How guests can stay stylish at a winter wedding according to NEXT’s experts!
For many, a crisp, winter’s day is the most desired romantic setting for tying the knot and according to retailer NEXT, winter weddings are growing in popularity.
A new study conducted by NEXT has revealed that 80% of us would consider having a winter wedding, and given the unpredictability of the British climate, opting for a winter celebration provides a better chance of knowing what to expect on the day.
Weddings at this time of year are becoming increasingly popular. For guests, though, a winter wedding can present a challenge. More than half (51%) of wedding guests said they would struggle to know what to wear for a winter occasion.
For those in need of inspiration, NEXT has teamed up with wedding expert Zoe Burke to provide some wintery style advice for those attending a celebration in the colder months.
What should you wear to a winter wedding?
Zoe says,
“I really love a jumpsuit for a winter wedding, it offers a bit more coverage, and looks really sleek and stylish. A long-sleeved maxi is also a great choice as it will keep you warm but still look stylish. I especially love a boho style for a winter maxi dress.
“Velvet is a classic option for winter, it pairs well with tights, and the fabric is thicker, keeping you warm. It also feels quite festive so is ideal for wearing to your Christmas party too, to get more cost-per-wear.
“A statement trouser suit would be my other go-to, brightly coloured suits look so cool and are the perfect way to wear more layers but still look formal enough for a wedding celebration.”
What coat should you wear?
NEXT’s study revealed that 1 in 5 Brits would be worried that their choice of coat would ruin their wedding guest outfit, so Zoe has shared her advice as to which coats you can wear that won’t impact your look,
“Generally speaking, neutral colours will always work, you can’t go wrong with a timeless trench coat, but also I think, controversial or not, that leopard print counts as a neutral too, as I can’t think of anything leopard print doesn’t complement.
“If you are looking for a coat that will work with formal wear, I always think a three-quarter length coat looks great with any dress length, and a simple, timeless style such as the trench or mac will get lots of wear.
“It might be the mum in me but I would say that ultimately being warm and dry will make any outfit look better, so even if your only option is a waterproof anorak, it’s better than turning up damp.”
What shoes should you opt for?
Zoe suggests,
“An ankle or knee-high boot is a great option in the chillier months – not only because you can hide a cosy sock in there, but because they provide coverage and still look glam.
“If your outfit doesn’t lend itself to a boot, a chunky block heel is always a good choice as it gives you more stability – ideal for when the ground might be wet or slippery. Lots of venues generally prefer block heels as well as they don’t damage wooden floors or lawns!
“If you’re not about the heels, a chunky loafer is really trending right now – it will be comfy to wear, look chic, and keep your feet warm and dry.”
How to incorporate current trends into your wedding guest outfit
Zoe has suggested some small ways of incorporating trends that won’t date, ensuring you get plenty of wear out of your outfit for years to come.
“There are a few shades that are always timeless for autumn and winter – think rich jewel tones and deep burgundies. Something in those colours will suit the season perfectly and you’ll get years of wear out of them as they never go out of style.
“If you’re looking for simple ways to tie in the colours, think about your accessories, wraps, gloves and headbands are all small and affordable ways to update a classic wedding guest outfit.
“You could also get your nails done in a burgundy or olive shade to instantly update your look. Berry lips are a classic for winter too – and don’t shy away from a hint of glitter, a sparkling eyeshadow can upgrade a winter look to a winning look!”
How to prepare for a super rainy, winter wedding
It can be really frustrating when you have the perfect outfit in mind, but the weather isn’t playing ball, so Zoe has shared which essentials you should remember to ensure the rain doesn’t ruin your day,
“I would recommend taking spare shoes if you can, so if yours get damp or aren’t suitable for a change in the weather, you can easily swap to more practical ones. I’d also suggest bringing layers, a shrug, bolero, blazer or cashmere cardigan is a great option to keep you warm during a chilly church ceremony if you don’t want to be photographed sitting in your coat.
“I’d also recommend investing in some chic accessories, some leather or faux leather gloves and a stylish scarf. Make sure you have an umbrella handy too, you’ll be popular amongst the guests if you have one of those to hand if it starts to rain!
“Most winter weddings take place indoors at warm venues, so I would say focus on making sure you arrive warm and dry and don’t worry too much about how that impacts your look, as once you’re safely in the warm you can shed your practical and perhaps less pretty outerwear, and you’ll feel better knowing you’ve not fallen victim to persistent drizzle or strong winds.”
A guest blog by NEXT for English Wedding
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