With festivities officially back on, you’ve probably got a fair few ceremonies ahead of you this season, which is why there’s never been a more fun time to shop for winter wedding guest outfits (though if you’d rather practice circularity, there are plenty of places which you can hire designer dresses from).
When it comes to autumn trends, the message is clear: go big or go home. We’re seeing joyful dressing galore, in the form of sequin gowns, bright hues and loud prints. Let’s be honest, you can never bring too much joy to a wedding.
At fashion week, I loved the bring pink gowns served up by Valentino and Balmain, the sequin frocks and jumpsuits at Ashish and Stella McCartney and the motifs at Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana.
That said, minimalists shouldn’t despair, there were plenty of paired down options on the catwalk too, including this season’s must-have: the little black dress, as seen at Victoria Beckham and Khaite. Yes, it’s perfectly ok to wear black to a wedding, sartorial rules be damned.
It’s not all about designer-wear though, the high street is awash with gorgeous affordable winter wedding guest outfits, from dresses to jumpsuits and cool suits you’ll want to wear again and again. H&M, Zara, Needle & Thread et al all come up trumps this season.
Sometimes, the type of wedding you’re going to might limit the kind of silhouette you can opt for. When it comes to traditional church weddings, go for a long-sleeved style with a bateau or other high neckline to avoid showing too much flesh. This look works well for a black tie affair, though that’s a great occasion to go for a truly dramatic piece.
Your clothes are just part of your outfit however and the right accessories can seriously elevate your look. For AW21 weddings, try Dynasty-esque statement earrings, layered gold necklaces and a pair of slip-on sandals or glittery heels. Oh, and don’t forget to add a mini designer handbag – baguette bags are still all the rage.
Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best winter wedding guest outfits.
HARRIS TAPPER Satin Martin Dress, £219 at Harrods
Throw an oversized blazer over this satin beauty and you're good to go.
Silk long-sleeved midi dress, €390 at MOYE
Don't let anyone tell you black isn't appropriate for a wedding. Crafted from lustrous silk satin, this elegant gown features long sleeves, a round neckline and a subtle slit. It'll you see you through many weddings and party seasons to come.
RIXO Kelly sequined crepe de chine midi skirt, £265 at Net-A-Porter
Made from crepe de chine, this skirt is decorated with colourful sequins that form geometric diamonds and gently flares at the hem. Wear it with a simple silk camisole and heels.
The Coquette Dress, £445 at valle&vik
Wear this ethereal shirt dress buttoned up on its own, or as a cover-up over a chic silk jumpsuit.
AMY LYNN Round-neck ruffled crepe midi dress, £90 at Selfridges
I love a pop of colour at a wedding, and this lemon-hued ruffle midi dress is as joyful as dresses come.
SLEEPING WITH JACQUES + NET SUSTAIN The Freudian silk-satin maxi dress, £281 at Net-A-Porter
Sleeping with Jacques' 'The Freudian' maxi dress is made from responsibly sourced silk-satin in a delicate copper hue. Designed with the '90s in mind, it has a V-neckline and plunging open back with slim crossover straps.
AURELIA LONG SLEEVE MINI DRESS, £375 at Needle & Thread
Needle & Thread is known for its intricate dresses, embroidered and embellished with delicate floral patterns and sequins. In other words, the perfect choice for attending a wedding. The Duchess of Cambridge owns the long version of this frock.
Long satin jumpsuit, £49.99 at Zara
Not a dress person? No matter. Jumpsuits can be just as chic.
HIGH NECK SEQUIN TOP, £119 at WHISTLES
For something a little different, team this sequin top with high-waist black or cream satin trousers. Plus, it's a great option for your office Christmas party.
Wynn dress, £169 at GHOST
The embroidered crepe collar on this dress makes it truly stand out.
Flounce-trimmed dress, £39.99 at H&M
Once the wedding is over, wear this beauty in the daytime with a chunky cardigan and boots.
