Spring and summer may be endlessly popular seasons to host a wedding—but don’t underestimate the magical (and romantic!) vibes of winter. Frankly, just imagining all the twinkling lights and chances to cozy up with your boo is enough to sell anyone on this season. And if you've been invited to one of these dreamy winter nuptials, you get the added bonus of picking out the perfect ensemble. Thankfully, there's a treasure trove of winter wedding guest dresses out there—from sequined midis to velvet wraps—that are jaw-dropping options for a cold-weather soirée. Plus, if the wedding is taking place close to the holidays, that’s one more reason (read: excuse) to break out a fun, festive frock.
Whether you're attending a small, intimate wedding or a blow-out bash, there are so many gorgeous dresses from which to choose. If the ceremony is someplace extra-chilly, opt for a dress that covers your arms and legs—and invest in a good pair of tights, too. Or if you're headed to a wedding somewhere a little less cold, a one-shoulder mini or classic slip dress could be perfect. Whatever the sitch, you can't go wrong with something in rich colors (like deep greens and reds) or wintry fabrics (like velvet and satin). Below, shop 20 gorgeous winter wedding guest dresses that will get you so many compliments—second only to the people getting married, of course.
Our top picks for best winter wedding guest dresses of 2022:
BTW, you might as well shop for the perf wool coat that'll keep you warm and compliment your look! We've also tracked down some cute ballet flats to slip into at the end of the night and the chicest wedding guest dresses on Amazon that you’ll def wanna wear long after the ceremony. Yeah, we told you: we got you.
There's something about this maxi dress that's equal parts romantic, alluring, and dramatic. Could it be the deep v neck, the slit, the billowy sleeves, or the rich hue? IDK but we love it all.
For those who want something a little more unique, allow me to introduce you to this metallic zebra smock dress. With the fun print, open back, and bow detail, it's an adventurous choice for a winter wedding.
If you're not sure how formal the wedding is, you can't go wrong with this square neck mini. In high-shine satin, you'll be sure to dazzle all night in any color you choose.
this leopard bodycon
Good American Good Touch Long Sleeve Body-Con Midi Dress
this leopard bodycon
Good American Good Touch Long Sleeve Body-Con Midi Dress
If you don't mind standing out a bit, you can't go wrong with this leopard bodycon design. It's easy to dress up or down and you'll be so thankful for the long sleeves.
The iconic Norma Kamali ruched dress is here to stay, folks. You'll feel comfy (the material is stretch jersey) and like a total queen in this Elsa-vibes pick.
She's here to make an entrance and we're here for it! The halter neckline on this one shows off your shoulders and back, while the high slit makes it stand out from the rest. Pair it with sandals or embellished pumps for an extra dazzling flair.
Tis the season to sparkle! And you totally can in this stand-out pick featuring a chevron pattern, sweetheart neckline, major cut-outs, and sequins all over. For a winter wedding extravaganza, this one's a sure winner.
A wrap dress is a classic. Now pair it with velvet material, a pretty, deep teal colorway, tasteful ruching, jewel button pieces, and you've got a dress that checks all the boxes.
Not only is this maxi dress simply beautiful, but it'll keep your arms and legs a lil bit warmer than other styles. Plus, you can never go wrong with satin.
Oh, this is far from your ordinary bodycon dress. Look at that gorgeous olive-green shade, the ruching, the sleeves, that shine and silhouette! It's giving bodyyy.
this Cut-Out Moment
Lulus Garden Bliss Emerald Green Cutout Maxi Dress
this Cut-Out Moment
Lulus Garden Bliss Emerald Green Cutout Maxi Dress
I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best. I originally moved to New York City to audition for RENT, only to find out that the play closed 10 years ago.
Maggie Griswold (she/her) is a contributing fashion editor for Cosmopolitan and freelance writer and editor based in Los Angeles, covering everything from the latest wardrobe must-haves to interior design trends. Along with Cosmopolitan, you can find her work on Oprah Daily, StyleCaster, Women's Health, and House Digest, among others. She's a big (read: ridiculously huge) fan of the '90s sitcom Frasier, all things Shakespeare, and a good romance-filled YA novel. Follow her on Instagram.
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.