10 Standout Dresses for Winter Weddings
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Photo Credit: NYCxClothes
When it comes to dressing up in the winter, it feels like the choice is always between looking nice and being warm. While a sweater-and-pants combo can be practical and elegant, it isn’t necessarily what comes to mind for a wedding. If you favor a dress as a one-and-done solution, then the question becomes: how do you optimize your look for warmth and glamour? Opting for a gown in a winterproof material like velvet, cashmere or wool is one way to go. The length allows you to discreetly layer thermal leggings under, while the fabric brings in a sense of cozy comfort with its weight.
On the other hand, if you’d like to stick to a lighter material like satin or jersey, or if you don’t want to give any thought to the fabric because the dress is just that attractive, then your best bet is to mindfully pick your finishing accessories; a pair of sheer tights, a fuzzy mohair scarf or furry hat can add serious pizzazz. Assuming you will be traveling by car, you don’t need too many layers, but you will certainly need a good coat (let’s be honest: sometimes it is the only part of the outfit that’s doing all the work).
Winter weddings are the perfect excuse to flex your styling muscles. With longer hemlines, higher necklines, bold colors and sumptuous-looking fabrics, there is a lot to play with. No matter your style preference, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in the dress selection ahead. From Manuri’s festive Cindy dress to Reformation’s polished Cassette number, we gave you a pass at being the second best-dressed person after the bride.
Once you get over the hurdle of fitting your heavy-duty pieces into a carry-on (if it’s a destination wedding) or coming up with your perfect look, the extra effort will make the festivities feel more rewarding.
Manuri Cindy Square-neck Long Dress
Picture an elegant winter party dress ($458), and this Manuri number might come to mind. The feather details and front cutout add a playful and flirty element, in line with the spirit of wedding celebrations. Plus, thanks to the sleeves, you won’t have to worry about being too cold if you layer the dress under a good wool coat.
Manuri Cindy Square-neck Long Dress
$458
Reformation Cassette Silk Dress
$328
Reformation Cassette Silk Dress
Featuring a high neckline and exposed back, this dress ($328) feels both retro and modern. The artichoke color is a fun way to break off the winter blues, plus it is easy to pair with silver or gold accessories. You’ll find yourself reaching for it for multiple occasions.
Natalie Rolt Agatha Dress
There’s more to this dress than meets the eye; the best part about it is how it seems conservative in the front but reveals a more playful side with an ($380) open back. Break off the winter blues with this rich splash of green, and complete the look with gold heels and accessories.
Natalie Rolt Agatha Dress
$380
Coperni Rosette-Embellished Jersey Gown
Sometimes, all it takes is a few rosettes to spice up an otherwise simple silhouette. Having worn the baby pink version ($720) to my sister’s vow renewals this summer, I can confirm that it fits beautifully and will garner lots of compliments. But this isn’t the only reason you should consider it: the deep purple hue is easy to style (bring out the black pumps) and the jersey fabric stretches to some extent. Plus, doesn’t the dress just exude a sense of cool?
Coperni Rosette-Embellished Jersey Gown
$720
L’academie Alma Dress
L’academie is known for feminine pieces that exude easy elegance, and the Alma dress ($268) totally fits the bill. The sheer fabric creates a fun visual contrast, while the warm chocolate hue will compliment your skin—guaranteed! Style it with matching strappy heels or kitten heels for an easygoing look.
L’academie Alma Dress
$268
Bec + Bridge Moondance Strapless Midi Dress
Bec + Bridge Moondance Strapless Midi Dress
$280
This dress is here to simply deliver a stunning moment. The dusty pink shade ($280) is soft and understated, allowing you to accessorize creatively. We love the luster and fluidity of the silk fabric, a great match for a night of champagne, laughter and dancing. Complete the look with a faux-fur coat, a gold evening clutch and matching heels.
Bardot Verona Sequin Dress
If bold colors are your cup of tea, the Verona dress ($179) will fit right in your special-occasion wardrobe. Inspired no doubt by 16Arlighton, it features a sultry cutout and a sequin-covered mesh fabric. Play up the blue theme by wearing this dress with a long navy coat and matching mules.
Bardot Verona Sequin Dress
$179
ASTR The Label Samara Dress
Drenched in a moody shade of red wine, this modest Amara Dress ($148) will prove to be a crowd pleaser in your evening repertoire. With its classic look and fluid material, it’s a fail-safe choice for a variety of occasions. Style it with a dark brown clutch and matching heels.
ASTR The Label Samara Dress
$148
Anna Quan Amyra Dress
Dropped waist skirts are back in style this year, and the Amyra dress ($560) makes an elegant case for the silhouette. The appeal is not only the understated design, but also the timeless style and fun color contrast. Style it for any occasion with a statement necklace and pair of black pumps.
Anna Quan Amyra Dress
$560
Runway The Label Gabourne Dress
Runway The Label Gabourne Dress
$139
A disco-inspired take on the strapless dress ($139), this festive number is covered in sequins to create the ultimate reception-ready look. What draws us to it is the stately yet understated midnight shade. Isn’t it a nice change from the typical black dress?