Finding perfect winter wedding guest dresses is no easy task. Not only have you got to think about keeping warm, but you’ve also got to consider your personal styleandthe type of wedding you’re going to – formal, black tie, maybe even Christmas themed?
Panic not –if you’re not sure what to wear to awinter wedding, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve scoured the high street to bring you 40 of the most beautiful dresses for winter wedding guests, with something for every budget.
40 of the Best Wedding Guest Dresses for Winter Weddings
Whether you’re after a glamorous midi winter wedding guest dress, a long sleeve dress for a winter wedding, or something short and playful, there's a frock in this edit for you. We’ve even got some wedding guest jumpsuits thrown in there for good measure!
Oh, and once you’ve found your perfect winter wedding guest dress, why not browse ourwedding guest hairstyle guide? You’ll be feeling ready for the wedding pictures (and reception dancefloor) in no time.
- How to Dress as a Winter Wedding Guest: 5 Expert Tips
1. Puff Sleeve Midi Tea Dress – £59, Marks & Spencer
Go for gold in this metallic gown from Marks & Spencer. Crafted from shimmering lamé, this winter wedding guest dress is glitzy without being over the top and is an ideal way to wear sparkles to a wedding if you don't want to draw any attention away from the happy couple.
Sizing: 8-20
Pros & Cons:You'll be able to find a a length that works for you as this piece is available in petite, regular or long lengths. It is fully lined which ensures a smooth finish but we would still recommend wearing with tights if it is very cold as reviews state the skirt is a little thin.
2. Adeline Frill Midi Dress – £169, Whistles
For a sleek and timeless silhouette Whistles can do no wrong and we adore the Adeline dress. It comes in this lovely deep aubergine colour which is a great alternative to the typical green and red you see with dresses for Christmas wedding guests. If you're playing a more important role, we think this would make a great red bridesmaid dress too!
Sizing: 4-20
Pros & Cons:Sustainable guests will love this style as it's actually crafted from recycled polyester that would otherwise have been sent to landfill. This fabric has little stretch to it so be mindful of that when choosing your size.
3. Savannah Occasion Midi Dress – £238, Reiss
There isn't a more festive colour than red so if the wedding you're attending is Christmas themed, (or even if its not!), this spectacular dress from Reiss could be the one. The way that fabric drapes is dreamy and it'll feel so soft and luxurious on your skin.
Sizing: 4-18
Pros & Cons:This shade of red is universally flattering on all skin tones which is a tricky find. It's an investment piece that you can re-wear for festive seasons to come making it well worth the price.
4. Tiered Metallic Maxi Puff Sleeve Dress – £149, Coast
A fresh take on animal print, this tiered dress from Coast has a classic wrap design, but with a vibrant pattern that is sure to turn heads. The skirt will swish in the most beautiful way when you move and the subtle metallic material will glisten under lights.
Sizing: 8-18
Pros & Cons:Animal print might not be your first thought when it comes to a winter wedding guest dress but this frock proves that it can totally work. Keep your accessories minimal and let the dress do the talking.
5. Rosella Embroidered Dress –£199, Hobbs
We love this floral dress from Hobbs. It's a great choice if you want to incorporate some colour into your outfit for a winter wedding! A perfect combination of contrasting colours, pair with a red lip and sleek hair for ultimate vintage winter vibes.
Sizing: 6-20
Pros & Cons:A tea length dress will work for all ages but is best suited for an older wedding guest thanks to its demure hem length and neckline. It would also work wonderfully as a mother of the bride outfit.
READ MORE: 42 Best Wedding Guest Dresses to Shop Now
6. Sophie Floral Print Jumpsuit –£140, Phase Eight
Don’t forget the power of a jumpsuit when it comes to winter wedding guest dressing – theSophie design, from Phase Eight, will enable you to bust any number of moves at the reception disco. Partner it with an oversized blazer for effortless cool. See more wedding guest jumpsuit inspiration here.
Sizing: 6-20
Pros & Cons:Reviews say that the material on this jumpsuit hangs beautifully. The trouser length comes up long so if you are petite, pair with high heels or have the length altered.
7. Shirred Polka Dot Midi Dress – £340, Self-Portrait
Self-Portrait are known for their romantic designs and this polka dot dress is the winter wedding dress for any guest who wants to earn style points –the ruffles, tiers and tulle will garner you endless compliments from fellow fashionistas in the know.
Sizing: 4-14
Pros & Cons:Self-Portrait may be a little pricier than your average high street wedding guest dress, but the quality of the material is exceptional so the dress you pick will last a lifetime in your wardrobe.
8. Satin Polka Print Midi Dress –£58, Little Mistress
The burgundy wine shade ofthis Little Mistress dresswas what caught our eye, but the polka dot detailing and satisfyingly weighty satin material were what made us hit add to basket. It’s a super feminine pick that will give your final Christmas wedding guest dress ensemble a fun, flirty feel.
Sizing: 6-16
Pros & Cons:The ruched cuffs give this dress a unique and pretty finish. It is a reserved style but the leg slit adds a touch of sexiness.
9. Flutter Sleeve Floral Print Midi Dress –£70, Chi Chi London
This dress from Chi Chi London would work for a wedding in all seasons - you don't have to just stick to traditional festive prints and colours y'know! The vibrant pink floral pattern is a breath of fresh air and if you're worried about being cold, pop a chic blazer over your shoulders or pair with boots.
Sizing: 6-16
Pros & Cons:The empire line waist gives this gown a really flattering silhouette. Check out the back of this dress for a leopard print surprise we bet you won't expect!
10. Satin Halter Neck Tiered Maxi Dress –£45, Boohoo
Sumptuous green satin frocks are a no brainer for a winter wedding guest dress pick and they don't have to cost the earth. This beauty from Boohoo comes in at under £50 so you'll have extra to spend on accessories. Gold would be our metallic of choice with this colourway.
Sizing: 8-18
Pros & Cons:This winter wedding guest dress is also available in red but we prefer emerald as it may look a little much for a wedding guest dress with the tiered silhouette as well.
READ MORE: What to Wear to a Wedding When You're Pregnant
11. Lilianna Backless Balloon Sleeve Printed Dress –£88, Pretty Lavish
We've never found a Pretty Lavish dress that we didn't love - exhibit A, the gorgeous Lilianna gown. The bold pattern is what first draws your eye in and then you notice the fabulous balloon sleeves and effortless movement from the skirt.
Sizing: 6-26
Pros & Cons:If you want to give this dress even more seasonal appeal, add a faux fur festive shrug. It'll be a dreamy winter wonderland look!
12. Satin Tie Front Midi Dress –£45, River Island
Looking for a short winter wedding guest dress? Whether you pair this beauty from River Island with tights, or brave it bare legs, it'll look glorious. It's a super comfortable pick as you can have the tie belt as tight as you like - ideal if you want it a little looser after tucking into the wedding breakfast.
Sizing: 18-28
Pros & Cons:This style of dress is best suited for a more causal and relaxed setting - if the celebration is formal it will still work, just pair with glitzy accessories and a sophisticated sleek hairstyle.
13. Satin Panel Dress –£49.99, Mango
Simple is sometimes best and this stylish satin slip dress from Mango is a design that has been tried and tested. You can dress it up or down depending on the celebration and your taste - this model has even paired hers with some amazing leopard print heels - we love a statement shoe!
Sizing: 6-14
Pros & Cons:Satin is a beautiful material that will skim gracefully over your hips - be mindful to wear underwear without embellishments for a smooth and seamless finish.
14. Swirl Print Satin Short Puff Sleeve Midi Dress –£35.99, New Look
Puff sleeves were the trend of the year and they aren't slowing down any time soon. Stay on top of your style game by opting for this patterned dress from New Look. It's unique thanks to the contrasting print which gives it an edge over other similar designs.
Sizing: 6-22
Pros & Cons:At the back of this winter wedding guest dress there is a ribbon tie so you have the choice of cinching it in at your waist. It's a little tricky to do up on your own so you might want someone on hand to help.
15. Alexis Wool Crepe Shift Dress –£359, LK Bennett
If the thought of wearing colour brings you out in a cold sweat, you don't have to change your ways just because you have a winter wedding coming up. A neutral pick like this dress from LK Bennett will look lovely and elegant without being in your face.
Sizing: 6-18
Pros & Cons:This dress is also available in plum, red, black and pink to suit all tastes. The gold zip is visible, but we think this adds some edge to the sophisticated style.
READ MORE: 19 Things Wedding Guests Absolutely Hate
16. Floral Wrap Detail Blazer Dress –£40, Pretty Little Thing
Blazer dresses are a go-to in our books and this floral Pretty Little Thing number is what blazer dress dreams are made of. From the bold blue print, to the sophisticated structure and sexy deep neckline, this is a beautiful option.
Sizing: 4-16
Pros & Cons:This wintery blazer dress would also look amazing worn with tights if you think you'll be a little cold on the day. Go for a low denier we say to keep the look contemporary.
17. Shibori Print Pleated Dress - £179, Whistles
Chic, stylish and elegant this striped green printed dress is made from one of the best fabrics we've seen all season. It's from Whistles so you know it'll be great quality and a piece you can keep in your wardrobe and re-wear time and time again.
Sizing: 4-18
Pros & Cons:The detail in this dress is amazing and makes it worth the £179 price tag. From the intricate striped print, to the flattering pleated skirt - we're sold!
18. Velvet Midi Party Dress - £160, Boden
Velvet and dresses for Christmas wedding guests go hand in hand and this Boden beauty is a beautiful choice. It is available in petite or regular sizing and is a gorgeous shade of denim blue that will change colour with movement.It would also work well if you are opting for velvet bridesmaid dresses.
Sizing: 6-22
Pros & Cons:Reviews state that this dress is best suited for those with a smaller chest - if you have a bigger bust consider sizing up!
19. Ombre Wrap Dress - £69, Wallis
This mesmerising ensemble of blue, pink and purple is a playful winter wedding guest dress choice. The waterfall style front pairs with the ombre print perfectly and we adore the balloon sleeves and drop hem skirt. Black accessories will work best with this beauty.
Sizing: 8-20
Pros & Cons:This dress is petite but it'll work just as well for tall wedding guests - the hem line will simply be higher.
20. Joanna Hope Beaded Batwing Dress - £190, Simply Be
Shimmer and shine at your next winter wedding with this gorgeous beaded number from Simply Be. The twinkling material gives the illusion of a night sky and would look amazing at an evening celebration. The navy colourway keeps the look sophisticated.
Sizing: 10-30
Pros & Cons:The batwings and loose silhouette allows you to style this dress as you please - we recommend cinching it in at the middle with a belt for a flattering finish.
READ MORE: 23 Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses
21. Gloriana Silk Dress - £390, Reformation
Trendy brand Reformation stock stylish wedding guest dresses that are celebrity approved. 2021 bride Lucy Watson wore this beauty to a friend's wedding so if you want to steal her style you can! The Gloriana dress is a long sleeve dress for a winter wedding guest dress that will truly impress.
Sizing: 4-16
Pros & Cons:A sweetheart neckline is super flattering and thanks to the elasticated ruching, you won't have to worry about the sleeves falling down. As this dress is shipped from the US, duties and tax may be added.
22. Chantilly Sequin Micro Mini Dress - £450, Needle & Thread
Have you seen a more festive Christmas wedding guest dress? This amazing frock from Needle & Thread features their signature sequins, lace and beading making it the ideal choice for a glitzy celebration. It is also available in floor length should you prefer.
Sizing: 6-22
Pros & Cons:Inspired by 1930s styling, this design has a vintage appeal. Post-wedding, we can see this dress being worn to the work Christmas party so you'll get lots of use out of it - it's an investment that is totally worth it.
23. Rose Print Pleated Sweetheart Midi Dress - £80, Dorothy Perkins
A romantic take on a winter wedding guest dress is this number from Dorothy Perkins. The tulle overlay gives texture and adds an ethereal touch. Add some edge to your look with black accessories and a red lip.
Sizing: 8-20
Pros & Cons:Pleats will elongate your legs as they draw the eye down. As the print is fairly busy, go for a block colour with your bag and shoes.
24. Round Neck Midaxi Tea Dress - £45, Marks & Spencer
Another fabulous contender from Marks and Spencer is this teal blue tea dress. It's a traditional look that has been given a contemporary upgrade thanks to the shimmery material and metallic silver platform heels. It is also available in navy, silver and red.
Sizing: 8-20
Pros & Cons:The delicate bows on the sleeves are a pretty addition. Get your hands on this quick - Marks and Spencer frock sell out quickly!
25. Floral Dobby Mesh Strappy Midi Dress - £79, Oasis
It may be chilly outside, but you'll want to pick a design that won't make you too warm once you are inside the wedding venue. This strappy number from Oasis is just the ticket - it has a seasonal floral print and double layers that are a happy medium between warm and breathable.
Sizing: XS-XL
Pros & Cons:The shoulder straps are adjustable so you can ensure a comfortable fit. Bring a wedding coat along with you just in case!
READ MORE: The 50 Best Wedding Gifts
26. Zoey Embellished Star Midi Dress - £150, Monsoon
A black wedding guest dress doesn't have to be boring - this Monsoon dress is seriously impressive, embellished with a bust of star and firework sequins. In fact, it's one of our favourite Christmas wedding guest dresses of the year!
Sizing: 8-24
Pros & Cons:Reviews comment that this dress is high quality, flattering and has a luxurious feel. It manages to make a statement and be understated all at the same time.
27. Pleated Mesh Ruffle Sleeve Dress - £169, Coast
Florals aren't just for summer wedding guest dresses, if you want to wear this pretty print in the cooler months, opt for darker hues and blooms such as roses. There is a really romantic feel to this Coast dress that makes it very wedding-appropriate.
Sizing: 18-26
Pros & Cons:With florals, pleats, tulle and ruffles, this dress has a lot going on so you'll make an entrance in the best possible way. If you want to tone the look down, a blazer would do the job easily.
28. Swirl Print Satin Wrap Shirt Dress - £28, Boohoo
We can’t take our eyes of thisgorgeous satin wrap dress- that print is seriously statement without taking away from the centre of attention (aka, the happy couple), making it the ideal winter wedding guest dress.
Sizing: 8-16
Pros & Cons:At the time of writing, there’s 40% off, making it a total bargain at just £16.80. The rest of the wedding party won't believe this price!
29. Annalise Backless Balloon Sleeve Satin Dress - £88, Pretty Lavish
The jewel tone, the fabulous sleeves, the flattering fit – we’d wear thisPretty Lavish dressanywhere, including to the next wedding in the diary. Black strappy heels and a matching clutch would edge it up a little, as would a pair of thick gold hoops.
Sizing: 6-26
Pros & Cons:Pretty Lavish guest dresses dresses are an affordable yet stylish choice. Be warned, you'll want to buy everything on their website!
30. Velvet Long Sleeve Midi Dress - £49, River Island
We adore the lush velvet used to make this River Islanddresswhich is finished with a flattering sweetheart neckline and romantic puff sleeves to add even more interest to this unique winter wedding guest dress option.
Sizing: 6-18
Pros & Cons:The thick fabric this dress is made from means you won't even have to bring another layer with you.
READ MORE: 17 Autumn Wedding Guest Dresses
31. Berry Rainbow Foil Midi Wrap Dress - £78, Little Mistress
This Little Mistress dress has a rainbow polka dot print ina berry red colour palette that’s just the right side of Christmassy, and is complimented by a frilled skirt We adore the addition of the gold party heels that this model is rocking.
Sizing: 6-18
Pros & Cons:We haven't seen rainbow foil spots like this anywhere before! We're predicting lots of people will be asking you where you got your winter wedding guest dress from if you pick this fun and fabulous style.
32. Lace Layer High Neck Pleated Skirt Midi Dress - £45.99, New Look
You can always rely on New Look for purse-friendly fashion for any type of wedding, and this lacemidiwould look just as good at a county hall reception as it would in a boho barn. Top it off with coordinating metallic accessories and a low bun to show off that pretty lace neckline.
Sizing: 6-22
Pros & Cons:We love how this winter guest dress gives the look of wearing a skirt and a top. It makes this otherwise traditional pick feel rather modern and cool.
33. Floral Satin Midi Dress - £79, Wallis
We've fallen head over heels for thisWallis beauty,and we reckon you will too! If your wedding is in early winter the golden green hues of this gown will be the ideal transitional piece to take your from autumn.
Sizing: 8-20
Pros & Cons:Large florals are a really interesting take on the ditsy print you often see. It gives it seasonal appeal.
34. Twister Wunder Marilyn Star Maxi Dress - £70, Simply Be
If your operative word is ‘showstopper’, this Simply Bedresscertainly fits the bill perfectly. The bold colour and star print is seriously beautiful – you’ll just need to keep your accessories minimal to avoid any clashing prints or colours.
Sizing: 10-28
Pros & Cons:We're predicting this is going to be one of the trendiest dresses of the season so add it to your basket pronto to avoid disappointment.
35. Camel Spot Ruffle Neck Midi Dress - £45, Dorothy Perkins
If you’re going to wear black to a winter wedding,this dressis the way to do it – part party dress, part timeless classic, it’s a great all-rounder. It features a ruffled neckline, long sleeves, and an elasticated waist. Oh, and how can we forget that gorgeous gold polka print.
Sizing: 8-18
Pros & Cons: This dress is crafted from crepe which adds texture to the look. Lighten the look with neutral accessories like this model has done.
36. Square Neck Embroidered Midi Dress - £159, Coast
Had an invite to a formal affair? We love Coast for affordable, yet sophisticated fashion choices and the deep navy hue of thislace dresssimply screams winter wedding guest. Pair with a faux fur cape or coat and you'll be set for the entire day to evening.
Sizing: 4-18
Pros & Cons: This is a more structured choice that is best for a wedding where you won't be sitting the whole day. The wide belt is super flattering.
37. Fishtail Satin Slip Dress - £25, Boohoo
At £25, this Boohoodressis an absolute steal, and that’s before you even consider your cost per wear. With a shade that won’t ever date and a fit that works for any occasion, you can slip it on for date night or drinks with the girls long after the big day takes place.
Sizing: 8-18
Pros & Cons:Not a fan of hot pink? It's available in black too! Or red for an extra festive Christmas wedding guest dress.
38. Animal Print Satin Open Back Midi Dress - £55, Little Mistress
This season, you might notice something of a brown reign on the high street - from soft chestnut to rich chocolate, this regal colour is definitely having a moment. One of our favourite incarnations is this Little Mistressmidi dress. Crafted from a soft animal print fabric, it's a winter-ready twist on a classic dress you'll wear year after year.
Sizing: 6-22
Pros & Cons:This dress has grace and flow to it - we're obsessed with the sleeves and draping skirt. If you're looking for the perfect outfit for a winter wedding - this is your dress!
39. Coddington Georgette Dress - £299, LK Bennett
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – LK Bennett is one of the most reliable brands on the entire high street for wedding guest dresses. We’re especially keen onthe Coddington, a calf-length metallic green wedding guest dress with stunning bell sleeves.
Sizing: 6-18
Pros & Cons: The three-quarter length of these sleeves mean you don't have to worry about dipping them into any food or drink! No accessories are needed with this shimmery dress - it speaks for itself.
40. Ditsy Floral Lace Detail Midi Dress - £55, Dorothy Perkins
This mididress from Dorothy Perkinshas the most delicate floral print, and would look just as good with natural, pared-back make-up as it would a bold red lip. Trade the model’s chunky boots for strappy white block heels and pop on a set of statement earrings to amp up the glamour.
Sizing: 8-19
Pros & Cons:If you want your winter wedding guest dress to be pretty but understated, this is the style for you.
How to Dress as a Winter Wedding Guest?
- Consider the dress code. Have the couple made any mention of a colour scheme to adhere to on theirwedding invitation? Have they specified 'co*cktail attire' or 'black tie' outfits? Attention to detail could save you a lot of stress here.
- Consider the weather and be prepared for cold, wind, rain or even snow! Even if the wedding is inside, chances are you’ll be outside for a confetti shot…
- Make a mental note of whatnotto wear to a wedding. Y’know, the glaringly obvious like not wearing white, plus the unwritten rules like no denim and nothing too short.
- Make sure you don’t upstage the couple. Weddings might be a great excuse to get glammed up, but we’d recommend avoiding anything tooOTT.
- Winter is the perfect time for berry hues, dark greens and plenty of texturefrom velvet and sequins. And unless the couple explicitly says otherwise, you can definitely wear black this season.
So you've found the perfect winter wedding guest dress, but what about accessories? Don't miss our round-up of the best wedding guest accessories to buy now!
If you haven't quite found 'the one' take a look at our round up of the best winter wedding coats and coat dresses - they are perfect for an all-in-one look.
