What to wear to a winter wedding

What’s not to like about a winter celebration? Twinkly, candlelit ceremonies and mulled wine aperitifs will all make for memorable touches.

But draughty churches and outdoor photographs in potentially sub-zero temperatures can throw even the most assured of dressers off their wedding-guest game. So when it comes to dressing for a winter wedding, the aim is to look smart and occasion-ready without shivering your way through the exchange of vows. A pair of fashion insiders share their tips on how to be the chicest – and warmest – person on the guest list.

‘I've spent far too many weddings shivering next to the cheese buffet, so I always opt for dresses with long sleeves,’ says Frankie Graddon, fashion journalist and co-founder of The Wingwoman. ‘The high-neck, long-sleeved modest silhouette continues to be key for this season, meaning there are plenty of options to choose from if you're attending a wedding (or two) this winter.’ 

Steer clear of crisp-collared shirt dresses, which tend to suggest a work-smart formality and look for ruffled collars, tiered hems and statement sleeves. LK Bennett and Ghost never fail to deliver when it comes to such feminine styles. Best of all, this easy silhouette lends itself well to being dressed down with chunky boots, tights and a cardigan or sweater, meaning it will last you long after the wedding in question.

‘A tuxedo jacket in classic black will add some Le Smoking chic to a pretty dress,’ suggests Frankie, addressing what is arguably the trickiest detail – especially when it comes to dressing for a winter wedding. ‘An evening cape in velvet, silk or scattered with beads is a stylish option, as is an embellished cocktail coat.’ Stylist Anna Bromilow, meanwhile, is in the faux-fur camp: ‘invest in a chic faux jacket in a neutral shade. It will go with most things and can be thrown over the shoulders for extra style points.’ The perfect piece to wear for winter weddings, and beyond. 

If you're not keen on wearing a dress to a winter wedding, a trouser suit or long-sleeved jumpsuit makes a savvy alternative to a dress. Not sure how to make a suit wedding-worthy? Try a long-sleeved, lacy top underneath, or a silky camisole if you’re planning to hit a packed dancefloor. Anna suggests going for a black tuxedo. ‘There’s nothing chicer than a woman looking super-glamorous in a suit, so never feel like you have to wear a dress,’ she says. ‘Though I’d make sure hair, make-up and accessories are pumped up – think catwalk rather than conference.’

Winter and velvet go together like summer and chiffon. ‘It’s a great time to play around with rich, sumptuous textures – try a velvet trouser suit teamed with court heels and a great pair of earrings,’ advises Frankie. And, as Anna wisely points out, ‘While it’s difficult to get away with structured underwear under flimsy summer dresses, for winter weddings you can go to town under heavier fabrics making sure what’s underneath is giving superb support.’ 

‘The great thing about winter weddings is that it’s dark, so you can go for strong make-up if that’s how you feel confident,’ says Anna. Whether that’s a smoky eye or a strong lip – or both – the winter wedding season is a great time for experimentation. Anna is also firm on tights. ‘Go for sheer black,’ she insists. ‘I love them with high black courts so if you’re concerned about bare legs, it’s worth buying a pair.’