted shape, and it’ll be a go-to this winter with heeled boots or loafers. The fabric is super soft with a nice stretch.”

Lady In Red

Dolce & Gabbana Satin Bustier Midi Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (19)

Lady In Red

Dolce & Gabbana Satin Bustier Midi Dress

Emulate the fashion highlights of Margot Robbie and Emily Ratajkowski with this red carpet-worthy, D&G bustier dress. It’s sure to earn you the title of best-dressed guest, but be warned, it’s selling out fast (and for good reason).

Sizes: 0-14

Colors: Rosso scurissimo

3-Way

Rhode Tracy Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (20)

3-Way

Rhode Tracy Dress

Now 30% Off

The more the merrier. You can wear this three-piece set as a sequin top and matching midi skirt, or add the organza puff sleeve dress over top for a contrast of color and texture.

Sizes: 0-14

Colors: Seaglass

Customer review: “Omg...this dress is a dream.”

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Pleat It

Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Trapeze Mini Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (21)

Pleat It

Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Trapeze Mini Dress

An elevated shift dress, this rich emerald mini offers a simple solution for all seasonal affairs. Bonus: It’s available in petite and and tall sizes as well.

Sizes: XXS-XL

Colors: Green, Red, Black

Customer review: “I bought this for a semi-formal event and I LOVED it!”

Heart of Black

Jovani Sweetheart Off-Shoulder Ruffle Midi Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (22)

Heart of Black

Jovani Sweetheart Off-Shoulder Ruffle Midi Dress

Reigning supreme in the formal wear space, Jovani offers no shortage of wedding-worthy dresses and jumpsuits. This black midi dress features a sweetheart-shaped neckline and exaggerated ruffle details.

Sizes: 0-14

Colors: Black

The LBD

O.P.T Black Chase Mini Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (23)

The LBD

O.P.T Black Chase Mini Dress

The classic little black dress has been re-fitted in thick black velvet for wintry months. You can easily dress this up with a pair of sparkly heels or a pearl necklace, and dress it down with an oversized blazer or bomber.

Sizes: XS-L

Colors: Black

Customer review: “Really cute, TTS, I ordered a M and am a 36C and usually an 8-10 in dress size. This fits well! I’m 3 months post-partum and this dress will be perfect for a formal holiday party.”

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Playing Cupid

Miscreants Satin Dress & Gloves

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (24)

Playing Cupid

Miscreants Satin Dress & Gloves

If you’re looking to add a little bit of warmth while racking up style points, try an opera-length set of gloves for extra coverage. This satin ensemble set offers just that, as well as a refreshing pop of pastel pink.

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: Baby Pink

Two-Tone

Bevza Cady Midi Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (25)

Two-Tone

Bevza Cady Midi Dress

Now 50% Off

Whatever the occasion, Bevza never disappoints. A runway show I rarely miss, this Ukranian-founded brand focuses on pieces that exude “less and luxe,” like this timeless Cady Midi.

Sizes: XS-M

Colors: Black

La Vida Velvet

Eliza J Mock Neck Blouson Gown

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (26)

La Vida Velvet

Eliza J Mock Neck Blouson Gown

Now 50% Off

Luxurious velvet elevates a bloused halter gown on this Eliza J fan-favorite style.

Sizes: 0-18

Colors: Navy

Customer review: “Looks even better in person! This dress is elegant and also comfortable to wear. Can’t wait to wear it to a December wedding. Fits true to size but I’m 5’4” so it’ll need a hem.”

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Tiers of Joy

Francesca’s Claudia Sleeveless Layered Lurex Maxi Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (27)

Tiers of Joy

Francesca’s Claudia Sleeveless Layered Lurex Maxi Dress

For one-of-a-kind pieces and special occasion styles, Francesca’s has you covered. Red and neutral tones diverge on this tiered maxi dress that’s polished off with a black velvet bow—which means you can easily match it to any of the black shoes or accessories you already own.

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: Red

Skater Style

Orseund Iris Starlight Skater Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (28)

Skater Style

Orseund Iris Starlight Skater Dress

Who among us hasn’t yearned for the twirly, feminine quality of a figure skater’s dress? This more demure version from Orseund Iris is made of 100 percent silk and pairs seamlessly with the brand’s matching long sleeve bolero jacket.

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: Midnight Blue

All That Glitters

Rachel Gilbert Sequin-Embellished Maxi Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (29)

All That Glitters

Rachel Gilbert Sequin-Embellished Maxi Dress

Give off vintage Hollywood glam with this fully sequined maxi dress, featuring a side slit and square neckline for a touch of refined detail. Since this is more of a statement style, you’ll want to keep your accessories muted and minimal.

Sizes: XS-2XL

Colors: Silver

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La Vie En Rose

Bardot Sigma Velvet Flared Minidress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (30)

La Vie En Rose

Bardot Sigma Velvet Flared Minidress

Romance is in the air with Bardot’s velvet rosette minidress. A corset bodice, A-line hem, and sweetheart neckline add charming details that make this style fit for a fairytale.

Sizes: 2-12

Colors: Fire Red

Customer review: “This dress is soooo cute, really well made and I highly recommend. The price is a bit steep for me, but it’s a special occasion dress.”

Dark Blooms

Reformation Tommie Knit Dress

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (31)

Dark Blooms

Reformation Tommie Knit Dress

Florals are no longer just for spring. Play up a winter 2023 trend—dark florals—with this knit dress from Reformation. The full length and long sleeves in combination with the pattern of blooms will help keep you warm without looking drab.

Sizes: XS-XL

Colors: Admire, Black, Sanguine

Save the Date, These Are the Season’s Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses (2024)

FAQs

What dress to wear as a winter wedding guest? ›

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.

What are the colors for winter wedding guests? ›

Follow a deep, rich color palette.

Black and navy appropriate for winter weddings, but so are jewel tones, such as sapphire, ruby, garnet, emerald, citrine, or amethyst. Metallic tones such as gold, silver, and bronze, also work well for winter weddings.

How can I look stylish in winter wedding? ›

Jewel Tones And Rich Hues:

Embrace the winter colour palette with jewel tones and rich, deep hues. Think emerald greens, royal blues and luxurious burgundies. Not only do these colours exude warmth, but they also perfectly complement the cosy ambiance of winter weddings.

What do you wear to a winter barn wedding? ›

Earth Tones and Warm Hues

Rustic weddings naturally gravitate towards a more natural environment. For your wedding guest dress, think of earth tones or warm hues, especially for Fall and Winter rustic weddings. Men can opt for dark brown or dark green suits or ties to be on theme.

Can a guest 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."

How do you wear a wedding dress in the winter? ›

By
  1. A Little Alteration & A Few Adjustments. Sleeves are a great addition to your dress to combat the frosty temperatures of a winter wedding. ...
  2. Choose a Stylish (Yet Cosy!) Coverup. ...
  3. Add A Jacket. Bridal leather jackets are having quite the moment! ...
  4. Switch Up Your Accessories. ...
  5. Consider Your Shoes. ...
  6. Go Bold With Hair & Makeup.

What shoes to wear to a formal winter wedding? ›

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!

How do I look classy and elegant in winter? ›

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.

Can you wear bare legs to a winter wedding? ›

It should LOOK like you're wearing stockings. So if your legs are toned, tight and tan, sure go barelegged. Of course, you're still going to want to use a nice tinted moisturizer or leg makeup just to make sure everything is nice and even.

Do you have to wear a long dress to a winter wedding? ›

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.

Can you wear pants to a winter wedding? ›

Accordingly, if you're a wedding guest at a winter wedding, you need to follow a certain dress code. Most men wear a tuxedo or full suit (jacket and dress pants) in darker colors, such as black, navy blue, and brown, whereas ladies don maxi dresses made of velvet or other opulent fabrics.

What do you wear on a cold wedding day? ›

We recommend wearing your most stylish coat, gloves, hat and scarf." Alicia Fritz, owner of A Day In May Events, advises sticking to a few key fabrics when sourcing these garments-namely wool. "A long tweed skirt with a cashmere sweater and a great pump make a wonderful winter wedding outfit," she says.

Do you have to wear a long sleeve wedding dress in winter? ›

Just because you've chosen to be a winter bride doesn't mean you have to wear a long-sleeved wedding dress. Some brides prefer a sleeveless look to showcase their best features as they walk down the aisle. Others might have indoor ceremonies with effective heating systems planned.

Can you wear red to a winter wedding? ›

Specifically, Hurwitz points out that “for a fall or winter wedding, look for moodier shades of red like cranberry, crimson, ruby, or wine." Rich, heavy textures, such as velvet and jacquard, will also heighten the luxury of your look—especially for a formal or black-tie wedding.

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