The natural sparkles of the winter season make it the perfect setting for a magical winter wedding. From snow-dusted churches, frozen lakes, or even a simple sprinkling of frost, winter weddings have a way of feeling extra special and romantic. But figuring out what to wear can be a bit of a challenge — how do you stay stylish while keeping warm in the chilly weather?

Whether you’re attending as a guest, standing at the altar, or walking down the aisle, winter weddings call for outfits that balance elegance with practicality. In this post, we’ll take a look at some fun and unique winter wedding looks to keep you looking fabulous and feeling comfortable all day long.

What is a winter wedding?

A winter wedding can be either a celebration with a magical, snowy theme, or a wedding that takes place between mid-November and February. These months are known for their frosty weather, shorter days, and cosy vibes, making them perfect for a romantic, candlelit ceremony, or an intimate reception by a crackling fireplace.

Whether you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, rich seasonal colours, or a festive feel, a winter wedding offers a unique charm and plenty of opportunities to get creative with your big day. But, dressing for a winter wedding can be tricky. How do you accommodate the weather without sacrificing style, looking cosy but chic in your winter coat?

The good news is that dressing for a winter wedding is easier than you may think. We all know that if layers aren’t done right, they can make you look bulky and feel frumpy. But, when done correctly, layers look chic and sophisticated. It’s all about choosing the right fabrics and accessories. Think elegant coats, scarves, and gloves that complement your outfit (rather than hide it!)

How to pick what to wear in 5 easy steps

If you’re feeling stuck, try following these 5 simple tips to plan the perfect winter wedding outfit.

1. Try a statement coat

Whether it’s brightly coloured, a funky fabric, fur-trimmed, or you’re hopping on the leopard print trend, your coat can double as both a fashion piece and a practical layer to keep you warm. The best part? The coat is your outfit, meaning you don’t have to take it off all day (if you don’t want to!).

2. Prioritise practical footwear

We know your open-toed shoes look amazing with your tea length dress. But, when it’s cold and possibly snowy, those gorgeous shoes might not be the best choice. Instead, prioritise footwear that’s both stylish and practical. Think chic ankle boots or closed-toe heels that can handle slippery paths and chilly temps.

Plus, practical footwear means extra room for warm, cosy socks. Keeping your extremities (hands, feet, the top of your head etc.) warm tricks your body into thinking you’re warmer than you are, keeping you comfortable throughout the day.

Pro tip: You can always switch into those fabulous shoes for indoor moments if need be.

3. Think beyond black

It’s a classic for a reason, right?

Well, yes and no. We know it can be tempting to dress in all black for a winter wedding. It’s effortlessly chic, easy to put together, and universally flattering. But, it can also feel a bit predictable. If you want to stand out in a sea of black, try thinking beyond the usual dark shades.

Winter is the perfect time to experiment with rich, bold colours like deep emerald, royal blue, or burgundy. These jewel tones not only feel festive, but also add a touch of elegance and warmth to your outfit. Plus, they’ll pop beautifully against the neutral, wintry landscape.

4. Layer strategically

The key to staying warm is layering — we all know this. But, layering also adds extra bulk, which can leave you feeling uncomfortable and heavy. To avoid this classic winter wardrobe dilemma, the trick is to layer strategically.

Start with thin, fitted base layers, like thermal tops or leggings, which will keep you warm without adding bulk. From there, you can build up with pieces that still show off your shape (like a tailored jacket or a belted coat), so you can stay cosy without sacrificing style.

If you’re worried about looking too bulky, try layering with different textures and fabrics to add dimension to your outfit without the weight. For example, pair a sleek satin dress with a soft cashmere cardigan or a structured blazer, so you get that warmth without feeling like you’re buried under layers.

5. Take one thing off before you leave the house

Follow Coco Chanel’s sage advice and take off one accessory or a light layer before leaving the house. Whether it’s an extra piece of jewellery or that unnecessary scarf you threw on last minute, this little trick ensures your outfit feels polished, not cluttered. Less is often more, especially when you’re already layering up for warmth.

For more expert advice and guidance on what to wear to a winter wedding, be sure to check out our dedicated post.

9 winter wedding outfit ideas

Whether you need full outfit inspo or are looking for tips on how to accessorise, we’ve got you covered. Read on for 9 fun and unique outfit, accessory, and styling tips to help you ace dressing for a winter wedding.

For brides

1. A lace-trimmed cape

Ditch the veil and opt for a lace-trimmed cape to nod to the traditional while keeping things unique. Capes are a fabulous addition to any wedding look, keeping you warm while adding a regal, fairytale vibe to your bridal look. Whether you go for a full-length cape or a shorter, shoulder-length one, the lace detailing will bring a touch of romance and elegance.

2. White jumpsuit with a statement coat

If traditional isn’t really your style or you want to mix things up, a chic white jumpsuit paired with a statement coat is the way to go. It’s modern, sleek, and gives off serious cool-girl vibes while still looking bridal. The beauty of a jumpsuit is that it’s comfortable and easy to move in, making it perfect for dancing the night away. Pair it with a bold coat to add drama and warmth. Think faux fur, a tailored wool number, or even something with a bit of sparkle.

3. Snowflake-inspired jewellery

Lean into the winter theme while still keeping things elegant with snowflake-inspired jewellery. It’s the perfect way to bring in a little seasonal magic while staying chic and timeless.

Opt for silver or platinum jewellery to keep the frosty vibe going, or even add a touch of sparkle with diamonds or crystals.

Pro tip: Look out for snowflake jewellery that incorporates blue crystals like sapphires, aquamarine, or turquoise. This way, your jewellery can double as your ‘something blue’!

For grooms

4. Velvet dinner jacket and tartan trousers or pants

A winter wedding is the perfect opportunity to mix and match jazzy or unusual fabrics. Try pairing a velvet dinner jacket with tartan trousers or pants for a bold, stylish winter look. Look out for deep tones like burgundy, navy, or forest green to keep things seasonally appropriate. Make sure the tones of your jacket match the tones of the tartan for a cohesive look. For example, forest green with green tartan or a burgundy jacket with red tartan.

It’s important to keep the rest of your look classic to avoid overwhelming the outfit. Pair your statement pieces with a white shirt, black tie, and neutral, polished shoes for a balanced look.

5. Leather gloves

Leather gloves are a practical yet stylish accessory that can elevate your winter wedding outfit. Not only will they keep your hands warm during outdoor moments, but they’ll also add a touch of sophistication to your look. Opt for classic black or brown leather gloves to complement your suit, or go bold with a pair in a deep jewel tone that matches your outfit.

Pro tip: If the weather forecast is looking extra chilly, look out for gloves lined with wool, cashmere, or fur. They’ll keep your hands warm while maintaining a polished look.

6. Winter-themed waistcoat and pocket square

If you’re planning an overtly winter-themed wedding, look out for a themed waistcoat and pocket square to really lean into the festive spirit. A waistcoat with subtle winter motifs like snowflakes, pine trees, reindeer, or even a subtle sparkle can add a fun yet elegant touch to your outfit. Pair it with a matching or coordinating pocket square to tie the whole look together.

For guests

7. Velvet midi with ankle boots

This look is a classic for a reason. The perfect blend of elegance and comfort, a velvet midi dress in a deep jewel tone like emerald green, navy, or plum feels so luxurious and cosy. The rich texture of velvet is perfect for winter, giving you that sophisticated vibe without feeling too over-the-top.

Pair it with some sleek ankle boots, which not only keep your feet warm but also add a stylish, modern twist to the outfit. Go for heeled boots in leather or suede to really take the look up a notch and add that extra bit of flair.

8. A healthy dose of sparkle

Whether it’s glitter, sequins, or some shimmering accessories, a little sparkle goes a long way at a winter wedding. You can add a bit of glam to your outfit with statement earrings, a sparkly clutch, or even a glittery belt to cinch in your waist. Don’t be afraid to have fun with it. After all, winter weddings are the perfect excuse to add a touch of magic to your look.

9. Statement tights

Statement tights are the icing on the cake for an already polished look. Depending on the style, they can add a pop of colour, a fun twist, or a bit of texture to your outfit. Think polka dots, lace patterns, or even a little shimmer.

They’re not only practical for keeping your legs warm, but also give your look that extra something special without going over the top.

Plan a magical winter wedding with Bridebook

Although you want to look fabulous, comfort is key when it comes to dressing for a winter wedding. It’s all about looking your best while simultaneously staying warm and feeling comfortable throughout the day.

Winter weddings often mean beautiful but chilly outdoor moments, so practical layers, cosy footwear, and stylish accessories are your best friends. Whether you’re a guest, one of the nearlyweds, or part of the wedding party, making sure you’re comfortable while still looking chic will help you fully enjoy the magical day without worrying about the cold.

Happy Planning!

Sophia Shafiee

Sophia is a passionate writer and editor and expert on all things wedding content related, with a First Class degree from the University of Oxford. She frequently shares her wedding advice and tips with leading UK publications on behalf of Bridebook.com, including Harper’s Bazaar, SheerLuxe and Porter Magazine.

Last updated: 21st Oct 2024