The 40 Best Dresses to Wear to a Winter Wedding as a Guest

Winter is by far the most festive time of year, and a wedding only adds to the seasonal joy. But before you can party with the happy couple, you'll need an outfit that lives up to those celebratory vibes. We've rounded up some of our favorite winter wedding guest dresses that'll instantly put you in the party mood. No matter the dress code or your budget, you're bound to find a beautiful dress to wear to a winter wedding right here. Our list includes signature seasonal styles (think: luxe velvet, shiny metallics, rich jewel tones, and bright festive hues). You'll also see plenty of on-trend details like statement sleeves, slip dress silhouettes, and cowl necklines. 

Ready to take the guesswork out of what to wear to a winter wedding? Keep reading for our top places to shop online and all the outfit inspo you could possibly need.

Where to Buy Winter Wedding Guest Dresses

To make things easy, we've listed 40 of the best winter dresses for wedding guests below. But if you'd rather browse the web for yourself, check out our top three places to shop for a winter wedding guest outfit online.

• Adrianna Papell: Adrianna Papell's signature styles are stunning all year round, but they're particularly fitting for winter. Details like beading and sequins add a festive finish to any outfit. Whether you're attending a semi-formal affair or black tie soiree, you'll find something here.  
• Rent the Runway: Not ready to commit your hard-earned dollars to one outfit? Rent the Runway has lots of beautiful dresses for winter weddings you can rent and return for a fraction of the price.
• Hello Molly: Hello Molly will give your closet serious cool girl vibes. The brand's sexy-meets-elegant midi and maxi dresses are perfect for weddings. And right now, there are plenty of winter-ready outfits on the site in seasonal shades.

The Best Dresses to Wear to a Winter Wedding

If you came here looking for inspiration, consider it found. We've got 40 gorgeous outfits for you to choose from, whether you're shopping for a celebration in December, January, or February. Trust us, any of these picks will make you the best-dressed guest at that winter wedding.

1. Silver sequins

Attending a wedding on or around New Year's Eve? Metallic shades like gold, silver, and bronze are a great way to nail the celebratory vibe. This allover sequin dress is sure to garner more than a few compliments. It's a stunning formal dress for a winter wedding.

Adrianna Papell plus-size off-the-shoulder sequin beaded gown in Lead, $329, Adrianna Papell

2. Passionate florals

There's something incredibly romantic about this velvet midi dress. The deep red florals are just so striking against the black velvet background. Playful puff sleeves and a sweetheart neckline bring a beautiful balance of sweet and sultry. 

Autumn Adeigbo Rowena floral velvet dress, from $72 to rent, Rent the Runway 

3. Statement mini

It's winter, which means jewel tones are once again the stars of the show. A dramatic long tie at the waist and an asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline make this sleeveless 'fit equal parts glamorous and sexy. This winter wedding cocktail dress reminds us of incredibly luxe gift wrap, making you the best wedding gift and the best-dressed guest. 

Hello Molly Runaway Charismata purple dress, $106, Hello Molly

4. Beautiful burgundy

In the winter season, both shades of red and jewel tones are a fitting choice. This burgundy midi offers the best of both worlds, and it's made of figure-hugging jersey fabric, which means it's comfortable to boot. If you're on the hunt for a plus-size winter wedding guest dress, this could be the one.

Boohoo plus plisse twist front midi dress in Berry, $105, Boohoo

5. Metallic midi

Did someone say gold sequins? We love an allover sparkle moment, and this charming designer dress gives all of that and more. The metallic gold hue is especially fit for a New Year's Eve wedding (but really, it'll work throughout the holiday season). Thanks to the streamlined midi silhouette, it's just as fitting for a cocktail wedding as it is for a formal affair. 

Halston Ray sequin dress, $495, Olivela

6. Formal maxi

If the invitation calls for black tie attire, your safest bet is to choose a full-length dress. Materials like velvet and satin are considered appropriate for formal events (plus, they fit the season really well). This deep purple maxi dress is exactly the kind of regal hue winter is known for. It's available in a range of inclusive sizes, including plus-size and petite options.

Chi Chi London plus-size satin slip cowl back maxi dress in Purple, $148, Chi Chi London

7. Electric blue

This otherwise streamlined wedding guest dress lets the bold blue color do all the talking. Wondering how to complete the look? Strapless dresses look stunning with a faux fur wrap or delicate pashmina. 

Dynamite midi strapless dress, $60, Dynamite

8. Ombré effect

Here's another suitably sparkly outfit for a wedding that's taking place around Christmas or New Year's Eve. The deep pink color adds a playful element to this elevated attire. Fuchsia turns to plum in an eye-catching ombré moment that you can guarantee you'll get complimented on. 

Trina Turk Asandra jumpsuit, $468, Trina Turk

9. Minimalist maxi

You can never go wrong with a simple-but-chic crepe dress, especially if you choose a color that salutes the holiday season. Add a touch of glam to this elegant outfit with a pair of heeled pumps and some bling. 

Birdy Grey Ash curve crepe dress, $99, Birdy Grey

10. Sultry slip

When it comes to what not to wear to a wedding, many guests get the wrong idea about the color black. In most cases, it's totally fine to wear black to a wedding, especially in the winter when darker hues are trending. This versatile midi dress has a slip silhouette and cowl neckline. Dress it up with a pair of strappy heels and some statement earrings for a cocktail wedding.

Anaphe silhouette silk cowl slip dress, $208, Anaphe

11. Floral velvet

We don't know about you, but this combination of teal velvet and dark florals checks all of our boxes. The V-neckline provides an opportunity to show off a nice necklace.  

Lulus Evenings With You dark teal floral velvet asymmetrical dress, $66, Lulus

12. Eye-catching color

While powdery mauve and blush tones are arguably more suited for the spring, you can totally wear pink to a winter wedding if you want to. The trick is to choose a shade that fits the season, such as fuchsia or magenta. Pair this hot pink satin dress with a faux fur wrap or leather jacket to combat the cold weather. Barbie would totally approve. 

Old Navy satin smocked midi slip dress in Raspberry Tart, $45, Old Navy

13. Sleek jumpsuit

A jumpsuit is an excellent (read: warm) winter wedding outfit idea, especially if part of the celebration is taking place outdoors. The satin material, wide-leg silhouette, and cowl neckline give this jumpsuit an especially formal feel. Since it has short sleeves, we recommend pairing it with a cute bolero to keep out the chill.

Fame and Partners draped maxi jumpsuit in Satin Black Twill, $349, Fame and Partners

14. Asymmetrical one-shoulder

The dainty florals on this one-shoulder dress remind us of budding blooms, while the dark black background keeps it rooted in the winter months. It's an excellent wedding guest dress for late February or early March when the lines between winter and spring are blurred. 

Amur asymmetric one-shoulder dress, from $72 to rent, Rent the Runway

15. Ruffled tiers

Shades of blue are also popular during the winter, from deep midnight hues all the way to light icy tones. This navy winter wedding guest dress has a plunging neckline and romantic tiered skirt. The cutout and tie-back details add some boho charm.

Lulus Show Your Affection navy blue tiered ruffled maxi dress, $79, Lulus

16. Column silhouette

If you've been invited to a black tie wedding, it might be time to invest in an elegant gown you can wear again at future formal events. Everything about this column dress is perfect for winter, from the dark green hue and satin material to the elegant off-the-shoulder style. 

Amsale Pryce off-the-shoulder column dress, $495, Anthropologie

17.  Satin trim

We can imagine Mrs. Claus herself in this burgundy cocktail dress. The red hue and velvet material feel delightfully festive, while the satin trim adds a lavish touch. It's easily one of the most Christmas-worthy wedding guest dresses we've seen.

Adrianna Papell satin-trimmed velvet tuxedo dress in Burgundy, $149, Adrianna Papell

18. Lovely lilac

If you're looking for a dress to wear as a guest to a wedding in February, you might want to move beyond festive reds, greens, and metallics. This dusty lilac dress is a beautiful transitional piece that doesn't feel overly spring-y thanks to its darker-than-usual hue. 

Anna Nata Emily dress in Dusty Lilac, $318, REVOLVE

19. Put-together pantsuit

There's no denying that dark green is a festive hue—after all, it's the color of Christmas trees. With that in mind, it's a great color to go with if you're looking for an outfit to wear as a guest at a December wedding. This pantsuit offers plenty of coverage from cold weather, but the plunging neckline and front-slit trousers still show off a little skin. It's a daring spin on a sophisticated ensemble.

Latellier tie-wait blazer and front-slit trousers set in Dark Green, $299, Latellier

20. Casual mini

If you're attending a winter wedding with a casual dress code, this sweet velvet midi will do the trick. This chic design will be a versatile addition to your wardrobe even after the nuptials. It comes in a range of inclusive sizes, including petite and plus-size options. 

Anthropologie The Somerset Mini Dress: Velvet Edition, $148, Anthropologie 

21. Semi-formal sheath

For a semi-formal dress code, you want a winter wedding guest outfit that's less glitz-and-glam and more subtle-and-sophisticated. This sheath dress gets it right. The high neckline, long sleeves, and knee-length skirt feel modest but not overly formal. A silver sequin trim around the cuffs adds subtle sparkle. Pair it with silver jewelry to match. 

Connected Apparel chiffon sleeve sheath dress, $89, Nordstrom

22. Winter romance

Who said romantic, whimsical styles can't rule the colder months of the year? Don't feel confined to sultry silhouettes if that's not your vibe. The combination of an icy blue hue with flirty feminine details makes this dress another great option for late winter and early spring. 

Hello Molly Sky Child steel blue maxi dress, $82, Hello Molly

23. Subtle buttons

Dark shades of green like emerald and forest are popular throughout fall and winter. But if that doesn't sound like your cup of tea, there are ways to brighten it up without going off-theme. Exhibit A: This long, dark green dress with a fun floral print. Oversized flowers in light blue and yellow add plenty of life to this winter-friendly look. A slim fit and high slit provide plenty of opportunities to show off your figure. 

Reformation Frasier dress ES, $248, Reformation

24. Dramatic maxi

Looking for a showstopper? Consider it found. This long dress for a winter wedding guest falls dramatically and elegantly from the high neckline all the way to the floor-sweeping hem. The sleeveless halter neckline is perfect for showing off your shoulders (and a sparkly bracelet or two). 

Banana Republic Radiant maxi dress in Black, $220, Banana Republic

25. Berry red

Red is another color that can sometimes feel a little too daring to wear to a wedding, especially if it's an extra-vibrant hue. But if there's one time of year you can most definitely pull it off, it's the holidays. This strapless jumpsuit will help spread seasonal cheer at a Christmas wedding.

Lulus Power of Love red strapless jumpsuit, $66, Lulus

26. Ruched metallics

This silvery gray midi reminds us of tinsel on the Christmas tree (if it was a little more elevated, obviously). An off-the-shoulder neckline makes room for a statement necklace, shoulder-duster earrings, or both if the dress code is cocktail attire. The ruched material hugs your curves in a fitted bodycon silhouette. Consider your December wedding guest dress found! 

City Chic Luminosity dress in Gunmetal, $179, City Chic

27. Patterned mini

On the hunt for a casual wedding guest dress for the winter? This button-down dress nails the casual aesthetic without feeling bland or boring. An ornate allover print brings celebratory vibes, while bishop sleeves and a high neckline create an elevated finish. Complete your winter wedding guest look with heeled sandals and simple stud earrings that'll add subtle sparkle. 

Esther & Co. Amalee dress, $67, Esther & Co.

28. Pretty pleats

This flowy style features allover pleats, a plunging neckline, and dramatic bell sleeves. Choose the maxi length if you're looking for a formal winter wedding guest dress, or go with the midi length if it's a semi-formal affair.

Fame and Partners Larissa dress in Light Georgette/Forest Green, $355, Fame and Partners

29. All-out glamour 

If toning things down has never really been your style, you'll be happy to hear that a cocktail dress code is all about amping up the glamour. Winter wedding cocktail dresses are generally more extravagant than semi-formal 'fits. Take this fabulous purple midi, for example. A strapless neckline, figure-hugging silhouette, and ostrich feather trim are about as fun as you can get. Time to hit the dance floor! 

Curverra Lush Life purple ostrich feather dress, $73, Curverra

30. Velvet jumpsuit 

There's no shortage of winter-ready wedding guest outfits available on Rent the Runway. This velvet jumpsuit will definitely help you stay warm in chillier weather.  

Adelyn Rae Jeanine velvet jumpsuit, from $30 to rent, Rent the Runway

31. Cutout details

How's this for a festive winter wedding guest dress? The silky satin material and deep shade of red are a match made in heaven, especially at this time of year. Looking for long-sleeve winter wedding guest dresses? It's got that going for it too. If you'd rather pick up an outfit you can wear all year round, opt for the silvery sage hue. 

ASTR The Label Quinn cutout long-sleeve midi dress, $148, ASTR The Label

32. Ribbed midaxi

Dusty purple hues are extra beautiful in the transitional period between winter and spring. When you're not quite ready for bright pastels but rich, saturated hues feel a bit too dark, dusty in-between shades are your best friend. This long-sleeve ribbed maxi is an excellent cold-weather winter wedding outfit for January and February. 

ELOQUII twist detail ribbed dress, $100, ELOQUII

33. Subtle glamour

Here's another simple-but-sophisticated style you can easily rewear. This navy midi features a unique asymmetrical hem and a trendy cowl neckline.

Petal & Pup Cyrpus dress in Navy, $69, Petal & Pup

34. Gorgeous one-shoulder

In the mood for a designer moment? If you're prepared to splurge on something truly special, check out this Badgley Mischka masterpiece. The statement one-shoulder dress goes big on style, with eye-catching ruffles across the neckline, shoulder, and sleeve. The rest of the material is deep black velvet. Wear it to a formal wedding with classic accessories (think: black stilettos and diamond drop earrings).

Badley Mischka 80s pleated ruffle velvet dress, $550, Olivela

35. Teal maxi

There are so many different types of winter dresses you can wear to a wedding. We love this strappy maxi's flowing A-line skirt and deep teal hue. This beautiful color is a slightly more unique alternative to emerald green or navy.

Abercrombie & Fitch pleated maxi dress, $200, Abercrombie & Fitch

36. Wrap silhouette

You really can't go wrong with a wrap dress (or faux wrap dress, in this case), no matter the season. That said, this pick is particularly fitting for winter thanks to snug long sleeves and a navy hue. The tie waist adds a sweet, figure-defining detail. 

Leota blouson long-sleeve perfect wrap dress, $148, Leota

37. Faux feathers

Turn heads in this ankle-grazing maxi. The classic black hue certainly feels formal enough for this time of year, while the feather trim adds a fun, stylish touch. If it's a winter wedding cocktail dress you're searching for, complete the look with costume jewelry. Since the neckline is already making a statement on its own, avoid any over-the-top jewels around your neck. Instead, opt for earrings, bracelets, or a chic hair accessory. 

Rachel Gilbert Zion dress in Black, $1,695, Rachel Gilbert

38. Winter blooms

Green, red, and white adorn this beautiful floral maxi dress—basically the primary colors of the holiday season. The satin material and dark green hue make it a wonderful wedding guest dress for a formal winter celebration. 

Lulus Still The One emerald green floral print satin maxi dress, $94, Lulus

39. Edgy slip

Olivia von Halle pairs luxury elegance with just a hint of street style to create this beautiful slip. Bias-cut silk skims over your body in a breezy (but still flattering) silhouette. The crown jewels of this winter wedding guest dress are the gold chain straps. Chunky gold jewelry will coordinate perfectly. 

Olivia von Halle Bibi Fig silk satin slip dress, $615, Olivia von Halle

40. Ice blue

If Elsa from Frozen was a guest at a winter wedding, this is what she'd wear. Made from comfortable stretch satin, this tea-length party dress features a cowl neckline, corset back, and side slit. 

Azazie Ceci stretch satin dress in Dusty Blue, $99, Azazie