Building a winter wedding outfit is a process rife with problems. You want to be warm, but you don't want to feel so bundled up that you can't show off your outfit. Then there's the issue of accidentally wearing all black and looking rather sombre for a lovely occasion. Indeed, it's a sartorial minefield.
But fear not, as there is no shortage of solutions to the cold-weather outfit dilemma. I’ve worked tirelessly to hunt down a few looks that are super easy to copy and will work for not only someone's chilly nuptials but also any other occasion you might have coming up that you want to dress up for. And yes, they just might help you get some use out of pieces you already own. What can I say? I’ve always been partial to a bit of multitasking.
Keep scrolling to unlock the winter wedding outfits guaranteed to earn you best dressed guest status and that will keep you from getting frostbite.
1. LOOSE SILHOUETTES WILL HIDE SECRET LAYERS
Style Notes: As someone who is always cold, I know the antidote lies in layering—this is what makes this outfit idea so genius. Take one of the many beautiful oversized dresses out there. The fluid silhouette will mean you can wear a thermal vest or bodysuit underneath and no one will be any wiser. In my opinion, you can’t fault this Uniqlo Heattech top.
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This loose style can hide leggings or a heattech top.
Add an evening touch with metallic accessories.
These were made for all-night dancing.
2. LONG-SLEEVE DRESSES ARE YOUR FRIEND
Style Notes: Winter doesn't mean you have to hide behind chunky outerwear. Instead, make long-sleeve dresses your go-to for any occasion, weddings included. Chances are you won't have to spend much time outside anyway, but the long sleeves will give you that little extra defence from the elements. Applying that same logic, we also recommend opting for a style that falls below the knee.
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The mix of velvet and silk make this perfect for cooler wedding days.
The eye-catching rose silhouette will ensure you make an entrance.
Evoke 70s styling with this platform pair.
3. TRY A PAIR OF FANCY TROUSERS
Style Notes: Trousers present a chic alternative to typical wedding guest dresses. For a winter service, we suggest choosing a wide-leg pair in a pretty satin fabric for a chic look that's also season-appropriate.
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Burgundy and pink are a lesser known match made in heaven.
How fun are these!
4. WEIGHTY FABRICS WILL KEEP YOU COSY
Style Notes: In winter, make use of the gorgeous weighty textures on offer—velvet is my favourite for wearing for special occasions.
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This elegant dress comes in sizes 8 to 24.
If there were ever a time for an embellished bag, its a wedding.
Classic black pumps are a wardrobe staple.
5. HAVE A MAXI MOMENT
Style Notes: Few occasions call for a formal maxi-length dress, so when they present themselves, I advise embracing it. Again, the longer length will prove crucial when the temperatures plummet.
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This shimmering dream comes in sizes 8 to 26.
Keep the sparkle going from head to toe.
6. STAY SHARP IN SUITING
Style Notes: Brides aren't the only ones optioning for suits at weddings these days—in fact, they're fast becoming more popular amongst guests, too. In winter, they're a no-brainer, as they'll inevitably keep you warmer than any floaty dress ever could.
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Sharp tailoring is always a good idea.
This chic suit comes in sizes 4 to 26.
Freshen up a classic suit with a fun shoe.
7. KNITWEAR FOR NUPTIALS IS A THING
Style Notes: Knitwear might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to styling a wedding guest outfit, but there are so many dresses in knitted fabrications right now that are legitimately polished it’s now perfectly acceptable to wear them to weddings.
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Self-portrait makes such beautiful dresses.
If you’re still on the fence, use fabulous accessories to elevate them further.
Amina Muaddi's shoes define glamour.
8. IF IN DOUBT, JUMPSUIT
Style Notes: Take a piece from each of the aforementioned sections—long sleeves, trousers, satin—and what do you get? Karina's chic jumpsuit look. Simply round off your ensemble with an on-trend beaded bag, and you're good to go.
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The satin finish adds to the elevated look.
So sweet.
This pared back pair add a refined touch to your look.
9. DON'T DISREGARD BLACK DRESSES
When it comes to dressing for warmth, black fabrics are a reliable start. As black absorbs heat, your LBD will actually keep you warm by transmitting the heat to your skin. The long sleeves and high neckline on this 16Arlington midi won't hurt, either. Add colourful accessories into the mix to lighten the look for celebrations.
The feather cuffs add a playful touch.
This might be my new favourite Arket bag.
Next Up, Autumn/Winter 2022 Trends: The 15 Fashion Looks That You Need to Know About.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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