How to Dress for a Winter Wedding

If the wedding falls on New Year's Eve, chances are you're heading to a very formal event. Otherwise, check your invitation for clues to expected attire. Evening is traditionally dressier than day, and restaurant receptions are traditionally less formal than country club or hotel gatherings.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Evening Gowns
• Men's Dress Shirts
• Men's Dress Sweater
• Men's Suits
• Mens' Dress Pants
• Sports Coat
• Women's Dress Coats
• Women's Dress Sweater
• dresses and skirts

1. Select from the tones of the season, including rich browns, cool grays and basic black. Brights such as tangerine, ruby, sky-blue or lime, whether in a shell or print scarf, will give the winter palette a little kick.

2. Go to a casual wedding in a wool skirt, a sweater set, tights and loafers. Or pair a sleeveless wool shift dress with a cashmere cardigan, a scarf and pumps.

3. Step out in a heavy satin strapless dress and a pashmina scarf or in a velvet gown and patent-leather mules if the wedding calls for formal attire. Men might go in heavy corduroy pants and a tweed sport coat for a casual gathering or a dark suit for semiformal, whereas formal functions always call for a tuxedo.

4. Balance heavyweight winter fabrics with chunky beaded chokers, thick cuffs and heavier earrings. Choose leather or flannel-covered shoes over microfiber and remember: the dressier the occasion, the smaller the bag.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're traveling to a climate that's dramatically colder than the one where you live, make sure you have the proper outerwear to brave the winter weather.
• You may have to tromp through a slushy parking lot or salt-covered street to reach the event but don't let the elements ruin your shoes. Give them a quick wipedown before you take your seat.