35 Winter Wedding Guest Dresses Sure to Impress

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Holiday nuptials demand a certain standard from the guests' wardrobe—if you don't opt for classic black, you'll likely mill amongst a rich palette of greens, reds, metals, and other decadent colors. A New Year's wedding? Better relish the embellishments and select a sparkling frock. A more subdued affair? A sleek velvet or iconic boatneck dress is sure to do the trick. And who could forget the actual physical demands of warmth, or at least layerability under a gorgeous coat? With all this in mind and more, we have gathered the best 35 winter wedding dresses sure to attract compliments all season long.

Cape-Detailed Satin Gown

A cape gown accomplishes several tasks at once. Full-coverage offers protection against the chill (outdoor heat lamps only do so much), while its stunning chartreuse color way flatters just about everyone. Designer Wes Gordon created the gown inspired by Sisi, a 19th-century Empress of Austria, to capture a spirit of "old-world regality with playful modernity."

Size Range: 2-8
Material: 58% polyester, 37% polyamide, 5% elastane

Dress the Population Kai Evening Gown in Rouge

A deep pink is all the rage this year, ubiquitous enough to practically be a neutral yet bold enough to fit the elevated demands of winter wear. A sweetheart neck and flared slit style add sophistication to the look, with reviewers praising its quality fit.

Size Range: XXS-XXL
Material: 97% polyester, 3% spandex

Exclusive Phoenix in Noir Primitif Sequined Midi Dress

Start off with a bang with an elegant sequined midi dress striking enough to turn heads but classic enough to blend in with the dress code. This fitted ankle-length column dress has large black sequins that catch the light in a Moda Operandi exclusive.

Size Range: 2-8
Material: 100% polyester

The Old Garden Maxi Dress

Headed to a more tropical wedding? Bridge the season with the setting with this best-of-both-worlds gown. A dark floral motif is always en vogue for wintertime, while the 100 percent silk construction and relaxed fit are beyond comfortable. The dress also features a sleeveless v-neck, adjustable belt, and back-zip closure.

Size Range: 0-12
Material: 100% silk; 50% metal, 50% glass trim

Women's Off-The-Shoulder Tulle Gown

This delicate tulle gown indulges dreams of ballgowns and royal sensibilities. A beautiful pleated bustier-style bodice and flared tulle skirt appear dreamy and airy, while the rich watercolor palette evokes visions of parties past.

Size Range: 2-22
Material: Tulle

Women's Kate Slit-Detail Boatneck Gown

A boatneck gown is a chic choice for a woman of any age, flattering the silhouette in a mature way. Available in four colorways, this floor-length Saks exclusive features three-quarter sleeves, front and back shaping darts, and a faux-wrap skirt with ruffle accent. As a bonus, the bottom has a raw-edged hem for ease of tailoring, making it an effortless pick for a packed holiday schedule.

Size Range: 2-18
Material: polyamide/elastane

Halran Belted Pleated Knee-Length Dress

For a versatile look, wear the Ralph Lauren's Harlan knee-length dress (and get plenty of use in the soirées ahead.) A round neck, vibrant scarlet color, sharp pleats, and belted waist are both stylish and timeless.

Size Range: 2-16
Material: 94% cupro 6% elastane

Xscape Ruffle Off the Shoulder Crepe Column Gown in Pine

Crepe fits and flatters every body, and the ruffled off-the-shoulder style is just flirtatious enough. A convenient back slit keeps the floor-length polyester and spandex gown comfortable to walk in (and dance in, for those fantastic wedding bands.)

Size Range: 4-16 regular and petite
Material: 94% polyester, 6% spandex

Indigo Satin Pleated Gown

As metallics dominate the winter wedding scene, a sparkling blue can be a breath of fresh air. Its commanding cobalt shade is reason enough to adore this ML Monique Lhuillier gown, crafted of hammered satin charmeuse. Its notched bodice and halter straps only add to its allure.

Size Range: 0-16
Material: 100% polyester

Avedon Crystal-Embellished Velvet Maxi Dress

One can never go wrong with a slinky black dress, and this London-inspired fashion is tailored from ultra-plush stretch-velvet. Designed to be styled without jewelry, its "globe" detailing at the bust adds just enough sparkle.

Size Range: 2-10
Material: 90% polyester, 10% elastane

Norma Kamali Women's Diana Gown

This Norma Kamali gown comes in over 27 different colors; its shape is simply that arresting. The flattering one-shoulder asymmetrical ruching and shirred sides hug one's figure. You're sure to get more than one "Greek goddess" compliment throughout the evening.

Size Range: XXS-XL
Material: 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex; Inserts: 82% Nylon, 18% Spandex

Cape-effect Belted Crystal and Faux Pearl-embellished Crepe Mini Dress

The little black dress is always a beautiful selection, and this mini cape-effect crepe dress is packed with secret details that make it an even more covetable choice. A faux pearl and crystal-laden brooch at the center of the belt appears in almost every item of Andrew Gn's latest collection, while its slimming bodice is emphasized by subtle vertical seams and concealed hook-and-eye fastening at the back.

Size Range: 2-10
Material: 50% viscose, 50% acetate

Pointelle-knit Pleated Midi Dress

transparent and mesh have dominated the trend cycle this Fall '23, and this pointelle-knit midi dress from Ralph Lauren, complete with smart pleats, indulges the trend with a classic design.

More: Stylish transparent Dresses to Add to Your Closet

Size Range: XXS-XL
Material: 100% viscose

Alex Evenings Sequin A-Line Evening Gown in Icy Orchid

For a more elaborate look, this sequin A-line gown is a showstopper. Its floor-pooling gown and icy sequins create an almost Art Deco aesthetic befitting any grand affair.

Size Range: 4-16
Material: 97% polyester, 3% spandex

Glitter Knit Maxi Dress

Another feature of winter weddings? They tend to be chilly, whether you're outside for the entirety of the bash or simply while waiting for a car. This glitter knit gown is glamorous and subtle enough to fit any formal occasion—with a truly awe-inspiring open back—with enough coverage to keep you comfortable.

Size Range: 4-12
Material: 80% polyester 20% polyester (recycled)

Silk Drape Dress

Cocktail hour? We've got our jewel tones at the ready with this refined jade silk dress. Its long sleeves, attractive draping, and subtle stretch will make you reach for it again and again.

Size Range: 0-12
Material: 92% silk, 8% elastane

Santiana Open-back Lenzing Ecovero Satin Maxi Dress

A simple slip can be styled as elaborately or minimally as one would like, making it a powerhouse item of your wardrobe. This icy blue version of the look features eco-friendly satin, a slim fit, and ties at the back for easy adjustments.

Size Range: XS-XXL
Material: 100% LENZING™ ECOVERO™ viscose

Ciebon Osha Directional Stripe Long Sleeve Asymmetric Knit Dress in Green/Navy at Nordstrom, Size Large

For another knit option, consider a patterned midi for extra visual interest. The cream and black combination mesh with any color scheme, while its ribbed knit and ballet neck are sure to attract compliments.

Size Range: XS-XL
Material: 62% viscose, 22% polyester, 8% lyocell, 8% linen

Pradera Tiered Cotton Poplin Midi Dress

While people land across the spectrum on the etiquette of donning red to a wedding throughout the year, the holidays offer the prime opportunity to rock the bold color. This structural red midi has a certain signature Latin influence that makes it even more romantic.

Size Range: 0-10
Material: 100% cotton poplin

The Black Rain Falconetti Midi Dress

New year, new dress? While the firework motif and luxe black mesh instantly channel visions of champagne toasts and midnight kisses, the detailing is subtle enough to wear to any wedding throughout the season.

Size Range: 2-10
Material: 100% nylon; silk shoulder pads

Frankie Silk Dress

The purples and blue florals in this gown root it firmly in winter acceptability, but the variance in its shades mean you could wear it year round too.

Size Range: 0-12
Material: 100% bluesign® approved silk

Jia Bias-Cut Ruffled V-Neck Gown

Soft ruffles cascade down the shape of this BHLDN selection, making it a delightful choice for dancing the night away.

Size Range: 0-16
Material: viscose; polyester lining

Women's Strapless Jacquard Gown

For a more formal pick, this navy gown's full skirt and strapless bodice are sure to do justice to any black tie dress code. Its jacquard knit, fit-and-flare silhouette, and floral detailing add further visual interest.

Size Range: 0-16
Material: 71% polyester/29% metallic polyester

Mock-Neck Asymmetrical Draped Midi Dress

If you prefer a more organic shape, opt for this artful viscose dress in a rich cocoa plum.

Size Range: 00-16
Material: viscose

Drop Sleeve Floral Silk Fit & Flare Shirtdress

For a more elaborate look, this masterfully printed mock-neck cocktail dress is practically a work of art. While its all-over motif makes it an instant add-to-cart, its 100-percent silk construction, barrel cuffs, and other choice details make it a favorite.

Size Range: XXS-XL
Material: 100% silk

Casey Scalloped Lace Fit-&-Flare Mini Dress

You can't go wrong with a lace selection, especially rendered in a classic winter blue. Bronx and Banco excels in embellished dresses, and this fit-and-flare style draws the eye.

Size Range: XS-XL
Material: viscose/cotton; polyester lining

Michael Costello x Revolve Carmen Dress in Burgundy

Burgundy always befits the holidays, and stretch velvet? Say no more. A boned bodice, singular draped shoulder, and draped fabric overlay summon visions of old movie stars and Hollywood glamour.

Size Range: XXS-XL
Material: poly, 3% spandex; lining one: 7% cotton, 3% spandex; lining two: 95% poly, 5% spandex

Adrianna Papell Floral Jacquard Fit & Flare Cocktail Dress in Red Multi at Nordstrom, Size 14

For a more subdued look, this blue-and-red floral frock—complete with pockets—has you covered. Its bateau neck, v-cut back, and gentle flair infuse the polyester selection with modest interest.

Size Range: 4-14
Material: 100% polyester

Maggy London Floral Metallic Jacquard Long Sleeve Midi Dress in Fuchsia at Nordstrom, Size 18W

Cast off heavy fabrics with this swishy option from Maggy London. Its metallic sheen, subtle floral detailing, and deep pink coloring embody the elegance of winter wear, but its lightweight polyester is practically lounge-worthy all night long.

Size Range: 0-18
Material: 100% polyester

Stretch Crepe Bow Maxi Dress

We'd expect nothing less from London-based label Self-Portrait, known for its easy evening pieces: a stretch-crepe column gown in a regal green. Its shirred bodice and dimante bow details along the front are joyfully seasonal.

Size Range: 0-10
Material: 100% polyester

Charlie Strapless Floral Ruffle Gown

This strapless dark floral gown has an almost vintage aesthetic, with a flirty high-low silhouette. A tiered ruffled hem and painted flowers only add to its glamour.

Size Range: XS-XL
Material: 100% polyester

Zoa Dress

It wouldn't be a holiday celebration without a metallic gown in your repertoire, and this gunmetal version is a sleek standout. Its twist detail and floor-length skirt with slit are also worth noting.

Size Range: XXS-XXL
Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Women's Tara Ruched Sheath Dress

Norma Kamali does it again with another complimentary draping gown befitting a winter wedding celebration. This illusion mesh sheath dress has a chic V-neckline and strapless cut.

Size Range: XS-XL
Material: 82% nylon, 18% spandex

Sam Edelman Halter Neck Feather Trim Cocktail Dress

For a refined look with a little pizzazz, try this sheath mini dress from San Edelman—complete with a frilly feathered trim. This frock is available in red, black, and blue.

Size Range: 0-14
Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Alice + Olivia Paulette Long Sleeve Velvet Minidress in Black

Best of both worlds? Velvet and mesh make an appearance in this Alice + Olivia mini, complete with puff sleeves to accentuate the silhouette.

Size Range: 0-12
Material: 80% cotton, 18% lyocell, 2% elastane with 100% silk contrast

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