Fashion Forum

What to wear to a winter wedding

Burberry Prorsum Fall 2009; via Style.com

by Laura Milligan

In most parts of the country, June is wedding month. In Texas and the South, our Octobers pile up with wedding invitations because the worst of the heat is finally over, but for some couples it just makes sense to get hitched in the middle of the winter.

If you’re of a certain age, you’ve probably accumulated a sensible collection of summery cocktail dresses, and a solid stash of belts, shoes, and purses to mix between them during particularly busy — and traditionally timed — wedding seasons. But what are the rules for dressing up when it’s cold and blustery outside? Keep reading for our tips on what to wear to a winter wedding.

Tuxedo pants for girls has resurfaced as an acceptable cocktail or even black-tie trend in recent years, and if you’re going to wear pants to a wedding, this is pretty much the only option you’ve got, unless the dress code is jeans. But when you wear tuxedo pants, everything else you wear needs to be impeccably sophisticated and feminine: think jeweled peep-toes and satin halter tops.
Coat dresses provide enough structure and warmth to be dressy without looking out of season or like you’re going to the office (which tweed shifts can often do). Remember that a sleeveless or short sleeve edition will allow you more room and comfort on the dance floor and can be layered over sheer cashmere tees and long-sleeve shirts.
High-heeled boots are practical but stylish alternatives to sandals or even pumps. Pick boots with a delicate heel to amp up the dressy factor.
A good winter coat will protect you from the elements outside and drafty churches inside. Fur and fake fur make everything dressier, so accessorize with a coat or wrap that’s either all fur or fur-trimmed. And when we wrote about what to wear in Chicago during the winter, Cascade Communications president Jennifer Fortney pointed out that nothing’s better than a good down coat when it’s really freezing. Wear a cardigan underneath, and you’ll be ready to show off your party dress during the ceremony and reception.

And make sure that if you wear black, balance the heavy, moody color with a dress or accessory in a pretty, fresh pattern or hue. You are going to a wedding, after all.

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