35 Festive Dresses to Wear to a Winter Wedding as a Guest

Dresses to wear to a winter wedding as a guest are like the gifts that keep on giving. They come in handy for a variety of events all season long, from watching your loved ones say "I do," to swapping gifts at your office or family holiday party and even toasting at midnight on New Year's Eve. The TLDR; You deserve to treat yourself to some new winter wedding guest outfits, and fortunately, you've come to the right place. Keep scrolling to browse our editor approved picks for the 2024–25 season, with options in every size range, then, check out some of our favorite wedding guest shoes to finish off your look with.

In this article:

• What to Look for in Cold Weather Wedding Guest Dresses
• The Best Dresses to Wear to a Winter Wedding as a Guest

What to Look for in Cold Weather Wedding Guest Dresses

Before you hit *add to cart*, it's essential to know what to look for in a dress to wear at a winter wedding. According to Kate Boswell, fFashion eEditor at The Knot, "Your winter wedding guest attire should not only fit your personal style, but it should also be able to withstand the colder weather." For that reason, she believes long-sleeve winter wedding guest dresses are always a safe bet. But don't think sleeveless looks are totally off the table. "When you learn the art of layering, you can make practically any dress work in the winter," says Boswell. A cozy wrap or shawl, for instance, can easily winterize your look if you're headed to an outdoor event, all the while keeping you warm, so consider investing in a cover up that you can take with you all season long.

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When it comes to colors, you can't go wrong with the classics. Jewel tones like ruby red and sapphire blue are beautiful options for winter wedding guest dresses. Winter also offers the perfect opportunity to reach for your favorite black dresses that might not have been in your heavy rotation throughout the summer. If you're looking for something a bit more unique, Boswell says: "Metallics like gold and silver have been trending in recent months, and they're showing no signs of slowing down as we head into winter." You might even decide to choose something sparkly that you can re-wear throughout all your holiday celebrations.

When browsing winter wedding guest dresses online, remember to keep the dress code of the event you're attending in mind. "Velvet dresses are an excellent choice for formal and black-tie affairs this time of year," says Boswell. "Their lustrous look makes them perfect for any upscale event." For a cocktail attire wedding, consider reaching for something that reflects the celebratory vibe of the season, like a sequined mini dress, for instance. For semi-formal and casual weddings in the winter, there are plenty of ways to repurpose your favorite knitwear pieces into wedding guest wear. For example, you could throw a knit shawl over a satin midi dress to add a little extra warmth. You could even dress up a sweater dress with sparkly tights and a pair of pumps.

The Best Dresses to Wear to a Winter Wedding as a Guest

You might think that shopping for winter dresses for wedding guests means having to make a sacrifice (opting for either warmth or style). We're here to tell you that that's simply not the case. When it comes to the best winter wedding guest dresses, you really can have it all. But don't take it from us. Keep scrolling to see for yourself.

Best Overall Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Lulus Dramatic Stunner Dress

Photo: Lulus

Step into the season of giving looking like the true gift that you are. This black velvet dress for winter wedding guests to consider features an oversized satin bow front and center (so there will be no confusion there). Pair it with a sleek up-do and a bold red lip and get ready to turn some heads.

Best December Wedding Guest Dress: Adrianna Papell Bow Front Crepe Gown

Photo: Adrianna Papell

We'll see your winter white and raise you this winter red. Whether you're headed to a holiday party or a wedding in December, this ruby-colored maxi dress makes an excellent attire option. It's made from thick crepe fabric, so you'll be set to take on the cold weather in style.

Best January Wedding Guest Dress: Showpo Tracy Mini Dress

Photo: Showpo

From watching the ball drop to watching your loved ones walk down the aisle, you're sure to get plenty of use out of this January wedding guest dress (which also makes a great New Year's Eve wedding guest dress, we might add). It features colorful sequins throughout, ensuring you'll shine at any occasion.

Best February Wedding Guest Dress: ASTR The Label Anora Dress

Photo: ASTR The Label

Florals for winter? Now that's actually groundbreaking. Seriously though, we'd rock this floral maxi dress any time of year. Its long sleeves and darker color scheme make it a perfect pick for fall and winter, while its subtle floral print makes it a totally acceptable option for spring and summer as well.

Best Outdoor Winter Wedding Guest Dress: RIHOAS Slip Midi Dress

Photo: RIHOAS

Rain or shine, you're sure to love this two-in-one guest winter wedding dress. It comes complete with a matching cardigan, which can easily be removed if the weather permits. Of course, if you're headed to an outdoor event, you might want to add a stylish wedding umbrella to your ensemble, just in case.

Best Affordable Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Lulus Majestic Attitude Dress

Photo: Lulus

One thing's for sure: You won't be getting the cold shoulder in this winter wedding guest dress. Its elegant asymmetric neckline–which features an attached cape–is sure to earn you plenty of compliments throughout the night. No one will believe that you paid less than $100 for it.

Best Splurge Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Saloni Camille Bows Dress

Photo: Tuckernuck

There's nothing like a sparkly bow to tie your look together (pun intended), and this black velvet midi dress just so happens to feature three of them. For that reason–and the fact that it's just oh-so adorable–we'd consider this warm winter wedding guest dress well worth the splurge.

Best Formal Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Reformation Oren Silk Dress

Photo: Reformation

Move over little black dress. This sexy red number is about to give you a run for your money. Made from luxuriously smooth 100% silk, and featuring a matching scarf, it's a standout pick for this season and beyond.

Best Winter Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dress: Jenny Yoo Rachel Dress

Photo: Jenny Yoo

This look is as classic as they come. It has a flattering square neckline, a streamlined column silhouette and a sexy side leg slit. Available in 13 winter-ready shades, you're sure to find one to fit the theme of your next event.

Best Winter Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress: Reformation Minara Velvet Dress

Photo: Reformation

Silk and velvet are both equally-elegant options when it comes to winter wedding guest gowns. Luckily, with this look you won't have to choose between them. Its strapless bodice, cut from lustrous silk, is met with a gathered skirt made from velvet. Talk about the best of both worlds.

Best Semi-Formal Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Park & Fifth Carlyle Dress

Photo: Park & Fifth

We have a good feeling you'll be reaching for this dress long after your next event. The timeless style features a figure-flattering column silhouette and a trendy off-the-shoulder neckline. It's perfect for pairing with heels, boots, and sneakers alike.

Best Casual Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Petal + Pup Nova Dress

Photo: Petal + Pup

This stylish sweater dress can be dressed up or down for a variety of different occasions. Pair it with suede booties and a leather clutch for a fall or winter wedding, or remove its waist tie and wear it as a duster over your favorite graphic tee and jeans.

Best Midi Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Mac Duggal Pleated Long-Sleeve Dress

Photo: Mac Duggal

You can't go wrong with red this time of year. Case point: This pleated satin maxi dress. It has long sleeves, a deep V-neckline and a mid-length silhouette. We'd round out the ensemble with nude-colored tights and a classic pair of pumps.

Best Maxi Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Reformation Donya Dress

Photo: Reformation

If you're looking to keep cozy at your next winter event, this is the dress for you. Not only is it made from ultra-plush velvet fabric, but it also features long sleeves and a full length skirt (which could easily conceal tights or leggings underneath if you wanted to layer up).

Best Mini Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Sachin & Babi Sai Dress

Photo: Sachin & Babi

This little black dress is ready for its dance floor debut. It has a sequin-adorned bodice, which is guaranteed to glisten under the event lights. It also has a trendy bubble-hem mini skirt, which will keep your legs free from restriction as you show off your moves.

Best Winter Wedding Guest Jumpsuit: NBD Donnie Jumpsuit

Photo: REVOLVE

Strut your way into winter in this stylish green jumpsuit. Its padded shoulders, plunging neckline and satin jacquard fabric offer a unique, fashion-forward look you're sure to love for a variety of occasions. Pair it with wedges for a winter wedding or with sneakers for everyday wear.

Best Maternity Wedding Guest Dress for Winter: PinkBlush Maternity Pleated Maxi Dress

Photo: PinkBlush Maternity

You'll look like the gem that you are while rocking this jewel-toned maternity wedding guest dress. Of course, its elegant emerald green color is just one of its many standout features. It also has a comfortable pleated silhouette and an elastic waistline to account for your growing bump.

Best Petite Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Dress

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

Metallics are another standout option when it comes to winter wedding dresses for guests. Of course, what makes this look stand out even more is the fact that it's available in standard, petite, and tall lengths. Pair it with a faux fur stole and you'll be *golden*.

Plus-Size Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

We've searched the internet high and low to find the best plus-size wedding guest dresses for winter. With options for every dress code and style (and even some in maternity and petite-plus sizing), we think there's a little something for everyone to love here.

Best Overall Plus-Size Winter Wedding Guest Dress: City Chic Lace Valencia Dress

Photo: City Chic

Here's a wedding guest winter dress you'll want to add to your rotation. The plus-size pick is made from a gorgeous floral lace fabric and features a figure-flattering mermaid silhouette. Available in a wide range of sizes and both black and red colorways, you can't go wrong.

Best Plus-Size December Wedding Guest Dress: Arula Christina Velvet Mini Dress

Photo: Arula

How cute would this red velvet mini dress look with some sparkly tights and a pair of pumps underneath? You can wear it to a December wedding this season, then again for all your holiday parties. Pair it with a warm winter coat and you'll be set.

Best Plus-Size January Wedding Guest Dress: Lane Bryant Embellished Velvet Shirred-Shoulder Jumpsuit

Photo: Lane Bryant

While it's not a dress, per se, we think you'll love this velvet jumpsuit for a January wedding. With long puff sleeves, wide legs and crystal-embellishments throughout, you'll definitely be starting the new year off in style.

Best Plus-Size February Wedding Guest Dress: Hutch Ruffle-Hem Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

Counting down the days till spring? Can't say we blame you. Luckily, this floral midi dress offers a sneak peak of the season. Don't worry though–because it's made from thick velvet fabric, it's still warm enough to wear all throughout winter.

Best Plus-Size Outdoor Winter Wedding Guest Dress: City Chic Jaylee Dress

Photo: City Chic

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so if you're headed to an outdoor wedding this season, be sure to come prepared. With long sleeves and a mock neck this dress is cozy on its own, but throw a shawl on top and you'll be ready for whatever the forecast may bring.

Best Plus-Size Affordable Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Bloomchic Wrap Sequin Dress

Photo: Bloomchic

Adorned in shimmery sequins, you'd think this festive midi dress was a total splurge. Well, what if we told you it actually costs less than $40? For that price tag you just might want to snag one in every color.

Best Plus-Size Splurge Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Reformation Oren Silk Dress Es

Photo: Reformation

You never need an excuse to treat yourself to a new dress, but just in case you were looking for one, we offer you this: This navy blue maxi dress is made from 100% silk and comes complete with a matching scarf. Now that's getting your money's worth.

Best Plus-Size Formal Winter Wedding Guest Dress: ELOQUII High Neck Column Gown

Photo: ELOQUII

You can dress up this classic red maxi dress with some statement-making accessories, or let its column silhouette do all the talking. Either way, we're sure it will be a hit at the next formal winter wedding on your calendar.

Best Plus-Size Winter Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dress: Mac Duggal Velvet Long Sleeve Gown

Photo: Mac Duggal

If you're hoping to earn yourself the title of 'best dressed guest', we have just the look for you. This velvet evening gown certainly commands attention. It has long puff sleeves, a gathered waistline and a thigh-high leg slit. Talk about showstopping.

Best Plus-Size Winter Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress: ASOS DESIGN Curve Slouchy Midi Dress

Photo: ASOS

When it comes to plus-size winter wedding guest dresses, this is one look you'll want to add to your wish list. Its fashion-forward silhouette features a slouchy asymmetric neckline and a relaxed waist. Oh, and did we mention it's under $70?

Best Plus-Size Semi-Formal Winter Wedding Guest Dress: ELOQUII Knot Front Pleated Skirt Dress

Photo: ELOQUII Knot Front Pleated Skirt Dress

We love how versatile this red pleated midi dress is. You could wear it with boots and a wool coat for a casual winter date night, or dress it up with heels and sparkly accessories for a wedding. Not to mention, it's also available in five other winter-ready shades.

Best Plus-Size Casual Winter Wedding Guest Dress: ASOS LUXE Curve Tulle Baby Doll Dress

Photo: ASOS

Embrace the pearlcore trend head on with this iridescent pearl-adorned mini. It has sheer puff sleeves and a layered tulle skirt–perfect for those with a 'more is more' mentality. We'd pair it with white ballet flats and a hair bow for a casual dress code wedding this winter.

Best Plus-Size Midi Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Hutch Pleated Maxi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

Understated is never overrated, and this plus-size winter wedding guest proves it. Its simple silhouette features many noteworthy details–like a folded off-the-shoulder neckline and a breezy pleated skirt (which is perfect for dancing in, BTW).

Best Plus-Size Maxi Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Mac Duggal Puff Sleeve A-Line Gown

Photo: Mac Duggal

Some people wonder if you can wear red to a wedding. Well, with a dress that looks this good, we think it would be rude not to! In all seriousness, this maroon maxi dress checks off all our boxes and then some where winter wedding attire is concerned.

Best Plus-Size Mini Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Arula Stassia Bow Dress

Photo: Arula

Bows aren't limited to just your holiday gifts this season. Embrace them as part of your wedding guest attire with this charming mini. Its two-tone color scheme makes it a standout option for the season, but it's also available in emerald green if that's more your style.

Best Plus-Size Maternity Wedding Guest Dress for Winter: PinkBlush Maternity Red Velvet Tiered Maternity Plus Midi Dress

Photo: PinkBlush Maternity

This tiered velvet midi dress was uniquely designed to be worn throughout all stages of pregnancy and beyond. It's equal parts comfortable and classy, making it ideal for a variety of different wedding dress codes and venues.

Best Petite Plus Winter Wedding Guest Dress: Lane Bryant Lurex Shimmer Dress

Photo: Lane Bryant

Finding a wedding guest dress you love that's available in petite-plus sizing is certainly not an easy task. Finding one that's also affordable? Forget about it. Well, fortunately for you, we've done the impossible. This floral midi dress is not only available in two different lengths, but it's also under $100.