- Weddings
- Fashion
- Wedding Dresses
Several of these options will work for your holiday parties, too.
By
Heather Bien
Heather Bien
Heather Bien is a writer experience contributing to some of the industry's top lifestyle, design, and wedding websites. She's covered event planning ideas and tips, weddings both traditional and eclectic, and she brings her love and knowledge of art history and design to every celebration she covers.
Editorial Guidelines
and
Alexandra Kelly
Alexandra Kelly
Alex is the senior home editor for Martha Stewart. She has over 10 years of experience producing digital content in the home and lifestyle space, ranging from cleaning and organizing to etiquette and home design.
Editorial Guidelines
Updated on September 20, 2023 01:53PM EDT
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.
Most guests take one of two approaches to winter wedding attire. The first involves donning that summer dress that could pass as cold-weather appropriate, especially if you add a cardigan and tights. The second means panicking (what even passes as winter-ready guest attire anyway?) as you sort through your closest or frantically shop online (will your pick get there in time?).
While neither approach is really wrong, there are much better ways to go about choosing a dress to wear to a winter wedding. In fact, we're of the firm belief that dressing for an end-of-year fête doesn't have to be the slightest bit stressful. The season is packed with so many rich textures and patterns—like velvet and winter floral—so you have plenty of choices as you decide what to wear.
To kick off the closet search or shopping spree, we've rounded up a few of our favorite of-the-moment looks that you can shop right now.
6 Things Guests Should Never Wear to a Wedding
01of 15
Lulus Love You So Burgundy Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
Romantic and flowy, this chiffon maxi dress has a gorgeous V-neck neckline as well as back, and a flirty thigh-high side slit. It's the perfect winter wedding guest dress that can take you into the holiday season as well.
02of 15
Betsey and Adam Cape Sleeve Crepe Sheath Dress
Go for the drama with this chic, caped co*cktail dress. While it's available in three different colors, the black version is the little black dress we didn't know we needed to have on hand this wedding season.
03of 15
DKNY Chiffon-Sleeve Velvet Wrap Dress
A cozy, snowy wedding is the perfect vibe for this deep blue, ruched-velvet dress. Chiffon balloon sleeves cap the look for an elevated winter wedding guest dress.
Can a Guest Wear a White Dress With a Pattern to a Wedding? 5 Experts Weigh In
04of 15
Lulus My Whole Heart Dark Navy Blue Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
Understated and elegant, this maxi wrap dress has long sheer sleeves that sweetly gather at the shoulder and covered button details along the cuff. Pair it with some sparkly silver accessories to bring the glam factor up a notch.
05of 15
Dress the Population Nadia Long Sleeve Scoop Back Midi Dress
This emerald green sheath dress is classy and sophisticated, with a high neck and deeply scooped back. The demure side slit finishes off the look.
Can Guests Bring a Change of Shoes to a Wedding? Here's How to Get Comfortable Appropriately, Per a Stylist
06of 15
Restoration Westerly Velvet Dress
Crushed red velvet screams cozy, winter glamour. Sweet tie straps add an ultra feminine touch, while a thigh-high side slit offers a touch a drama.
07of 15
Badgley Mischka Cape Front Sheath Mini Dress
Turn the idea of a caped dress on its head with this front cape number from Badgley Mischka. A deep blue that suits any winter wedding theme, the dress also features 3/4 sleeves and a center back slit for comfort.
08of 15
Mango Flowy Flower Printed Dress
Flowy fabric paired with a sweet flower pattern make for an ideal winter wedding guest dress if you'd like to go a more casual route. Three-quarter sleeves, a V-neck, and a ribbon tie on the waist complete this look.
09of 15
Reformation Gloriana Silk Dress in Emerald
Emerald green is one of our favorite colors for winter, and it's absolutely unforgettable when done in a sweetheart neckline and bustier bodice.
What to Wear to a Black-Tie Wedding
10of 15
Badgley Mischka Draped-Sleeve Velvet Gown in Red
Regal red velvet and dramatic puffed sleeves create an unforgettable winter wedding look. Imagine this with a retro Hollywood wave and a deep ruby lip.
11of 15
Lulus Awaken My Love Burgundy Long Sleeve Lace Maxi Dress
Crochet lace in a pretty burgundy red meets a beautifully draped full length skirt in this affordable winter wedding guest dress.
12of 15
Lilly Pulitzer Kavia Jumpsuit in Onyx
Sometimes, a jumpsuit is just easier. This silk crepe piece in a stunning emerald green is perfect for your indoor winter celebrations. Pair it with gold heels and statement earrings.
13of 15
Needle & Thread Aurora Ballerina Dress in Red
This shimmering sequined dress is stunning for a holiday wedding. With illusion sleeves, vintage-inspired lace, and sweet ruffles, it boasts every romantic frill in the book.
14of 15
Eliza J Mock Neck Blouson Gown in Hunter
A floor-length velvet gown in a wintery shade of hunter green is perfect for all your black-tie affairs this season. Plus, you get the drama of a turtleneck with the flattering fit of a halter.
15of 15
Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Perlita Illusion Blouson-Sleeve Dress in Black
Feminine sheer sleeves and a gentle V-neckline give this dress royal vibes. This is one you'll wear for years to come.
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
Tell us why!