There’s something undeniably romantic about a winter wedding – candlelight, velvet ribbons, the promise of warmth as you come in from a scenic frost-covered landscape. But if you’re a guest, it also presents a sartorial puzzle. How do you look glamorous without spending the entire ceremony shivering? The trick is to combine comfort and elegance, balancing seasonal fabrics, clever layering, and a touch of drama. Read on for a few practical ways to stay stylish and enjoy the ceremony while keeping the cold at bay.
Velvet, wool, silk: Fabrics that fend off the chill
Winter weddings call for substance – this means clothes made out of fabrics that hold their shape and give a sense of weight and presence. Think velvet, wool blends, and heavier silks that drape beautifully while keeping you warm at the same time. You can wear any style or even season of women’s dresses as long as you layer artfully: a slip dress under a tailored jacket, or a fine knit beneath a structured gown let you balance elegance with warmth.
Stylish outerwear: Make your coat part of the outfit
The coat you choose can define the entire outfit. A sleek camel coat, a swingy cape, or a faux-fur wrap can feel as deliberate and polished as the dress beneath. Opt for tailored lines and quality textures – something that photographs as well outdoors as it feels indoors.
Footwear considerations for icy pavements
Heels may look the part, but when it comes to footwear, practicality matters when temperatures drop. If you’ll be walking across stone paths or snowy car parks, ankle boots with a block heel are both stable and chic. Patent leather or suede in rich tones (such as oxblood, deep navy, or forest green) will add a subtle seasonal edge.
Layers, gloves, sparkle: Accessorise for warmth and style
Winter accessories have a dual purpose – protection and polish. A cashmere scarf draped elegantly, long gloves peeking from under coat sleeves, a brooch catching the light – these small choices will make your ensemble feel complete without overdoing it.
Makeup and hairdos that last
Low humidity and cold winds can test even the most carefully applied makeup. Focus on hydration and longevity: a creamy foundation, a hint of highlighter, and lips softened with balm before colour. And keep in mind that your hair will behave differently in the cold air, so try a softly pinned updo or a sleek ponytail that won’t collapse in damp weather.
Jewel tones and winter light: Hues to suit the season
Winter is all about richer tones – emerald, sapphire, burgundy – that will catch the candlelight. Metallics and deep neutrals also work well for darker evenings. A touch of shimmer in your fabric or accessories will beautifully echo the frost outside without looking overdone.
Winter wedding dressing: Elegant, cosy, confident
The most memorable winter wedding looks are the ones that look and feel effortless because you chose them with intention. Dress for warmth, layer with imagination, and, most of all, don’t be afraid of a little bit of theatricality.
END