15 Chic Bridal Shawls to Keep You Cozy on Your Big Day

You won't be getting the cold shoulder in one of these stylish accessories.

Bride wearing faux fur coverup at winter wedding with groom

Photo: READYLUCK

Updated Nov 11, 2024

Even if you're planning an indoor wedding in the winter, you'll likely spend a good amount of time outdoors (photo ops anyone?). The good news, however, is that with a stylish bridal shawl or wrap, you won't have to sacrifice style for comfort. Seriously, cold shoulders are a thing of the past thanks to these trendy bridal accessories. From faux fur stoles to beaded tulle wraps, there are plenty of simple (yet functional) ways to make your winter wedding dress more weather-appropriate. Not to mention, they'll also look really good.

To help you complete your bridal look, we've rounded up our favorite wedding shawls, wraps, and pashminas that'll keep you warm on your big day. We're also sharing expert advice on how to best style one for your wedding. Keep scrolling to check out our shoppable picks and we're sure you'll get *wrapped up* in this bridal trend (pun intended).

In this article:

Do I Need a Bridal Shawl for My Winter Wedding?
How to Choose a Wedding Dress Shawl
How to Wear Bridal Shawls and Wraps

Do I Need a Bridal Shawl for My Winter Wedding?

The short answer? No. Cold-weather accessories, like wedding shawls, are totally optional, even if your nuptials are taking place in the winter. That being said, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to incorporate one into your wedding wardrobe. Just like wedding jackets, they not only provide shoulder coverage and warmth for cold-weather functions, but they also make for a chic accessory that you can easily take on and off throughout the day (hello versatility). Plus, wedding dress shawls can also help transition your dress across seasons. If the forecast for your wedding date unexpectedly changes, and you're not wearing a long-sleeve wedding dress, there's no need to fret. All you need is a cozy coverup to make your gown work for the weather. And, with so many styles available, it's easy to find one that complements your winter wedding colors and vibe.

The Best Wedding Shawl and Wrap Picks for Every Style

Don't let bad weather ruin the vibe. Avoid a fashion faux pas on your big day and come prepared with a stylish wedding wrap. Whether you're planning an outdoor event, or simply love to accessorize, there are plenty of cozy options to complement your bridal fit. Lucky for you, we've rounded up 15 of the best shoppable options below.

Sheer Bridal Shawl Wrap

Here's a look you'll love long after you say 'I do'. This simple sheer pashmina is a classic way to top off any wedding day or date night look. It's made from lightweight wool and comes in two classic colors: Ivory and beige.

$48 | Anthropologie

White Bridal Capelet

Planning a church ceremony? This structured wedding capelet is the perfect way to add a touch of modesty to your look. Not to mention it's oh-so cute. You can wear it on top of your strapless or sleeveless gown during the ceremony, then take it off when it's time to party.

$99 | Cocomelody

Ivory Faux Fur Bridal Shawl

Trust us: You won't mind posing for outdoor pictures when you've got this faux fur wrap to keep you warm (winter brides, you can thank us later). It features a hook-and-eye clasp at the front, allowing you to keep your hands free for holding your bouquet.

$98 | Anthropologie

Simple Wedding Shawl

If you're looking for a wedding shawl or wrap to have on hand just in case, we think this is the perfect choice. It's simple enough that it won't alter the overall look of your wedding ensemble. Plus, it's fully sheer, so it will allow the intricate details of your gown underneath to shine through.

$32 | Lace & Favour

Lace Wedding Shawl

How about a look that will take you back in time? The floral lace design on this bridal shawl is sure to add the perfect vintage touch to your bridal ensemble. Better yet? It's available in a wide range of sizes and costs less than $50.

$49 | Azazie

Pearl-Embellished Wedding Dress Topper

If you're looking to balance out your simple wedding dress with some not-so-simple accessories, this pearl-embellished wedding gown topper is calling your name. It can be worn just like a shirt (and it even has full-length sleeves that extend into gloves).

$49 | Etsy

Structured Mikado Shawl for Bride

This structured Mikado bridal shawl is perfect for nearlyweds looking to add an additional layer to their look (literally). Just as its name implies, the "Hug Shawl" contours you in all the right ways. It wraps around your arms and back for a unique bridal look.

$195 | Sachin & Babi

Sheer Beaded Bridal Shawl

Sometimes, a subtle touch of glam is all you need to complete your wedding day look. We think this sheer beaded shawl is sure to do just the trick. It features a whimsical puff-sleeved design with sequins and beading throughout.

$251 | Watters Designs

Cozy Knit Wedding Dress Wrap

Thanks to its bright white color, this knit wrap will complement virtually any wedding gown. But don't think your wedding day is the only chance you'll get to wear it. The classic accessory can be re-worn for a number of cold-weather occasions, or even lounging around at home.

$84 | Lace & Favour

Feathered Mock Neck Capelet

Keep cozy in this stylish mock neck accessory. Adorned in lush faux feathers, it's a fashion forward way to add texture to your wedding day look. Buttons on the back make it easy to remove to switch up your look throughout the night.

$309 | Unreal Fur

Long Chiffon Wedding Gown Shawl

If you're forgoing a wedding veil on your big day but still love the look of a long, dramatic train, consider this draped chiffon shawl. It covers the bust and arms from the front, but extends all the way into a chapel-length train in the back. It's perfect for photo ops as you're walking down the aisle.

$199 | Etsy

Sequined Wedding Shawl for Bride

So, you're a bride looking to stand out. We think you'll love this eye-catching accessory made from delicate lace and adorned in sequined fringe. Pair it with an embellished wedding gown for the ultimate maximalist bridal vibe.

$99 | Cocomelody

Affordable Winter Wedding Shawl

Calling all brides on a budget. At under $40, this faux fur shawl offers maximum bridal glam for a minimum cost. It comes in three different colors (ivory, brown and blush), and considering its price tag, you just might want to snag all three.

$38 | Lulus

Silk Tulle Scarf for Brides

This whimsical silk tulle accessory can be worn as a scarf during the ceremony, and then as a wrap during the reception. Because really, who doesn't love options? It's made from luxuriously soft silk tulle fabric and comes in a variety of colors and lengths.

$499 | Hushed Commotion

Sheer Shawl for Wedding Dress

Sometimes, simple accessories make the biggest statement. This sheer bridal shawl with puff sleeves is certainly a testament to that. Its streamlined design offers an easy way to add sleeves to your look without compromising its overall style.

$151 | Watters Designs

How to Choose a Wedding Dress Shawl

Now that you've gotten your fair share of wedding inspo for a shawl, you might be wondering how to choose the option that's right for you. When shopping for bridal shawls and wraps, here's a few key things to consider:

Consider the weather: The forecast on your big day should be one of the biggest factors used to determine what sort of bridal wrap you should choose. If all you're expecting is a slight drop in temperature in the evening, a sheer shawl should do the trick. However, if snow is a foreseeable option, you might want to go with something that offers a bit more warmth, like a faux fur stole or knit pashmina.
Pay attention to the color: Just like wedding gowns, wedding wraps come in a variety of different shades of white, including ivory, off-white and true white, just to name a few. To ensure your dress and accessories don't clash, be sure to choose a color that matches your gown, or complements it well. Pro tip: Bring a swatch of your gown's fabric along when shopping for wedding shawls so you can compare colors.
Try it on with your dress: Don't wait for your wedding day to see your outfit vision come to life. Be sure to try on your wedding dress with all the accessories you're considering–including your shawl–prior to the big day. That way, you can be sure you like the way they look against your dress silhouette and neckline, and can make any necessary adjustments.

How to Wear Bridal Shawls and Wraps

If you're wondering how to wear a wedding shawl or bridal wrap, we've got you covered (literally). To wear a shawl, drape it over your shoulders and the back of your neck, then pull the ends together in the front to keep it from moving. Worried about it falling off? Secure the shawl with safety pins or let it drape over your outfit if you're planning to remove it throughout the evening. Meanwhile, a bridal wrap, shrug, and capelet usually sit on the shoulders, but it typically depends on the style and design of the accessory. When in doubt, read the product description and use the model photo for guidance on how to wear it.