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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 should a guest wear to a winter wedding? ›

Long, sleeveless gowns are the most practical option for winter weddings. They're elegant, appropriate for formal ceremonies, and you won't overheat if you plan to spend most of the evening on the dance floor.

What should a 50 year old woman wear to a winter wedding? ›

My favorite dress types for women over 50 are fit and flare and A-line silhouettes. These two styles are flattering for so many body types. They have a defined waistline and are very forgiving as they take attention away from the midsection and camouflage wider hips and thighs.

What should a 60 year old woman wear to a wedding? ›

Fit-and-flare Wedding Guest Dresses For Women Over 60

Fit-and-flare dresses whether knee-length or longer are chic and flattering. It has a defined waistline and fits closer to the body but is not too tight which makes it uncomfortable. This forgiving silhouette fits every body type.

What color to wear to a December wedding? ›

Metallic tones such as gold, silver, and bronze, also work well for winter weddings. Pro tip from wedding planner, Karen Brown: "If you're attending a winter wedding, dress in warm colors like burgundy, brown, purple, gray, and green."

Can you wear black to a winter wedding as a guest? ›

"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 keep guests warm at a winter wedding? ›

Here are five ways to keep your guests nice and toasty at your winter wedding.
  1. Blankets. If you're getting married during the off-season and have the option to have your ceremony outside, consider putting out some blankets that your guests can snuggle up with. ...
  2. Signature co*cktails. ...
  3. Firepits. ...
  4. Mood Lighting. ...
  5. Hot Beverages.
Nov 2, 2021

What color of wedding dress should an older woman wear? ›

Older brides can and do wear white on their wedding day if they choose to. White is a classic and timeless choice for wedding attire that symbolises purity, new beginnings and the celebration of love.

What does a 55 year old wear to a wedding? ›

co*cktail dresses generally refer to shorter dresses with a semi-formal feel (think knee-length or mini), but midi dresses or more casual maxi dresses can work too.

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

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.

What should a 70 year old woman wear? ›

In your 70s, all bets are off—you've aged out of arbitrary rules and have license to wear whatever the heck you want. This is the perfect time to experiment with arty styles like tailored sweater coats, wide-leg pants, unusual clutches, and colorful patterns. You've got all the confidence you need to pull this off.

What should a 70 year old woman wear to a wedding? ›

Loose-fit skirts with elegant prints and pleats that spread easily while sitting. Trousers that pull on easily with back waist elastication for added comfort. Cardigans without buttons that are warm and easy to put on.

How to look classy at 60? ›

5 tips for dressing in your 60s
  1. Big patterns, bold colors. First, let's toss the old “rules” and expectations for how a 60+ woman should dress. ...
  2. Breathable fabrics? A breath of fresh air. ...
  3. Balance timeless with trends. Trends are for everybody. ...
  4. Layer mixed textures. ...
  5. Accessorize with dressed-up details.

What color should a winter wedding guest wear? ›

Jewel tones (ruby red, yellow topaz, sapphire blue, or emerald green) or cool tones (pink, red, blue/blue undertones) are always great choice colors for the winter months. The colors make it great to wear to a winter wedding.

Can you wear light blue to a winter wedding in winter? ›

Wear Seasonal Colors

Baby blue, dusty rose, and champagne are often the obvious color choices for weddings. However, the winter could use a change. Go for pine green, sapphire blue, black, burgundy, deep orange, or even mustard yellow.

Can I have bare legs at a winter wedding? ›

If you wear tights to a winter wedding, do it because you don't want your legs to be cold. Would you rather not, because you can't find any non-ripped ones or be- cause they're simply cramping your style? Then by all means go barelegged.

What to wear to a winter wedding not a dress? ›

co*cktail Winter Wedding Guest Outfit Ideas

It doesn't even have to be a dress. A dressy jumpsuit or a stunning set works as well! However, if you do go with a dress, I typically opt for something shorter for co*cktail events, such as a midi length.

What to wear for a December wedding for a female? ›

Consider charcoal or camel, or even opt for a sleek black dress – that's right, you can wear black to a wedding, especially in winter. In fact, a city wedding is the perfect opportunity for showcasing a chic, fashion-forward outfit with statement accessories.

Can I have bare legs at a wedding? ›

I have advised readers that while bare legs are fine even at the most formal events, hosiery also is perfectly acceptable as long as it's skin tone and sheer. I've just returned from a wedding where I wore my new bargain ($10!) black sequined mini and consignment store jeweled black shoes (also $10).

Can you wear an spaghetti strap dress to a winter wedding? ›

A spaghetti-strap dress can be a stunning choice for winter events. If you're looking for winter wedding guest outfit ideasOpens a new window, here's how to make it work: Formal Events: Choose a co*cktail dress or slip dress in a heavier fabric like velvet or a detailed brocade, adding an air of winter elegance.

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