Shopping·11 min read

Winter Wedding Guest Outfits You’ll Want to Wear Again and Again

winter-wedding-guest-header
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Dolce Vita, Reformation
January 31, 2024

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Winter weddings can be fun, festive, and a little chilly. So how do you strike the right tone with your ’fit? Check the dress code, then lean into the season's aesthetic. If it’s a dead-of-winter celebration, look to rich fabrics, deeper hues, dark florals, and long sleeves to keep you warm. Here you’ll find velvet maxis, sequined minis, and simple midis to keep you covered while you celebrate the happy couple.

halter-dress
Rebdolls

A satin halter dress with adjustable straps…

This silky midi comes in a sophisticated midnight blue and has a classic deep-V neckline. The adjustable straps (unheard of for a halter dress) will ensure the fit is just right, so you won’t need to run to your tailor. ($48.93, Rebdolls)

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metallic-dress
Madewell

A metallic slip dress you can wear into spring…

This metallic midi features a whimsical floral print that’s slightly festive, but doesn’t lean too New Year’s Eve. It’s eye-catching, body-skimming, and just needs a great pair of pumps. You’ll be wearing this one to work with a light layer when it starts to get warm. ($168, Madewell)

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black-dress
Anthropologie

A black dress with lace detailing…

There’s nothing more classic for a winter wedding than a stunning black dress, and this one fits the bill. It has an asymmetrical hem and sleeves for a unique silhouette. A side cut-out covered in lace is a playful detail that’s not too revealing for even a black-tie event. ($228, Anthropologie)

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reformation-dress
Reformation

An investment dress that comes in six colors…

This dress deserves a night on the town. It has a chic high neck, straps that cross in the back with a cutout, and ruching on the sides to accentuate your waist. You’ll find yourself stopping to appreciate how good you look in the mirror. Wear this on a date night later to wow again. ($328, Reformation)

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platforms
Dolce Vita

Platform heels we’ve worn all night long…

We’ve worn these sturdy platforms dancing and standing for hours, and they’ve never let us down. The heel height is just right, the ankle strap will keep you from wobbling, and the leather has a soft, broken-in feel right out of the box. Grab the black or opt for the festive silver or gold. ($150, Dolce Vita)

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brown-dress
Eloquii

A sequin dress in trendy brown…

This espresso color has been everywhere lately, from activewear to evening wear, and we’re here for it. This sequin dress comes in a midi length with flowing ruffles from the hip to the hemline. Pair with a slicked-back bun to go full mermaidcore. ($77.97, Eloquii)

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wrap
Nordstrom

A wrap to keep you warm as you move from venue to venue…

Odds are you’ll be exposed to the chilly winter air for at least part of the night, so you’ll want to cover your shoulders with something that goes with your outfit. Choose from three colors of this lightweight metallic wrap and tie it or drape it however you see fit. ($39, Nordstrom)

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v-neck
Birdy Grey

A V-neck dress with a flutter sleeve…

If you’re not into the idea of going sleeveless, this velvet dress has a sleeve that will keep your shoulders covered. Don’t worry, the V-neck and thigh-high slit mean you’ll still be showing a little skin. With eight rich colors to choose from, you’re sure to find one that speaks to you. Psst…this is technically a bridesmaid dress, but it’s more than appropriate for guests, too. ($49, Birdy Grey)

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shimmer-dress
Revolve

A shimmery number that pulls out all the stops…

Puffy sleeves? Check. Side slit? Check. Disco ball shimmer? Check and check. If you’re looking for a dress that can go from the dance floor to the dining room and turn every head along the way, this metallic one from cult-favorite brand ASTR the Label is it. It’s partially lined and made with ruched jersey fabric for a comfy fit. ($128, Revolve)

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slip-dress
Abercrombie & Fitch

A simple and elegant slip dress…

Pro tip: We get all our slip dresses from Abercrombie & Fitch. The high neck on this one is so chic and would look great with an updo. We love the gray for a unique take on black-tie dressing. ($44.99, Abercrombie & Fitch)

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silk-gown
Free People

A silk gown that’ll be a hit on the dance floor…

This dress is pure magic, from the slinky fabric to the ruffles delicately hanging off the sleeves that’ll be so fun when you’re dancing. The ruffle detail continues onto the thigh-high slit. We can hardly decide among the navy, green, and bright orchid. ($370, Free People)

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midi-dress
Banana Republic

A classic silk midi dress you’ll wear to the office, too…

One thing’s for sure, you’ll never get tired of this dress. It’s a classic silk midi dress with a square neckline. The bias cut skims your body, rather than hugging it too tightly, so it affords plenty of movement. ($109.97+, Banana Republic)

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strapless-maxi
Amazon

A strapless maxi dress with a back cutout…

When we saw this dress, we were blown away by how expensive it looks. The strapless, foldover top is so elegant, and the cowl in the back is a flirty touch. The elasticized band in the back ensures it’ll stay up all night. It comes in more than 20 colors. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

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knit-maxi
Revolve

A knit maxi dress with a gathered waist…

If you’re looking for something a bit more casual, this dress takes the cake. The knit fabric is slinky and stretchy, while the gathered knot at the waist will flatter any figure. It comes in a season-appropriate forest green. We’d style this one with shiny earrings and gold heels for an added touch of glamour. ($178, Revolve)

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velvet-maxi
Anthropologie

A velvet maxi with an off-the-shoulder neckline…

This one is downright romantic. From the flattering neckline to the thigh-high side slit, we think we might be in love. It comes in five rich shades and sizes 0–26. Add a faux fur wrap and shimmering tights to keep you warm throughout the night. ($295, Anthropologie)

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red-mini
Eloquii

A sequined mini dress that comes in jewel tones…

This sequin-covered number has a tulip hem to give you plenty of coverage but show off your legs, and an elegant high neck. The ruching that starts at the waist and goes down the hip is sure to flatter. When the wedding’s over, you’ll have it on hand for holiday parties. ($31.19, Eloquii)

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jumpsuit
Amazon

A long-sleeve jumpsuit for a one-and-done outfit…

This one is made of soft jersey fabric, with a shirred waist and V-neck. The long sleeves ensure you’ll stay warm, and the concealed back zipper makes it easy to get on and off (especially when you have to hit the ladies’ room). It’s a blank canvas for accessories, so have fun with it. ($148.80+, Amazon)

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investment-dress
Saks Fifth Avenue

An investment dress you’ll wear for years…

Time after time, we’ve looked to Alice + Olivia for occasion dresses that make us feel like a million bucks. This one is no different; the off-the-shoulder silhouette is so dreamy, and it’s adorned with the most romantic winter floral pattern. The V in the back gives it a little flair, and when you move, the fishtail skirt will really come to life. ($595, Saks Fifth Avenue)

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ankle-strap-heels
Sam Edelman

Ankle-strap heels that’ll go the distance…

These are an HQ’r favorite for their long-lasting comfort. They have a 3.5-inch heel for just enough height, and we love the two-strap, open-toe detail. They’ve been featured in the brand’s bridal and bridesmaid collections, aka they’re the perfect pair to complement any formal look. ($120, Sam Edelman)

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