25 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses
Wondering how to dress for a winter wedding? From sparkles and satin to moody florals and chic silhouettes, these statement styles are perfect for winter weddings
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It can be hard to know what to wear for a winter wedding. Not only do you have to consider the sudden drop in temperature (meaning your go-to summer slip dress and sandals is probably out of the question) but also the type of wedding you’re going to – whether its black tie, smart-casual, Christmas themed or a different dress code entirely.
That’s why we’ve pulled together our edit of the very best winter wedding dresses for guests, all of which are practical, super versatile and perfect for festive occasions beyond the big day, too.
From velvet and satin fabrics to glitzy embellishments and even a winter-ready take on the slip, we've got an array of standout dresses that'll work for every wedding guest style and budget.
The Best Dresses to Wear to a Winter Wedding
Glam midi dresses, wedding guest dresses with long sleeves, short dresses, sparkly dresses – there’s a winter wedding guest look in this roundup for you. Let the celebrations begin!
1. Andrea Red Shirred Dress – KITRI
The best way to inject a bold pop of colour into your winter wedding guest wardrobe? This fiery red number from KITRI. The blazing colour is tempered with adjustable black velvet straps for a touch of winter luxe, while the shirred panelling and soft ruching at the bust makes it both flattering and comfortable.
- Sizing: 6-16
- Expert take: Colour-rich pieces like this have real presence – so let this dress shine with understated black heels and subtle accessories.
2. Racquel Lurex Maxi Dress – Rixo
Wedding guest dresses for December call for a touch of sparkle. Shine under the disco lights in this stunning cobalt-blue dress flecked with gold lurex from Rixo. The rich specks of glimmering gold combined with the lightweight, flowing skirt make this the perfect winter dress to take you from ceremony to dance floor.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: Due to the neat but flattering fit, the brand does suggest sizing up on this one, particularly if you’re between sizes.
3. Curve High Neck Satin Contrast Midaxi Dress – ASOS Design
You can always rely on ASOS for purse-friendly fashion for any kind of wedding, and this navy-coloured maxi dress would look just as good at a black tie do as it would for a chic registry office ceremony. Finish the look with metallic accessories (warm gold or icy silver) and an up do to show off that gorgeous high neck.
- Sizing: 18-30
- Expert take: We especially love the contrast detail on this dress; the top half offers structure with its cute cap sleeves while the shimmering satin skirt moves beautifully as you do.
4. Belle Bow Sleeve Velvet Midi Dress – Monsoon
Another navy-blue number, this time in velvet from Monsoon. Silky, plush and opulent, velvet and occasionwear undoubtedly go hand in hand – and if there’s one season synonymous with a sense of occasion and sartorial celebration, it’s winter.
- Sizing: 8-24
- Expert take: Let the diamanté-trimmed bows on the sleeves do the talking and pair this dress with silver kitten heels and subtle accessories for a winter wedding guest look that oozes romance.
5. Matilda Pink Floral Velvet Maxi Dress – Ro&Zo
Florals in winter? Of course you can! In fact, embracing floral prints in the drearier months is the perfect way to keep your wardrobe cheerful while offsetting winter’s inevitable darkness. We adore the deluxe detail on this bias-cut velvet dress from Ro&Zo, with its flattering cowl neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps.
- Sizing: 6-18
- Expert take: Team this stunning style with chic black accessories and, when the temperature dips, throw on an oversized blazer to take you seamlessly from morning to midnight.
6. Autograph Leather and Lace Detail Midi Slip Dress – Marks & Spencer
Punk and pretty collide with this midi slip dress from Marks & Spencer. We love how the soft black filigree lace detail softens the hard glamour of the moss-green leather skirt. A blend of elegance and attitude that’s perfect for wintry occasions – and an investment piece you’ll wear time and time again.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: The spaghetti straps on this dress are adjustable for the perfect fit.
7. Rose Fluted Sleeve Maxi Dress – Ada Dakin
London-based designer Sophie Dakin (Ada Dakin was her grandmother's name) uses curated prints and recycled fabrics to flip classic maxi and mini dresses into the most beautiful, feminine silhouettes. The result? Super pretty dresses – all of which are handmade to order. We love this moody floral number for a winter wedding, with its super sexy slit and pretty fluted sleeves.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: For an off-duty look, give the feminine florals extra bite with a warm pair of lace-up boots. You can also buy a long-sleeved version of this dress.
8. Cilla Floral Shirt Midaxi Dress – Phase Eight
A great shirt dress is like that friend who never forgets a birthday or thank-you card – unfailingly reliable. With its pretty rose print, puff sleeves and cinched waist, this divine midaxi style from Phase Eight is so easy to throw on for a put-together look with minimal effort. Pair with black or red satin heels for extra glam.
- Sizing: 6-26
- Expert take: This dress has been crafted from recycled fibres, giving it plenty of movement and a slight sheen that makes it feel more than occasion-worthy.
9. Truly Remarkable Flocked Jersey Dress – Joe Browns
Purple boasts all the delicacy of its candy-coloured sister shade pink, without the saccharine sweetness, making it a chic and stylish choice for a winter wedding guest dress. This maxi style from Joe Browns is crafted from the softest flocked jersey, delivers a super flattering fit and looks great with a cute pair of silver ankle boots or sandals.
- Sizing: 6-18
- Expert take: This winter-friendly dress is also available in petite sizes.
10. Satin Slip Midi Dress – Oliver Bonas
Oliver Bonas has the right idea when it comes to prolonging the shelf life of its summer dresses. When not worn for a winter wedding or special occasion, this versatile satin slip can be layered with chunky knits and denim until Christmas and beyond.
- Sizing: 6-18
- Expert take: The abstract print is unlike anything else we’ve spotted on the high street right now and will likely cover up a multitude of (spill-related) sins. Bag it before it sells out!
11. AND/OR Nicol Satin Dress in Gold – John Lewis
Super easy midi dresses are a wardrobe staple, and we’ll be turning to this one from John Lewis on repeat. It’s crafted from a lightweight, bias-cut satin fabric and we love the flared cuffs – pair with heeled ankle boots or sandals for winter wedding glam.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: This also comes in classic black, but the caramel-hued gold looks gorgeous against all skin tones.
12. Adele Dress in Evening Lily – Christy Lynn
All florals, flounces and fetching shades, the dresses from Christy Lynn are a masterclass in romance. The rich jewel tones, drop-waist skirt and oversized silhouette of the Adele dress make it perfect for city and countryside celebrations alike. It’s effortless glamour made easy.
- Sizing: XS-XL
- Expert take: “I’d style this with an open toe mule and sparkly accessory to add some fun to the look,” suggests designer Christy Lynn Lee.
13. Mavis Midi Dress – Rixo
For the perfect party dress reimagined, set your sights on this divine midi from Rixo – perfect for a glitzy wedding celebration. The lightweight crepe de chine fabric and elegant empire waist and bias cut make this so easy to wear, yet head-turningly striking – especially under the lights of the dance floor.
- Sizing: 6-26
- Expert take: This dress is also available in petite.
14. Win Jersey Cape Sleeve Tunic Dress – Monsoon
Another gorgeous winter wedding contender from Monsoon is this jewel-toned cape sleeve tunic dress in teal. Adorned with a satin trim on the hem and sleeves for an extra-luxe finish, this is a winter-ready twist on the mini that you’ll pull out for party season year after year.
- Sizing: 8-26
- Expert take: If you can’t quite bring yourself to brave the bare legs, this will look just as chic with a pair of opaque tights.
15. Micah Satin Drape Tuck Midi Dress – Reiss
Sumptuous green satin is a no-brainer for winter and the festive season, and this draped midi dress from Reiss ticks all the boxes for us. Available in both petite and regular lengths, and also in a luxurious burgundy hue, this is winter wedding guest dress perfection.
- Sizing: 4-18
- Expert take: If you’re playing a more important role, we also think this would make a great green bridesmaid dress!
16. Curve Tie Back Chevron Chiffon Midi Dress – ASOS Design
A dream winter wedding guest dress, yes, but also a style staple that'll see you through to spring and beyond – we simply can't get enough of this lightweight dress from ASOS. Flared sleeves bring the drama and the chevron print adds a kind of cool elegance.
- Sizing: 18-30
- Expert take: Not a fan of the burgundy? This dress is also available in pine green, navy, cobalt, black and lilac – some of which are currently on sale. We'll take one of each please…
17. Dusk V-Neck Velvet Mini Dress – Roman Originals
Looking for short dresses to wear to a winter wedding as a guest? Whether you pair this velvet mini from Roman Originals with tights or brave it with bare legs, it’ll look divine. The sumptuous fabric and long gathered sleeves will keep you warm anyway, right?
- Sizing: 8-18
- Expert take: If comfort is a priority, this dress has it in spades. The tiered body is flattering but breathable and there’s a tie detail at the back for the perfect fit.
18. Isabella Floral Print Corsage Trim Maxi Dress – Ro&Zo
Swap summer-inspired ditsy floral prints for a look that's big, bold and dramatic like the blooms on this striking Ro&Zo dress. The floaty silhouette and halter neckline make this dress perfect for a black-tie wedding – just as shoulders make a big return as fashion’s favourite erogenous zone.
- Sizing: 6-18
- Expert take: The corsage is removable – perfect for switching up your look from day to night.
19. Jordine Floral Print Maxi Dress – Phase Eight
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, Phase Eight is one of the most reliable – and size inclusive – brands on the high street when it comes to winter wedding looks for guests. The black and ivory Jordine maxi dress is available in both regular and petite lengths, and we especially love it for the semi-sheer cap sleeves and flowing tiered skirt.
- Sizing: 6-26
- Expert take: Keep the look chic with black and metallic accessories or inject a fun pop of colour with bright, bold heels.
20. Talitha Black Star Lurex Knit Dress – KITRI
Fringing is having a moment and this lurex knit dress from KITRI, with its cute golden star print, is an easy entry point. The subtle shimmer makes this a perfect Christmas party dress, too – just saying!
- Sizing: XS-L
- Expert take: This dress also comes in a gorgeous pastel-coloured print that’d work brilliantly for spring weddings. Plus, the wide straps are bra-friendly – hurrah!
21. Jalise Navy Floral Neckline Maxi Dress – Azazie
We love this maxi dress style from Azazie because of its thoughtful design details. The pretty floral embroidery on the neckline and straps, sweet-spot length and lined bodice and cups all combine to make this look and feel much more expensive than it is.
- Sizing: 4-34
- Expert take: We especially love this company for its inclusive size range, but if you’re looking for a more personalised fit, note that custom sizing is also available.
22. Plus Asymmetric Drape Wrap Midi Dress – River Island
River Island has wedding outfits for winter wedding guests aplenty, but for a classic-cut dress with a modern twist, we love this more formal, off-the-shoulder style, which just seems to drape and fold in all the right places. Plus, the chic green hue will brighten up even the greyest of days.
- Sizing: 20-26
- Expert take: Order this dress in either plus or petite sizes for the perfect fit.
23. Zora Linen-Blend Balloon Sleeve Midi Dress – Nobody’s Child
As functional as it is fashionable, the Zora linen-blend dress from Nobody’s Child is always a safe investment, no matter which colour or print you choose. This vibrant red hue is perfect for a winter wedding and features an open square back that’s designed to sit just above the bra line.
- Sizing: 4-18
- Expert take: We love the Zora’s versatility; it’s so easy to style up or down. Team with trainers for day and statement heels and clutch bag for weddings and evening occasions.
24. Felicity Dress in Midnight Coast – Christy Lynn
A floral vision in layers of featherlight silk chiffon, Christy Lynn’s Felicity gown is a wardrobe investment for sure, but it’ll fast become your all-season event staple.
- Sizing: XS-XL
- Expert take: This floaty style comes with a self-tie belt that you can use to create a nipped-in waist for added definition.
25. Toria Fringe Jersey Dress – Monsoon
Yes, you can wear a black dress to a winter wedding, especially when it looks this good. Made from a soft jersey fabric with flirty tassels on the sleeve and the asymmetrical dipped skirt, this dress from Monsoon is definitely one to be written into your winter fashion script.
- Sizing: 8-24
- Expert take: Forgo the urge to wear too much jewellery and keep hair and make-up simple: the fringing on this dress provides all the oomph you’ll need.
How to Dress for a Winter Wedding?
Consider the dress code. Has the couple mentioned a specific theme or colour scheme on the wedding invitation that you might need to adhere to? Some may specify ‘cocktail attire’ or ‘black tie’, while others stick to the more common (but sometimes confusing) ‘smart-casual’.
If you’re still unsure, check out our guide to wedding dress codes.
Secondly, it goes without saying, but think practically and be prepared for all kinds of winter weather – wind, rain and even snow! Even if the wedding will largely take place inside, it’s likely you’ll be outside for part of it, whether that’s capturing the confetti shot or simply moving from venue to venue.
What is the Best Winter Wedding Guest Dress?
As long as you are warm, can eat and dance and feel like your very best self in it, there really are no rules when it comes to the best winter wedding guest dresses to wear, unless the couple has specified a particular dress code, of course.
Even if the dress you plan on wearing doesn’t scream ‘winter wedding’, you can still play around with your accessories and cover-up of choice to make it more suited to a cold-weather celebration.
“Winter weddings are the perfect opportunity to play with luxurious fabrics, such as velvet, and layer over feminine silk dresses,” says Rixo co-founder Orlagh McCloskey. Think cute woven jackets and embellished velvet boleros.
“Our georgette neck scarves are a great addition for a little extra coverage, too, while still keeping the outfit occasionwear,” she adds.
"I especially love a fall colour palette using gold satin accents and rich jewel tones," adds US-based designer Christy Lynn Lee. "This year's fall collection is especially exciting for us – we've developed a range of embroidered and hand-painted artworks which are perfect for winter wedding season."
Not quite found the perfect ‘fit? Take a look at our roundup of the best winter wedding coats and coat dresses – they’re perfect for an all-in-one look.
