Franklin Dean
December is a popular month for weddings, and it's essential to dress appropriately for the occasion. The dress code of the event should be the main factor in determining your attire, but it's also important to consider the weather and your personal style. As a guest, you'll want to look chic and stay comfortable, so be mindful of the temperature and opt for longer hemlines, thicker fabrics, and layers if needed. If you're the bride, you may want to go for a classic ball gown or a glamorous, sparkling gown reminiscent of falling snow. For guests, a velvet evening gown or a sparkly mini dress can work for a formal event, while a satin midi dress or a unique jumpsuit might be more suitable for a semi-formal or casual wedding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dress code | Formal, semi-formal, black-tie, cocktail, or casual |
| Weather | Cold |
| Personal style | Should align with personal style |
| Fabric | Luxe, rich colours, sparkle, velvet, satin, silk, cashmere, crepe, lace, tulle, organza, chiffon, floral, jacquard, knit |
| Length | Floor-length, midi, or mini |
| Sleeves | Long, billowing, puff, flutter, or sleeveless |
| Accessories | Faux fur stole, festive tie or pocket square, chunky necklaces, chandelier earrings, statement cuffs, embellished clutch, cape, outerwear |
| Footwear | Heels, ankle boots, heeled boots, knee-high boots, pumps |
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What You'll Learn
Dress codes: black-tie, cocktail, casual, and semi-formal
When deciding what to wear to a December wedding, it's important to consider the dress code. Here are some guidelines for black-tie, cocktail, casual, and semi-formal attire:
Black-Tie
Black-tie events, including weddings, usually call for formal attire. For women, this often means a long dress, but there is room for interpretation. Consider the invitation—a formal invitation on thick card stock with ornate calligraphy likely indicates a formal dress code. Scope out the location as well; if you'll be outdoors, you may need to opt for closed-toe shoes or a warmer dress. While you want to respect the host and their vision for the dress code, don't be afraid to express your personal style within the given parameters.
Cocktail
Cocktail attire is typically more formal than semi-formal but less formal than black-tie. For women, this could be a simple frock or a standout gown, depending on the event and your personal style. Accessories can elevate your outfit and make it more formal. Rewearing an outfit you already own is not a faux pas and can show your sense of style.
Casual
A casual dress code means you can wear whatever makes you comfortable. However, depending on the event, you may still need to look presentable and professional. For a casual wedding, you can likely wear jeans and sneakers, but no flip-flops. You can also add some business-style elements to your outfit, such as a blazer, silk blouse, or tailored pants.
Semi-Formal
Semi-formal dress codes can be confusing due to the many outfit possibilities. Jeans, t-shirts, and most cotton or twill pants are generally too casual for semi-formal events. Instead, opt for elevated fabrics like silk, lace, crepe, or velvet. A printed dress can work for a semi-formal event, but choose one with elevated details and fabrics. Jumpsuits can also be a great option for semi-formal weddings, especially with chic details. If in doubt, ask a friend or look for visual examples or mood boards, which hosts sometimes provide.
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Dress styles: maxi, midi, mini, and ball gowns
Maxi dresses are a perfect choice for black-tie and formal ceremonies. They are also suitable for semi-formal weddings, especially in cooler seasons or evening ceremonies. Maxi dresses made from thick crepe fabric are a good option for December weddings as they will keep you warm in cold weather.
Midi dresses are a versatile option for wedding guests. They are polished enough for formal settings but can also work for outdoor weddings and cocktail receptions. Midi dresses can be dressed up or down with accessories, making them a good choice for a range of wedding types.
Mini dresses can work for casual or semi-formal weddings, especially daytime events or destination weddings. A mini dress in a jewel tone like ruby red or emerald green is a good choice for a winter wedding. A black mini dress with a sequin-adorned bodice and a bubble-hem skirt is another stylish option for a winter wedding.
Ball gowns are a good choice for formal and black-tie weddings. Look for luxe fabrics like satin, chiffon, or crepe paired with longer hemlines and elevated details.
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Fabrics: velvet, satin, silk, and cashmere
Velvet dresses are a great choice for December weddings. They are warm and festive, making them perfect for the season. Velvet wedding guest dresses come in a variety of styles, from 90s and Y2K trends to more formal and elegant looks. You can find velvet dresses with rich autumnal hues of burgundy, orange, and brown, or opt for a minimalistic midnight blue velvet dress with thin spaghetti straps and a side slit. For a dramatic look, choose a strapless velvet dress with plush velvet florals and a cascading ruffled skirt, pairing it with a monochromatic burgundy heel.
Silk dresses are another popular choice for wedding guests. They offer a range of styles, from solid colours to patterns and prints. You can find silk dresses with oversized floral prints, puff-sleeve midi styles, or strapless slip dresses with a variety of floral motifs. Silk outfits are comfortable, fashionable, and versatile, and can be dressed up or down depending on the wedding's theme and setting.
Satin dresses, with their smooth and fluid fabric, are also an option for December weddings. They often come in a range of styles, including slip dresses, asymmetrical midis, coordinating sets, and floral sheaths. A satin dress with a lace-up corset bodice and ruffle-edged tiers can be a great choice, especially when paired with a pearl-beaded clutch.
Cashmere outfits can be a good option for a December wedding, providing warmth and a luxurious feel. While there are fewer specific examples of dresses made from cashmere, cashmere is a popular fabric for winter clothing, and a cashmere dress could be an elegant and comfortable option for a December wedding guest.
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Accessories: faux fur, scarves, and statement jewellery
When it comes to accessories, faux fur is an excellent choice for a December wedding, offering a blend of warmth, style, elegance, and ethical and sustainable luxury. For the bride, a faux fur shawl, stole, or cape can be draped over the wedding dress, adding a layer of comfort and a touch of old Hollywood glamour. Opting for a white, ivory, soft blush, or light grey shawl can either complement the wedding gown or create a subtle contrast. These can also be personalised with embroidery or embellishments, making them unique keepsakes. Similarly, the bridesmaids can stay warm and stylish with matching or coordinating faux fur shawls, creating a cohesive look. For the groomsmen and other members of the wedding party, faux fur-lined coats or stoles add elegance to their outfits, ensuring everyone is prepared for the winter elements.
Scarves can also be a great accessory to provide warmth at a December wedding. For women, there are various options, including wraps, pashminas, and scarves made from materials such as fur, urban coco, or silk. Men can also accessorise with scarves, and brands like Calvin Klein offer options for both men and women.
Statement jewellery, particularly necklaces, can be the perfect finishing touch to elevate your look at a December wedding. The Lucrezia, for instance, is a floral-inspired statement necklace featuring a combination of emerald, round, pear, and marquise-shaped Cubic Zirconia stones. The Hallie Cubic Zirconia Necklace is another option, featuring alternating pear and round stones with a larger pendant for added glamour. If you're wearing a strapless gown, the Keirsten Y Statement Necklace is a dramatic choice, featuring Oval Cubic Zirconia stones encrusted with crystal. The Camelia Necklace, with its floral motif, is another statement piece that pairs beautifully with many gown necklines. For a more classic and sophisticated look, the Ashton Cubic Zirconia Statement Necklace adds elegance and sophistication to your outfit.
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Colours: jewel tones, black, red, and metallics
If you're attending a December wedding, jewel tones, black, red, and metallics are all great choices for colours to wear.
Jewel tones are a particularly good choice for winter weddings, and you can't go wrong with a ruby red or emerald green dress. You could also pair a jewel-toned velvet jacket with classic black slacks. If you're looking for a dress, consider a floor-length black gown, which is an elegant and classy choice for a black-tie wedding. A midi dress in a silvery grey or a metallic shade like gold, silver, or bronze is another great option for a December wedding, especially if it's around New Year's Eve. You could also opt for a sparkly mini dress for a cocktail or semi-formal event.
If you want to wear red, it's worth noting that some cultures consider it inappropriate, so it's best to avoid it if you're unsure. However, for most Western and secular weddings, red is generally considered acceptable, especially if the couple is less traditional. If you do choose to wear red, opt for more muted accessories and a subtle beauty look to avoid drawing too much attention to your outfit.
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Frequently asked questions
Maxi dresses, midi dresses, and mini dresses are all great options for a December wedding. If you're looking for something unique, you could try a wide-leg jumpsuit, or a satin slip dress.
Thicker fabrics like velvet, satin, and crepe will help keep you warm. You could also try layering with tights, scarves, or a jacket.
It's best to avoid anything that could be confused with the bride's attire, like white or ivory. You might also want to avoid black, although little black dresses are a timeless option for some.
Statement jewellery, bold red lips, and chunky necklaces can all add a touch of glamour to your outfit. If you're wearing a simple dress, you could also accessorize with a stylish cape or outerwear piece.
