Elegant dresses, real-life inspiration, and the pieces I actually wear
There’s something special about a winter wedding. The candlelight, the cozy venues, the excuse to dress up when the rest of the world is in puffer coats. But the moment that invitation arrives, the same question follows: What am I going to wear?
I’ve been there. More than once.
Today I’m sharing what actually works—starting with the dress I’m wearing above and including my Mother of the Groom look from my son’s wedding in 2023. We’ll cover fabrics that photograph beautifully, silhouettes that flatter, and options at every price point. Consider this your guide to looking polished and feeling confident, no matter your role at the celebration. And ladies, good news, as Cyber Monday Sales are still going strong! Check out our comprehensive Cyber Monday Deals. I did some damage at J.McLaughlin and Frank and Eileen…
Here’s What You’ll Find in This Post:
• The black taffeta wrap dress I’m wearing (and how I styled it)
• What to look for in a winter wedding dress
• The best colors for the season
• More dress options worth considering
• My Mother of the Groom jumpsuit from 2023
• Where I shop for occasion dresses
• How to stay warm and still look chic
• What to wear underneath
• FAQs about winter wedding guest attire
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Congratulations, Sherry Ulrich! You are the November winner of the $100 Amazon Gift Card! Please email me at beth@styleatacertainage.com, and we will send the gift card post haste. But don’t worry, ladies, we’re still celebrating the season — and to thank you for being here, I’m hosting a Holiday Gift Card Raffle for December!
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The Look: Black Taffeta Wrap Dress
This dress is everything I look for in winter formal wear: structure, movement, and just enough drama.
The taffeta is substantial without feeling heavy. The sheer balloon sleeves add romance while providing the arm coverage many of you prefer. And that oversized bow at the waist? It defines the waist and lets the full skirt do its thing. Universally flattering—and perfect for dancing.
I kept the accessories polished but simple: silver metallic pumps, a crystal mesh evening bag, and minimal jewelry. This Dakota necklace was the perfect finishing touch—elegant without competing with the dress.
What to Look for in a Winter Wedding Dress
After years of attending (and dressing for) winter weddings, here’s what I’ve learned:
Fabric matters. Velvet, taffeta, satin, silk, crepe—these are your friends. They photograph beautifully, feel luxurious, and keep you warm without adding bulk.
Silhouette is everything. A-line, fit-and-flare, and wrap styles are universally flattering. They define the waist and skim the rest. No clinging, no tugging, no fussing all night.
Sleeve options exist. Long sleeves, three-quarter sleeves, sheer illusion sleeves—you don’t have to choose between coverage and style. There are beautiful options out there.
Length depends on venue. Midi works for almost everything. Floor-length for black-tie. Knee-length for cocktail. When in doubt, midi is your safest bet.
The Best Colors for Winter Weddings
Winter calls for rich, saturated hues. Jewel tones and deep neutrals look stunning against candlelit venues and snowy backdrops.
My favorites: emerald green, burgundy, navy, plum, forest green, champagne, black, and midnight blue. These colors feel celebratory without competing with the wedding party.
✨ Beth’s Style Tip: If you’re unsure about black at a wedding, try navy or deep burgundy—equally sophisticated, and they feel a bit more festive.
More Dresses Worth Considering
My dress isn’t the only option. Here are styles I love—each one elegant, flattering, and appropriate for a winter celebration.
Velvet Midi Dress
Velvet is the winter wedding fabric. It’s warm, luxurious, and inherently festive. Look for a midi length with long sleeves and a defined waist. Anthropologie’s Somerset Velvet Maxi is gorgeous, as is the Eloise Boat Neck Stretch Velvet Dress. Kelly recently featured this dress on Petite Winter Wedding Guest, and Nordstrom has beautiful options, like the Maggy London Cap Sleeve Midi Dress or the Mac Duggal Fit & Flare Embellished Illusion Dress.
Satin A-Line Gown
For black-tie, a satin gown in navy, emerald, or burgundy is timeless. The fabric catches candlelight beautifully—trust me on this. Look for subtle draping or a cowl neckline for added elegance. Or for a semi-formal wedding, this Burgundy Twist Bodice Dress is perfection.
Lace Midi with Sleeves
Lace reads romantic and refined. A forest green or navy lace midi with three-quarter sleeves offers coverage without sacrificing style. Add a faux fur stole for outdoor photos, and you’re set.
The Jumpsuit Alternative
Not a dress person? A jumpsuit can be just as elegant—sometimes more so.
This is what I wore as Mother of the Groom at my son’s wedding in 2023: an Alexia Maria one-shoulder jumpsuit in burgundy with a dramatic overskirt. The tailored pants gave me freedom to move and dance, while the sweeping skirt kept it black-tie appropriate. That bow at the shoulder? Just the right amount of drama. If you missed that post, you can read it here Winter Wedding Recap.
For wedding guests, you don’t need the overskirt—a sleek, wide-leg jumpsuit in velvet or crepe makes a sophisticated statement on its own. Pair with gold accessories, and you’re done.
Where I Shop for Occasion Dresses
These are my go-to retailers for elegant, age-appropriate formal wear:
Nordstrom — Great range of designers, easy returns, and excellent alterations. Pro tip: check the mother-of-the-bride section for longer, more covered styles even if you’re attending as a guest.
Anthropologie — Beautiful velvet and satin options with unique details. Their BHLDN line has stunning formal pieces.
Alexia Maria — Where my MOG jumpsuit came from. Perfect for when you want something truly special.
Karen Millen — Sophisticated, structured pieces with impeccable tailoring.
Rent the Runway — Designer dresses for a fraction of the price. Great if you want something special without the long-term commitment.
How to Stay Warm (and Still Look Chic)
No one wants to shiver through cocktail hour. Here’s how I stay warm without sacrificing style:
A faux fur stole or wrap adds instant glamour—and warmth. Drape it for photos, then check it once you’re inside. Velvet and wool dresses naturally insulate better than chiffon or silk. Closed-toe shoes are a must; save the strappy sandals for summer. And don’t underestimate a beautiful coat in black, camel, or a jewel tone—it can be part of the outfit, not just a cover-up.
What to Wear Underneath
Let’s talk about what no one sees—but everyone notices if it’s wrong.
The right undergarments can make or break a formal dress. A beautiful gown means nothing if you’re tugging at your bra all night or worried about visible lines. Here’s what I’ve learned:
Seamless is essential. Taffeta, satin, and velvet show everything. Seamless underwear in a nude-to-you shade disappears under even the most unforgiving fabrics. I’m a fan of EBY’s seamless basics—they stay put, they’re comfortable, and they’re invisible under formalwear.
Consider your neckline. One-shoulder dress? You need a convertible or strapless bra that actually stays up. Deep V? Look for a plunge style. Sheer sleeves or an open back? There are adhesive and backless options that work beautifully. Plan this before the day of—trust me.
Shapewear is personal. Some women love it, some don’t. If you wear it, choose a style that’s comfortable enough for hours of sitting, standing, and dancing. If it’s digging in or rolling down, it’s not the right piece. Comfort matters as much as smoothing.
✨ Beth’s Style Tip: Great outfits start with what no one sees. Invest in your base layers the same way you invest in the dress itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Winter Wedding Guest Attire
Can you wear black to a wedding?
Absolutely. Black is elegant, timeless, and entirely appropriate. Just choose a dress with beautiful details or interesting texture so it feels celebratory, not somber.
What should a woman over 50 wear to a winter wedding?
A midi or floor-length dress in velvet, taffeta, or satin. Look for flattering silhouettes—A-line, wrap, or fit-and-flare. Jewel tones and deep neutrals work beautifully for winter.
What colors should you avoid?
White, ivory, and cream—those are reserved for the bride. Also skip anything too casual or too revealing for the occasion.
Is velvet appropriate for a winter wedding?
Velvet is perfect for winter weddings. Luxurious, warm, and inherently festive. Emerald, burgundy, and navy are especially beautiful.
Can I wear pants instead of a dress?
Yes. A dressy jumpsuit or elegant wide-leg trousers with a formal top are appropriate alternatives. Choose luxe fabrics and polished accessories.
What shoes work best?
Closed-toe pumps, ankle boots, or block heels in metallic, velvet, or suede. Warmer and more season-appropriate than strappy sandals.
What should the mother of the groom wear?
A floor-length gown or elegant jumpsuit in a jewel tone. Coordinate with the wedding colors if possible, but prioritize a silhouette that makes you feel confident. An overskirt or cape detail adds drama without being over-the-top.
Closing Thoughts
Winter Wedding Guest Attire
A winter wedding is a chance to dress up, celebrate love, and feel beautiful. The right dress isn’t about trends—it’s about fit, fabric, and feeling like yourself.
Whether you’re a guest, Mother of the Bride, or Mother of the Groom, the formula is the same: quality fabric, flattering silhouette, and accessories that feel like you.
What’s your go-to winter wedding look? Tell me in the comments—I’d love to hear what works for you.
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