We're Breaking Down Exactly What to Wear to a Winter Wedding This Year

Sure, the weather may be getting colder, but wedding season might just be heating up for you. If your inbox is full of save-the-dates and wedding invites for this upcoming season, you're probably wondering what to wear to a winter wedding as a guest. Of course, between holiday parties and (seemingly endless) shopping trips, it can be hard to make time to find the right look. Not to worry. That's where we come in. As your expert source for all things wedding-related, we're here to help you take on the season in style. Keep scrolling for expert attire advice, plus shoppable winter wedding guest dress and suiting options you're sure to love.

In this article:

• What to Wear to a Winter Wedding as a Guest
• Wedding Outfits for Winter Wedding Guests
• Where to Buy Clothes for a Winter Wedding

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding as a Guest

So, you're wondering what to wear to a wedding as a guest this winter. We chatted with influencer and wedding style expert Maria Marzullo for the answer.

The wedding dress code of the event you're attending should be the main factor used to determine your attire (more on that later), but you'll also want to consider the weather this time of year. Even if the wedding isn't taking place outdoors, chances are, you'll want a look with a bit more coverage. Luckily, winter offers the perfect opportunity to break out your dresses and suits made from heavier fabrics, like crepe, velvet and corduroy. As for styles, you can't go wrong with long-sleeve wedding guest dresses. For suiting, you might even consider swapping out your classic button-down with a knit sweater.

When it comes to colors, Marzullo believes it's best to keep things classic. Navy blue and black are foolproof picks for events all winter long. However, if you did want to stand out from the crowd, you could always lean into jewel tones, like ruby red or emerald green. According to Marzullo, neons are a big no-go for winter. "No one wants a neon pink or bright orange dress at their winter wedding." Save those for summer. Of course, if you did want to sport a look in a lighter shade, Marzullo recommends opting for a "light snowflake blue" instead.

When coordinating winter wedding outfits, layering is key–especially if all or part of the event will be taking place outdoors. Come prepared for a variety of weather scenarios (trust us, you won't want to leave your umbrella at home). Marzullo's favorite accessory to layer over a winter wedding guest dress? A cozy shawl, of course. "They are so chic, but also super easy to take off once you start dancing at the reception". As for suiting, she recommends thinking outside the box when it comes to your coat. While a herringbone tweed blazer might feel out of place at a summer event, it will fit right in during the winter. Plus, when layered over a long-sleeved dress shirt, it will be much warmer than your classic suit jacket.

Accessories can also help make your look winter-ready. "Whether that be a velvet bag for the women, a seasonal loafer for the men, or even a certain makeup look, how you dress up your look can help make it more winter appropriate."

Formal Attire for Winter Wedding Guests

Winter weddings that request black-tie or formal wedding attire leave you with a daunting task: Finding an outfit that's equal parts fashion and function. Enter: Velvet fabrics. Not only are dresses and suits made from velvet much cozier than your classic options, they also look incredibly elegant thanks to the way they shine under light. You can opt for a full velvet evening gown, or top off a satin slip with a velvet stole (these fabrics look great together, BTW). As for suiting, we love pairing jewel-toned velvet jackets with classic black slacks.

Winter Cocktail Attire for Wedding Guests

A cocktail attire wedding gives you the perfect chance to recycle some of your favorite holiday party looks. That's right—That festive jumpsuit or sequined mini dress you've been keeping in your closet can have a second chance to shine. Cocktail attire is a bit less rigid than other dress codes, so don't be afraid to lean into vibrant colors and prints here. Like we mentioned above, jewel tones were practically made for winter. You might also want to experiment with metallics (gold and silver are totally on-trend this season).

Semi-Formal Winter Attire for Wedding Guests

When it comes to semi-formal attire weddings, there are a few tried-and-true looks you might consider (ie: satin midi dresses and blue or black suits). However, these aren't your only options this time of year. You might consider stepping up your seasonal attire with some accessories. For instance, you can style a floral or satin midi dress for winter by throwing a faux fur stole on top. For suiting, add in a festive tie or pocket square. An emerald green or sapphire blue accessory is sure to tie your seasonal ensemble together.

Casual Winter Wedding Attire for Guests

Casual wedding attire for a winter wedding gives you a bit more flexibility. That means you can totally weave some of your favorite pieces of everyday wear into your look. Suede booties and felt hats, for example, can give your look a seasonal touch, while still staying true to the dress code. Don't be afraid to reach for your knitwear pieces either. A sweater dress or a turtleneck with slacks both make great casual winter wedding attire options.

Wedding Outfits for Winter Wedding Guests

Ready to get inspired? Here's a few of our favorite winter wedding guest outfits broken down by month, with options available to shop with the click of a button.

Outfits for December Wedding Guests

With holiday season right around the corner, you might be eager to reach for your most festive attire options (think sequins, metallics, velvet and everything in between), but are these looks appropriate to wear as winter wedding guest outfits? Our verdict: Absolutely! As long as the wedding invite doesn't outline any ultra-specific attire guidelines, feel free to rock your favorite seasonal ensemble. A velvet evening gown is great for a more formal dress code, while a sparkly mini could work for a cocktail or semi-formal event. As for colors, shades of black, navy and red work well. But jewel tones don't have to be limited to just your attire. December is also the perfect time to accessorize to the max, so go ahead and break out those ruby or emerald earrings.

Photo: Jenny Yoo

Photo: Olive & Piper

Photo: Dolce Vita

Photo: Banana Republic

Photo: Charles Tyrwhitt

What to Wear to a January Wedding

New year, new you, right? Start the year off strong with a stylish January wedding guest outfit. You can totally opt for something unique, like a wide-leg jumpsuit, or keep things classic with a satin slip. No matter what you decide on, be sure that it will keep you warm, since January is the coldest month in most cities. The good news is that there are plenty of discreet ways to layer your look. If you're planning on wearing a dress, go for a floor length number, so you can secretly sport fleece tights underneath. If you're wearing a suit, consider adding an additional long-sleeve under your dress shirt.

Photo: ELOQUII

Photo: REVOLVE

Photo: Lulus

Photo: Suitsupply

Photo: Theory

Photo: Beckett Simonon

February Wedding Guest Outfits

Our advice on what to wear to a February wedding varies depending on the location of the event you're attending. Some cities might be experiencing an early spring, while others may be blanketed in snow. Be sure to do a bit of research before finalizing your outfit plans. Whether you're wondering what to wear to an outdoor winter wedding, or one indoors, you should come prepared with outerwear. Try pairing a knit sweater with a plaid suit (it will look stylish whether you choose to wear it with or without the jacket). For dresses, a structured wool coat will elevate your look, plus, it can easily be removed if the weather doesn't require it.

Photo: ASTR The Label

Photo: Lulus

Photo: Quince

Photo: Cole Hann

Photo: Banana Republic

Photo: Morjas

Where to Buy Clothes for a Winter Wedding

Petal + Pup

Petal + Pup is one of our go-to places to shop wedding guest attire year round. Their styles range from classic satin midi dresses to festive floral frocks, and everything in between. Of course, when it comes to winter wedding guest styles, there's no shortage of options either. On their site you'll find plenty of cozy knit dresses and accessories. Plus, you can use our code "PETALXKNOT" for 15% off your order.

Nuuly

If you live somewhere with a mild winter, you might not get much use out of your winter wedding guest attire after the event is over. Enter: Nuuly. With so many options available to rent online, you won't have to worry about excess clothes taking up precious space in your closet. You can rent all your wedding guest attire essentials from Nuuly from one convenient price. Better yet? You'll receive $20 off your first month when you use the code "THEKNOT20" at checkout.

Banana Republic

It's no mystery why Banana Republic is a go-to for wedding guest attire. They carry outfit essentials for any season. In addition to a variety of guest dresses and suits, you'll also find plenty of outerwear options on their site. Not to mention, they also have shoes and accessories, making them the perfect one-stop-shop for all your wedding guest wardrobe needs.

Todd Snyder

If you want to stand out this season, Todd Snyer has you covered. Their selection of on-trend options includes plenty of cozy picks for winter. Their knitwear is particularly popular amongst fans of the brand. We love the versatility that their pieces offer. Trust us when we say you'll be loving your Todd Snyder looks long after the wedding.