Rhiannon Hendricks
Maxi dresses are a popular choice for wedding guests, with many styles, colours, and fabrics to choose from. While there are fewer fashion rules for wedding guests than in the past, it's important to be respectful of the ceremony and the couple getting married. So, is it acceptable to wear a maxi dress to a winter wedding?
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What You'll Learn
Maxi dress colours and prints
Maxi dresses are a popular choice for winter weddings. When choosing a colour, it's important to avoid anything that might be too close to white, as well as colours that match the wedding party. Neutral colours like beige and brown are a good choice, as are classic colours like navy. To add a bit of fun, consider a dress in a unique colour like emerald green or turquoise. If you're feeling bold, you can even shake things up with a pretty, lavender shade.
When it comes to prints, playful options like ditsy florals are perfect for casual weddings. If you're looking for something more formal, consider a dress with a bold print or unique details like cut-outs. Remember, it's important to choose a fabric that's suitable for the weather, such as thicker fabrics like velvet.
If you're worried about standing out too much, it's a good idea to check the wedding invitation or website for any colour scheme hints. You can also consider pairing your maxi dress with a jacket or blazer that matches the hue of your dress to create a stylish, intentional look.
For a winter wedding, you might want to consider a long-sleeved maxi dress to keep warm. You can also add a pashmina or wrap, or opt for a longline duster coat if you're concerned about the cold.
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What to wear over a maxi dress
Maxi dresses are a great choice for a winter wedding, and there are many ways to style them. When choosing what to wear over a maxi dress, it's important to consider the style of the dress, the weather, and the level of formality of the event. Here are some ideas for what to wear over a maxi dress to a winter wedding:
- Jackets: A jacket can be a great way to keep warm and add structure to your outfit. Cropped jackets or boleros are perfect for accentuating the waist and complementing the length of the dress. A denim jacket can be a good option for a more casual wedding, while a leather jacket can add an edgy contrast to a feminine dress. For a more formal look, a tailored blazer in a matching hue can create a polished and intentional silhouette.
- Cardigans: Cardigans offer a versatile option for layering over a maxi dress. A cashmere cardigan, for example, provides warmth without adding bulk, making it ideal for layering over a sleeved maxi dress. For a fun and flirty look, consider a cardigan with feathers, fringe, sequins, or sparkles.
- Trench Coats: A trench coat can be a stylish choice for a winter wedding, adding elegance to your outfit. It pairs well with a maxi dress and can be draped over your shoulders for a distinctive touch.
- Sweaters: Light sweaters can be tossed over the shoulders or tied around the waist for a casual and chic look. For a more fitted option, consider a crop sweater, which can add a stylish layer to your maxi dress.
- Shawls: If your maxi dress has thin straps or is sleeveless, a light shawl can provide coverage and warmth without adding too much fabric under the arms.
Remember, when layering over a maxi dress, it's important to consider the amount of fabric and your overall silhouette. Adding a belt over your layering piece can help define your waist and create a flattering look.
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Accessories for a maxi dress
Maxi dresses are a great option for winter weddings, and you can make them winter-ready with the right accessories. If you're wearing a maxi dress to a winter wedding, here are some ideas for how to accessorise your outfit:
Jackets and Blazers
A jacket or blazer can keep you warm and elevate your look. A black faux fur jacket is a versatile option that can be paired with any dress code, from casual to black tie. If you want to make your jacket look more intentional, try "colour sandwiching" it by matching the colour of your shoes or bag to your jacket. For example, if you're wearing a black jacket, pair it with black shoes or a black purse. Alternatively, if you're wearing a camel-coloured jacket, you could pair it with a nude heel or a gold-toned purse. A structured blazer in a beige or neutral tone can also look great with a maxi dress, especially if you want to let your dress do the talking.
Jewellery
When it comes to jewellery, you can have fun and pick pieces that elevate your outfit. If your dress is a simple style, you could go for statement jewellery, such as sparkly rhinestone earrings, shimmery gold necklaces, or dramatic earrings with a high neck dress. If your dress is more dramatic, you can balance it out with dainty jewellery for an elegant, refined appearance.
Bags
A chic bag can complete your wedding guest look and make a big impact on your outfit. Go for a glam clutch or mini handbag, such as a refined vegan leather style or a piece with luxe embellishments like beading, sequins, or pearls. A velvet bag is also a great option for winter weddings, adding a touch of elegance and texture to your ensemble.
Shoes
Depending on the formality of the wedding and your dress, you could pair your maxi dress with heels or pointed-toe pumps. For a dramatic entrance, consider statement heels, such as cherry-red or metallic shoes. If the wedding is more casual, you could opt for a pair of seasonal loafers or flats.
Stole or Scarf
If you're wearing a sleeveless or short-sleeved maxi dress, staying warm is a priority. A faux fur stole or scarf can keep you cosy while adding a touch of glamour to your outfit. You could also opt for a velvet stole, especially if you're wearing a satin slip dress, as these fabrics pair well together.
Remember, when it comes to winter weddings, layering is key, so feel free to mix and match these accessories to create a stylish and functional look!
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Appropriate footwear
Maxi dresses are a great option for winter weddings. They are a timeless design, and with the right footwear, you can create a stylish and elegant look.
When choosing footwear for a maxi dress, the first consideration is the venue. If the wedding is in a church or another modest setting, it's important to remember that weddings are sacred occasions, so choose something respectful yet stylish. Stiletto heels are a great option for keeping your dress off the ground and adding a touch of glamour. For a more modest approach, pointed-toe pumps can be a good choice, especially when paired with tights that match your skin tone.
The time of day and venue will also influence your footwear choice. If the wedding is during the day, a more casual shoe might be appropriate, such as a flat or a low heel. If it's an evening affair, you can go for something more dramatic, like a pair of statement heels. To add a touch of sparkle to your outfit, consider silver or metallic heels. For a bold statement, try a cherry-red heel, or for a more subtle approach, nude heels are always a safe bet.
The fabric and silhouette of your maxi dress should also be considered when choosing footwear. If your dress has a dramatic silhouette, such as a full skirt, a sharp blazer, and a matching pair of shoes will create a stylish, coordinated look. If your dress is a wrap style, which is perfect for twirling on the dance floor, a comfortable heel or flat shoe will ensure you can dance the night away. For a floaty, chiffon dress, a sleek pair of stilettos can add a touch of elegance.
Lastly, don't forget to consider the temperature. Winter weddings can be chilly, so choose footwear that will keep your feet warm, such as closed-toe shoes or boots. A longline duster coat can also help keep you warm, and it's a simple way to elevate your look.
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Makeup and hair
Maxi dresses are a great choice for winter weddings. They are a timeless design, and there are many ways to style them. When choosing a maxi dress for a winter wedding, consider the fabric and silhouette. Look for floaty fabrics like chiffon, which always look elegant. A wrap dress is a classic style, perfect for twirling on the dance floor. To keep things casual, choose a dress with playful prints, like ditsy florals, or unique details like cut-outs.
Now, onto the fun part: makeup and hair!
For makeup, it's essential to consider the time of day, venue, and theme of the wedding. If it's an evening wedding with a glamorous venue, you can go for a more dramatic look. Think smokey eyes, false eyelashes, and a bold lip. If the wedding is during the day or is more low-key, opt for a natural, radiant look. A light base, dewy blush, and a soft lip will enhance your features without looking overdone.
As for hair, there are many options to choose from. If you're wearing a dress with an interesting back detail or statement earrings, consider pulling your hair up to showcase these features. A sleek bun or a braided updo can be elegant and sophisticated, especially if paired with some sparkly hair accessories. If you prefer wearing your hair down, soft waves or loose curls are always a good choice. You can also add some texture with loose braids or beachy waves for a more relaxed, boho vibe.
To complete the look, don't forget to pay attention to your nails. A fresh manicure will elevate your ensemble. Choose a colour that complements your outfit and accessories. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add some nail art or glitter for a festive touch.
Lastly, remember to consider the temperature and venue when finalising your hair and makeup. If the wedding is outdoors in a chilly location, you might want to avoid an elaborate updo that could get messy in the wind. Similarly, if the venue is particularly warm, ensure your makeup is sweat-proof and long-lasting.
With these tips in mind, you'll be sure to look and feel fabulous at the winter wedding!
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can wear a maxi dress to a winter wedding. It is a timeless design, and there are many styles and ways to wear it. To keep things on the casual side, choose dresses that feature playful prints, like ditsy florals, and unique details, like a cut-out. If you want to dress up a maxi dress for a formal ceremony, choose a classic colour, like navy, and add bold gold jewellery.
To keep warm at a winter wedding, you could wear a longline duster coat over your maxi dress. A black faux fur jacket is another option that can be paired with any dress code, from casual to black tie. If you want to add structure to your outfit, a blazer in a matching hue is a good choice.
It is generally recommended to avoid wearing white to a wedding, as this is the colour typically worn by the bride. It is also recommended to avoid colours that match the wedding colour scheme, unless otherwise stated, so you don't look like you're part of the bridal party.
