Winter weddings have a problem summer weddings do not: you spend part of the night outside, and the ceremony is often in a building somebody heated for exactly one hour. Sleeves and a heavier fabric do more for you than any wrap you will end up carrying.
Dresses with sleeves
- Stella Dress ($268, sizes 00 to 34). Navy with gold constellation embroidery, a boned bodice, and sheer puff long sleeves. The most formal option here.
- Mary Dress ($168, sizes XXS to 6X). Red velvet with a pearl-trimmed square neckline and shoulder bows. Velvet holds heat better than the lighter fabrics most occasion dresses use.
- Fern Dress ($148, sizes XXS to 6X). Deep green with opaque full puff sleeves and pockets. Size up.
- Everbloom Dress ($248, sizes 00 to 34). Teal with sheer 3/4 puff sleeves. Size up.
Winter colors that photograph well
Deep jewel tones read as evening and hold up against dark backgrounds and candlelight. Emerald, navy, teal, plum, and red all work. Pale pastels can look washed out in winter light, especially indoors under warm bulbs.
- Margaret Dress in Emerald ($168, sizes XXS to 6X). An embroidered midi with shoulder bows.
- Starry Night Dress ($228, sizes XXS to 6X). Deep blue and gold, with puff sleeves.
- Cordelia Dress ($258, sizes XXS to 6X). Lavender, for a lighter winter palette. Consider sizing down.
Practical things that matter in January
- Floor length keeps your legs warm. A midi with tights works too, and is easier to walk in on ice.
- Pick shoes you can cross a parking lot in. Thin heels and frozen gravel do not mix.
- A dress with pockets means you are not holding a clutch and a coat and a drink at once. The Fern Dress has them.
- Velvet and heavier woven fabrics hold warmth. Tulle and chiffon do not.
Common questions
Can I wear black to a winter wedding?
Yes. Black is standard for evening and winter weddings. Ask first only if it is a daytime ceremony and you know the family has opinions.
What is the warmest dress fabric?
Velvet, then heavier lined wovens. Sheer sleeves look covered in photos but do not add warmth.
Do you carry winter wedding guest dresses above a size 16?
Yes. Every dress runs to 6X or to a numeric 34, at the same price in every size. Our size guide has the chart.