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37 of the Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Type of Dress Code

You can still look chic when it's chilly

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Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses Collage
Dasha Burobina/PureWow

Temperatures may be dropping, but your social calendar is filling up to the brim, meaning you’re likely in need of some new winter wedding guest dresses to work into rotation. Unlike spring and summer, when you can bank on breezy, brightly colored maxis and strappy little sundresses, winter creates the oh-so-fun challenge of trying to look seasonally appropriate without overheating (or freezing). It could also be hard not to resort to just plain ol’ black (although I do love a classic LBD moment, like this CeCe strapless dress, $129).

So what’s a gal to do? Well, from elegant minidresses ($228) to velvet maxis ($98), try one of these wintry party frocks on for size. After considering nearly 100 options and consulting an expert stylist, I culled this list down to the top 37 winter wedding guest dresses, so you know they’re legit. Trust me, they’re bound to bring in tons of compliments (without upstaging the bride, of course).

The 10 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses at a Glance

1

Best Knit Dress

Reformation Josefina Knit Dress

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2

Best Tuxedo-Inspired Dress

Ieena for Mac Duggal Long Sleeve Tuxedo Gown

read more

3

Best Country Wedding Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Off-the-Shoulder Dress

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4

Best Flutter-Sleeve Dress

BHLDN Deep-V Leila Satin Dress

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5

Best Slip Dress

Birdy Grey Lisa Midi Dress

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Meet the Expert

Caitlin Burke is a stylist and consultant who has worked on the New York City fashion scene for 17 years. She collaborates with established designers (Altuzarra, Rosie Assoulin) as well as exciting emerging designers, such as Palmier NYC and Mayson the Label. Burke also works with private clients and celebrities, like Sarita Choudhury from And Just Like That…, and has been the styling hand behind some of your favorite editorial spreads.

How I Chose the Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses 

In addition to considering Burke's expert advice, my top priority was providing a range of options, from length to fit, color and size, so you could discover the perfect frock. But I also made sure to highlight styles both timeless and trendy, and only the best-rated versions of both, to pull together a list that will have you covered for every type of wedding event and dress code.

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Best Knit Dress

1. Reformation Josefina Knit Dress

What I Like

  • off-the-shoulder neckline
  • slight ruching
  • stretchy fabric

What I Don't Like

  • pricey

Reformation

This long knit dress will have you feeling cozy without sacrificing style. An off-the-shoulder neckline with some slight ruching combined with a deep mahogany color adds a bit of a sultry feel to a winter wedding. Although it's form-fitting, it's made of the brand's Cotton Comfy fabric that is both eco-friendly and stretchy to ensure a comfortable fit. (And ICYDK, Reformation offers free hemming at a ton of locations nationwide, so even petites can count on getting the best possible fit.)

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL

Best Tuxedo-Inspired Dress

2. Ieena for Mac Duggal Long Sleeve Tuxedo Gown

What I Like

  • tuxedo-inspired
  • good-quality fabric
  • split is more modest IRL

What I Don't Like

  • expensive

Ieena for Mac Duggal

Looking for a more unique take on "black tie"? This tuxedo dress puts a sexy and chic twist on menswear. Its surplice neckline and satin lapels provide the perfect dash of class, while the ruching on the bodice creates an incredibly flattering shape. And though the slit at the side is certainly leggy, reviewers assure that it's less intense IRL than it looks in the photo, so the gown is wedding-appropriate from head to hem. As for the polyester construction, buyers say it has some nice weight to it, making it ideal for wintertime.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 2 to 16

Best Country Wedding Dress

3. Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Off-the-Shoulder Dress

What I Like

  • flattering ruched bodice
  • off-the-shoulder neckline
  • flowy, high-low skirt

What I Don't Like

  • dry-clean only
  • not very stretchy

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch has quickly become one of my go-tos for dress shopping—the brand even has an entire wedding guest shop that's full of hip, classic and generally gorgeous numbers for all sorts of wedding vibes. Got a country/barn/woodsy event in your future? I'm partial to this sage green midi for both the floral cottagecore aesthetic and the subtly sexy, off-the-shoulder neckline. Let's just say the billowy organza skirt and princess-like puff sleeves would like right at home in fields of green. Just note, while it has a smocked bodice for a bit of wiggle room, the fabric itself doesn’t stretch, so if you’re between sizes you’ll likely be more comfortable in the larger of the two (especially if you have a fuller bust).

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL

Best Flutter-Sleeve Dress

4. BHLDN Deep-V Leila Satin Dress

What I Like

  • flattering silhouette
  • multiple colors

What I Don't Like

  • not bra-friendly
  • not machine-washable

BHLDN

This satin maxi is the definition of classy and elegant. It comes in a bunch of different colors (though I can’t help but be drawn to the rich forest green) and has a sultry V-neckline to complement the billowy draped bodice and angelic flutter sleeves. The streamlined cut needs no embellishment, but I think it’d pair well with some stacked bracelets or dramatic earrings for some extra-special sparkle.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL

Best Slip Dress

5. Birdy Grey Lisa Midi Dress

What I Like

  • adjustable straps
  • lots of colors
  • extended sizing

What I Don't Like

  • many colors are made-to-order and will take longer to arrive

Birdy Grey

This timeless silhouette of this satin slip dress will never go out of style, and works for just about any dress code (and season). The straps are adjustable for those who don’t want to show quite so much cleavage, and it’s fully lined for extra comfort. If you have to travel from ceremony to reception, I recommend adding a faux fur wrap ($98) to drape over your bare shoulders. Plus, there are a ton of color options (28, to be exact!) for you to choose from. Just note that most pieces are made-to-order, so you'll want to allow yourself enough time to receive it. Of course, it'll be totally worth the wait at this price.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to 3X

Best Drop-Waist Dress

6. Lovers and Friends Aria Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • flattering cut
  • trendy silhouette
  • weighty material

What I Don't Like

  • some reviewers say it runs small

Lovers and Friends

Fit-and-flare is a cut that’ll never go out of style, but this drop-waist take is especially trendy—and accentuates the figure in the best way possible (in fact, the word "snatched" is used in the review section, which is always a good sign). The fitted top is made of a thicker material and features thin straps that can be layered with a wrap, while the flowy skirt is made of heavyweight crepe fabric that's slightly pleated for extra structure. Twirl-worthy, indeed. Reviewers do recommend sizing up if you’re busty, as it runs small up top. And did I mention it has pockets?

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL

Best Velvet Dress

7. Lulus Beautiful Evenings Dress

What I Like

  • touch of spandex for stretch
  • flattering draping

What I Don't Like

  • some reviewers say the neckline is lower than expected

Lulus

Goddess of winter, is that you? The Grecian-inspired pleating and sultry slit of this velvet maxi dress couldn’t be more elegant or flattering, and, as a bonus, it’s super comfortable, per buyers. I love that it’s fully lined, so it should keep you feeling cozy, and the back darting means it’ll fit like a glove. You might want to pull out some body tape to keep the low surplice neckline in place, but once you’re feeling secure you’ll be set for an amazing evening ahead full of compliments.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL

Best Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dress

8. Amanda Uprichard Queen Gown

What I Like

  • classy halter neck
  • darting for a streamlined fit

What I Don't Like

  • on the longer side
  • will require hemming for shorter folks

Amanda Uprichard

Channel your inner ‘90s starlet in this sleek floor-length gown that’s so ready for a black-tie wedding. The choker-style halter neck shows off your shoulders while looking oh-so-refined, and the simple cut is taken up a notch with the daring front slit. Note that this dress is made from a crepe polyester and is only partially lined, so it may be a bit breezy if you plan on spending time outdoors. Nevertheless, reviewers say that it’s the perfect medium-weight material for a formal gown, and many confirm that it’s ideal for extra-fancy affairs.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL

Best Pleated Dress

9. Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Dress

What I Like

  • pleated material flows beautifully for dancing

What I Don't Like

  • bodice can feel tight

Abercrombie & Fitch

If you feel like bringing some colorful flair to your next winter event, may I suggest this dark pink stunner? Pleated from bodice down and featuring an asymmetrical hem, this satin-y dress is a true head-turner (not least of all due to its cutout back). And if you’re not into the hot pink look, it’s equally eye-catching in the teal and dark green colors that I'd also consider total winners for the winter months.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL

Best Maternity Wedding Guest Dress

10. Quince Silk Maternity Dress

What I Like

  • removable/adjustable tie belt to accommodate different belly sizes
  • machine-washable silk

What I Don't Like

  • some reviewers say it runs large

Quince

Looking for something wedding- and bump-friendly? This luxe, mulberry silk dress is your answer. It features a removable belt around the midsection so you can accentuate or hide your bump as you please. The short sleeves makes it easy to move about without feeling restricted or overheated, while the V-neck and split hem keep it from feeling too maternity. The best part? Despite being made of 100 percent silk, it's completely machine-washable. No wonder multiple reviewers write that they'll be wearing this beauty long after their delivery date.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL

Best Cocktail Dress

11. CeCe Contrast Strapless Dress

What I Like

  • white strip of fabric
  • machine-washable

What I Don't Like

  • might be too form fitting for some

Cece

I may have found the perfect cocktail dress…and I don’t say that lightly. You’ll be pulling out this strapless, form-hugging beauty for multiple events, as it’s a classic with just a little something extra to make it stand out. And by that I mean the colorblocked white trim with a crystal bow accent that elevates the basic black look. It's a little Breakfast at Tiffany's and a whole lot of chic.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 16

Best Tiered Dress

12. Lulus I Love You Amore Dress

What I Like

  • adjustable straps
  • trendy tiered skirt

What I Don't Like

  • some reviewers say it fits tight in the bust

Lulus

This romantic velvet dress is what winter wedding dreams are made of, from the cascading tiered skirt, complete with leggy slit, to the elegant V-neckline and beautifully detailed burnout velvet florals. One shopper notes it’s the “perfect winter wedding guest dress,” and I agree. However, the rayon and nylon fabric has little stretch and runs a bit small in the bust, according to reviews, so if you’re between sizes I suggest sizing up.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL

Best Winter Floral Dress

13. Tuckernuck Baroque Floral Maria Dress

What I Like

  • wintry florals
  • boned bodice
  • has pockets

What I Don't Like

  • may be too tight for larger busts

Tuckernuck

While some florals call to mind breezy summer events, the moody dark floral print on this slightly pleated fit-and-flare number is definitely wintry. The neckline has a bit of a dip without being a true sweetheart, while the bustier-inspired bodice has structured boning that reviewers claim removes the need for a bra. Not to mention, there are pockets!

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 14

Best Bow-Accented Dress

14. Mac Duggal Bow Front Gown

What I Like

  • retro silhouette
  • bold bow detail
  • has pockets

What I Don't Like

  • spot-clean only

Mac Duggal

Bows fall in and out of fashion year after year, but I'm happy to report that this year, they're totally in. And in that case, this strapless frock has got you covered. The curved darting on the bodice creates an instant hourglass effect, and the oversized, whimsical bow at the neckline is the icing on the cake. A bit of tulle under the skirt creates that ballgown-esque volume, but isn’t enough to be overwhelming or costumey. Reviewers praise the quality of the material, and I think that, overall, it’s a classic enough silhouette to rock for many events to come. And, yes, it has pockets!

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 14

Best Minimalist Dress

15. SNDYS x Revolve Angel Dress

What I Like

  • bias cut
  • lovely sheen

What I Don't Like

  • unlined

Revolve

A slinky, minimalist dress allows for creative customization, whether that's through the addition of layers or accessories, making this column style full of possibilities. It's cut on the bias, so it’ll flow beautifully without being constricting, while the rayon/viscose blend creates a luxurious sheen. The dress has a hidden zip closure, but is unlined, so keep that in mind when planning your undergarments.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL

Best Figure-Hugging Dress

16. Abercrombie & Fitch Ava Dress

What I Like

  • ruched bodice
  • soft material

What I Don't Like

  • straps aren't adjustable

Abercrombie & Fitch

If you want your dress to highlight your figure and not take the spotlight, reach for this form-grazing number, featuring a stretchy cotton-blend knit that'll hug every curve. The flirty square neckline and ruched bodice give it some extra oomph that’ll set it apart from all the other silk and satin dresses at cocktail hour. Better yet, the slit at the side opens it up for room to move (and dance!).

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL

Best Mock-Neck Dress

17. The Somerset Maxi Dress Mock-Neck Edition

What I Like

  • shimmering pattern
  • mock neck

What I Don't Like

  • a lot of fabric

Anthropologie

Anthropologie's popular Somerset maxi has been elevated to a wedding-appropriate frock with this mock-neck number. I mean, the shimmery paisley pattern and elegant emerald hue were practically made for a winter soiree. The soft pleats combined with pillowy sleeves add some visual interest but still lets the fabric be the star. With sizes in petite, regular and pus, this dress will fit most heights (with or without heels), and it’s got the positive reviews from all body types to prove it.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL (petite, regular, plus)

Best One-Shoulder Dress

18. Dress the Population Tiffany Bow Dress

What I Like

  • tie accent
  • back vent opens up the bodycon silhouette

What I Don't Like

  • some reviewers say it runs small
  • hand-wash only

Dress the Population

I love the cute bow detail on this sleek midi, which dresses up the classic one-shoulder design to add some wedding-appropriate pizzazz. The fitted sheath silhouette is seamed to keep your midsection supported and offer structure, and shoppers say it complements their curves in the best way.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL

Best Budget-Friendly Wedding Guest Dress

19. Cupshe Satin Surplice Wrap Minidress

What I Like

  • soft polyester material
  • affordable

What I Don't Like

  • dress may be quite short on taller gals

Cupshe

An elegant, satin dress for under $40 is a total steal. I love that the classic silhouette hugs the figure in all the right places while providing a drapey, faux-wrap front that’s universally flattering. The surplice neckline, meanwhile, adds a bit of visual interest without being too risqué.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: S to XL

Best Cowl-Neck Dress

20. Supesu Satin Slip Dress

What I Like

  • adjustable straps
  • anti-wrinkle material
  • affordable

What I Don't Like

  • some reviewers say the quality differs between colors

Supesu

Cowl necks are back, especially when they’re as “Y2K cool girl” as this relaxed, slinky number. One reviewer says, “this dress is SO flattering. It doesn’t feel baggy and it accentuates my curves, but still feels roomy and not clingy like a bodycon dress.” Once you’ve dressed this slip dress up with heels and some sparkles, keep it at the front of your closet to pair with sneakers, tights and a leather jacket all winter long. At just $56, it’ll give you more than your money’s worth.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XXL

Best Off-the-Shoulder Dress

21. Lulus How Much I Care Dress

What I Like

  • touch of stretch
  • off-the-shoulder neckling
  • affordable

What I Don't Like

  • may be loose in the hips if you’re less curvy

Lulus

You’ll feel like a total Hollywood glamazon in this well-reviewed dress that promises to hug your curves and show off your shoulders. Reviewers love the weight and stretch of the material, with some even saying that they felt confident enough to go braless and still felt secure. The no-slip strips on the sweetheart neckline and darting on the bodice means you won’t be tugging it up all night, and the ruffled trumpet skirt adds a flirty touch you’ll adore.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL

Best Sequin Mini

22. Mac Duggal Sequin Bishop Dress

What I Like

  • festive sequins
  • mesh panel at the neckline can camouflage a nude bra

What I Don't Like

  • spot-clean only

Mac Duggal

When looking for a minidress for an especially festive winter wedding, you’ll want to balance the length with a little something extra on top. The strong shoulders and blouson sleeves of this sequined mini are the perfect pairing with the shorter length, and I love the pleated detailing at the bust. One reviewer comments that the material is “soft and stretchy” as well, a rare find in a sequined dress.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 14

Best Lace Dress

23. Lulus Perfect Tendencies Dress

What I Like

  • lace accents
  • faux button detailing

What I Don't Like

  • runs small

Lulus

Sometimes you want a timeless black dress—and this one is perfection. It's elevated with long lace sleeves and a sweet lacy skirt with a slit in the front. IMO, it'll make you feel like you just stepped out of a Parisian wine bar (in the best way). Buttons line the front for a hint of modern gothic, but don't worry, they can't be undone.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to M

Best Metallic Dress

24. Mac Duggal Ruffle Tiered Buckle Detail Dress

What I Like

  • shiny material
  • tiered ruffles

What I Don't Like

  • difficult to clean

Mac Duggal

If the winter wedding you’re attending is a real party (perhaps on New Year's Eve), you'll want a dress that really shines. This tiered pick is full of eye-catching details, from the tinsel-esque impression to the gathered fabric and waist tie that holds it all together. Just note you'll need to do some spot cleaning to keep it refreshed.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 16

Best Silk Dress

25. Reformation Silk Casette Dress

What I Like

  • 100 percent silk
  • slight ruching

What I Don't Like

  • open back requires a backless bra

Reformation

She’s silky, she’s satiny, she’s a supermodel in dress form. There’s something so sophisticated about a high neckline paired with the surprise of an open back, and this dress doesn’t disappoint in either department. The ruching at the sides of the waist gives a cinched effect while providing a bit of room (a little extra give for that second passing of pigs in a blanket during cocktail hour), and the open back comes to a slight point, subtly accenting your, *ahem,* assets.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 12

Best Ruffle Dress

26. ASTR the Label Biella Ruffle Detail Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • tons of ruffles
  • cutout bodice
  • slit balances the high neckline

What I Don't Like

  • dry-clean only

ASTR the Label

The more frills, the better the twirl, right? With a tiered asymmetrical skirt adorned with ruffles—not to mention the ruffles lining the side waist cutouts—you'll be swinging in style in this dress. The high neckline and long sleeves provide a classy contrast to the flashes of leg you’ll be showing with each step thanks to the skirt slit, keeping the look balanced and event-appropriate.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to L

Best Ruched Dress

27. Norma Kamali Diana Gown

What I Like

  • flattering ruching
  • asymmetrical hem

What I Don't Like

  • pricey

Norma Kamali

Ruching: It’s the answer to achieving both comfort and a figure-hugging fit, and when it’s done in a soft stretch material, you get a dress you won’t want to take off. The one shoulder on this number draws attention to your face (it’s definitely a dress that looks good with an updo!), and the ruching all the way down to the asymmetrical hem highlights, yet flatters, all your curves. No wonder it's a top seller at Revolve.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to S

Best Wrap-Style Dress

28. Azazie Marnie Vintage Rose Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • large leg slit
  • wide side range

What I Don't Like

  • bow can’t be untied

Azazie

A plunging V-neckline and a slit down the side make this wrap-style dress a stand out. There are nice little details that help pull it all together, like the silicone pads on the shoulders to keep it from slipping and a little button in front that keeps the neckline secure. The dusty floral pattern is cinched up with a belt tie—although you won't need to actually tie it like a traditional wrap dress; in other words, it's a great way to get the elegant effect without the effort.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 30

Best Destination Wedding Guest Dress

29. Farm Rio Sand Palms Scarf Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • long
  • dramatic volume
  • open back

What I Don't Like

  • can feel a bit delicate

Farm Rio

Bring some appropriate drama to your next destination wedding in this equal parts beachy and elegant beauty. I'm obsessed with this tropical maxi that is filled with vibrant embroidery along the bold print of palm leaves. The cinched waist gives the dress a flattering shape, and the flowing sleeves will keep you covered when the sun goes down. Plus, the keyhole slit at the back adds a little visual intrigue when you walk onto the dance floor.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL

Best Mixed Media Dress

30. Aqua Pleated Shimmer Gown

What I Like

  • mixed media
  • accordion pleated skirt
  • super fun

What I Don't Like

  • dry-clean only

AQUA

Two contrasting fabrics means twice the fun. Here, a sleek, velvety V-neck top is made a little more exciting by a shimmering accordion skirt that will make you the belle of the ball while you twirl. Think of it as two pieces in one. The deep cut of the neckline and slim straps might make for a challenging bra situation, but luckily there's built-in bust padding to save the day.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 18

Best Winter Minidress

31. Tuckernuck Fil Coupe Palmerston Dress

What I Like

  • pops of color
  • tiered nap dress style

What I Don't Like

  • dry-clean only

Tuckernuck

There are minidresses and then there are grownup minidresses—and this one’s the latter. The blurred edges on this print make it feel like a vintage find, and the tiered silhouette gets a mature twist with a ruffled stand collar and long sleeves. Bright florals pop against the slightly sheer texture (that is completely lined) for an elevated party dress that still feels fun and flouncy.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXXL

Best Strapless Dress

32. Donna Karan Strapless Fit & Flare Midi Dress

What I Like

  • fit-and-flare style
  • bandeau neckline

What I Don't Like

  • dry-clean only

Donna Karan

Not your average strapless number, this chic fit-and-flare dress boasts a pleated silhouette that conveniently hides handy pockets at the sides. You’ll get a hint of seasonal shimmer throughout, thanks to the shiny finish of the polyester fabric. Meanwhile, the bandeau neckline and zip back should help to prevent any mishaps on the dance floor, even for larger busted ladies.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 2 to 14

Best Plus-Size Dress

33. Bloomchic Floral Flocked Tulle Dress

What I Like

  • lace peaking out
  • affordable
  • machine-washable

What I Don't Like

  • may run large, according to reviews

Bloomchic

A gorgeous floral tulle overlays this plus-size-friendly frock, only peaking out slightly at the hem and side slit for a pop of skin-showing sheer. The slight V-neck feels appropriate for a blac- tie affair and you'll be blessed with a hidden side pocket to stash a phone or backup lipstick. If you want a little more color, it's available in green and burgundy as well.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 10 to 30

Best Vintage-Inspired Dress

34. Bbonlinedress Vintage Velvet Cocktail Dress

What I Like

  • longer sleeves
  • a bit of stretch
  • lots of colors to choose from

What I Don't Like

  • some reviewers say it’s tighter in the bust

Bbonlinedress

Vintage-inspired indeed, this dress hits perfectly at the natural waist and then flows out into a full, swingy skirt à la the frocks of the 1950s. The pleating at the bustline is both flattering and supportive (although some reviewers note that it fits a little tight if you’re large-chested), while the longer sleeves are fitted, but have some stretch, so you won’t feel constricted. While both cotton and velvet poly options are available in this dress, I love the plush velvet for a winter event. The fact that it's less than $50? Even better.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to 3X

Best Modest Wedding Guest Dress

35. ASTR the Label Quinn Floral Cutout Maxi Dress

What I Like

  • subtle back cutout
  • modest look
  • puffed sleeves

What I Don't Like

  • material doesn’t have stretch

ASTR the Label

Looking for a dress that won’t stop at just one winter wedding? Thanks to its mostly modest impression, I can see this floral number easily transitioning from a work cocktail party to a more formal event with just a change of accessories. The cinched waist seam provides a flattering look and highlights the bust without the need to show any skin, and the puffed sleeves add a feminine touch. Despite its subtle cutout at the back, this design is certainly modest enough for a more traditional wedding event, and it comes in several pattern options.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL

Best Feather-Accented Dress

36. Tuckernuck Feather Mod Ellie Dress

What I Like

  • playful sleeves
  • straight look with mockneck

What O Don't Like

  • may be too short if you’re on the tall side
  • dry-clean only

Tuckernuck

A little pouf of feathers can go a long way. This bold red dress is all the more playful thanks to the embellished cuffs that will have you shaking your tail feathers all night long. The otherwise minimalist mini (featuring a chic high neck) comes in a few other toned-down colors that are just as fabulous, but be sure to take special care while cleaning it (dry-clean only!) as to not disrupt the feathers.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL

Best Puff-Sleeve Dress

37. Hutch Printed Twist-Front Dress

What I Like

  • puff sleeves provide arm coverage
  • smocked back for stretch

What I Don't Like

  • some reviewers say the sleeves slide down

Hutch

From the softly textured material to the flouncy skirt, this puff-sleeved dress is simply darling. The bodice is fitted, but with the stretch of the smocked back panel, you should be able to breathe easy (and wear your favorite bra). The hem is full of swoops and ruffles, so it’ll move beautifully as you glide from the reception all the way to the after-party. Some reviews do mention that the shoulders can fall down, depending on your bust size, but a little body tape will solve that issue in a flash. 

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to 3X

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

Don’t worry, you won’t have to completely overhaul your approach to wedding guest dressing just because there’s a chill in the air. While there are have long-sleeve options, and some more wintry color palettes on my list below, Burke tells me she approaches winter wedding guest dressing “similarly to how [she approaches] dressing for summer weddings, just with a few strategic additions,” such as a tailored coat or a unique brooch (which gives “a personal touch and a little more formality”). Burke is also a fan of sheer tights under a mini for a winter wedding, noting that some luxe hosiery can really up the style ante.

What Do You Wear to a Wedding Over Your Dress When It’s Cold

Burke’s recommendation of a classic tailored coat is one of my favorites, but I also love that faux fur wraps are back in style, as they add a bit of vintage glamour to any outfit.

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Courtney Campbell

Freelance Writer

Courtney covers all things shopping and lifestyle at PureWow. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Elon University and has spent more than five years of her career writing and editing shopping content. She has also tested everything from kombucha kits to standing desks for product reviews. With a passion for service journalism, she loves covering food, lifestyle and home content. You can follow her on Instagram or see more of her experience on LinkedIn.

Anna headshot

Freelance Writer

Anna Vognsen received her B.A. in English Literature from Trinity College. She has been writing commerce content for PureWow since 2023 and is forever and always a deal hunter. She covers verticals including beauty, parenthood and fashion. Prior to covering shopping content, Anna worked in the fashion industry for 17 years in trend forecasting as a market analyst, womenswear and children’s apparel sales. Most recently, she managed the U.S. education program for Canada Goose.

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.