Winter weddings are becoming more popular in recent years, and with charming candlelit venues and the general festive good cheer, it’s not hard to understand why. It’s easier to find venues outside of the peak season, and nobody’s disappointed if the weather is bad because you are prepared for it.

However, a winter wedding invitation does present the dilemma of what to wear. You don’t want to be shivering inside a chilly church or feeling frozen during the photograph session. Traditionally, most weddings have been held during the summer when it’s easy to find a nice dress and sandals to wear, but the colder weather brings more of a challenge.

Here are some suggestions about what to wear during a winter wedding, and a few styling tips. 

A dress with long or three-quarter length sleeves 

The fashion for modest dresses with longer sleeves, higher necklines and lower hemlines is a convenient one that is perfectly suited for more formal winter occasions. Dress it up with opaque tights and boots so that you are ready to deal with any kind of weather conditions. 

Take a cover-up

Even a long sleeved dress will not be warm enough on a chilly day, but neither do you want to be carrying a heavy coat around with you. Cashmere scarves, wraps, or stoles, are a  great option, because they look stylish and provide warmth without being heavy or feeling uncomfortable next to the skin. 

Alternatively, a cashmere cardigan can be a versatile option to either wear over a dress or throw over your shoulders. 

A tailored trouser suit

If dresses aren’t your thing, then a tailored trouser suit is a popular alternative. Instead of a shirt or blouse, opt for a contrasting feminine top in silk or lace. If you really want to bring the wow-factor in, look for sumptuous fabrics such as velvet, which are ultra glamorous and  ideally suited to colder weather.

A maxi skirt

A maxi skirt in a slinky shimmering fabric paired with a high-quality knitwear top is another fabulous alternative to a dress or trouser suit. Have fun with contrasting fabrics and textures throughout your whole outfit, with fluffy and feathery knits setting off shiny accessories such as large hoop earrings and a statement necklace.

A jumpsuit

The jumpsuit continues to be a fashionable choice for special occasions. They are generally sleeveless, so you will need a blazer, tuxedo, cardigan or wrap to keep you warm enough throughout the day. Jumpsuits can be a little more challenging to wear than a dress or trouser suit, but when styled well they can look elegant and on trend.

Solid colours tend to be more flattering than patterns. Make sure that your jumpsuit fits you really well and cinch it at the waist with a stylish belt to flatter your figure. Add some heels to give you some height and accessorise with metallic details.