I recently celebrated my 27th birthday, an age defined by an endless flow of wedding invitations. There seems to be a time in most people’s lives when everyone they know decides to get married, and I’m in the thick of it. This might bring thoughts of dancing all night, raiding the open bar, and perhaps meeting a suave groomsmen, but the only thing on my mind after I tear into one of those envelopes is what I’m going to wear. Winter wedding guest dresses can be especially hard to find.
Let’s break it down. Whether the destination is an Irish castle (speaking from personal experience), or the sole venue in your small hometown for the umpteenth time (it’s me, again), the first step is to decide what kind of look you’re aiming for. I broke this down into digestible categories, so choose what fits your personal style and the invitation details. Maybe you need to stay on budget, or you’re worried about shopping based on your body temperature. Whatever the case may be, decide what’s important and go from there. The right option is the one that makes you feel your best. (A wedding should only be stressful for the people planning it.) Read on to shop my favorite winter wedding guest dresses so you can focus on other things, like whether you’ll have the fish or the steak.
Showstoppers
Personally, I’m not showing up to a wedding unless I’m the second best-dressed person in the room. I want fellow attendees to have their jaws on the floor, a feat only accomplished by peekaboo lace, plunging necklines, or shimmering rhinestones.
All Black
A black ensemble provides a solution to almost any fashion problem, but especially weddings. These are easy to layer upon, will match with accessories you already own, and can be worn time and time again. Plus, it’s the easiest for color coordinating with your date.
Mini
The mini dress is a confident, bold, albeit more casual choice for party-forward weddings. Reach for tights and a long coat, or just stay on the dance floor to avoid the cold.
Long Sleeves
I’m perpetually burning up, so this category is not for me, but if you’re prone to getting chilly, you might want to look for a long-sleeved option. These are also good for shoppers who want to show a little less skin.
Under $300
If your closet already looks like Jane’s from 27 Dresses, or you’re trying to celebrate the darling couple without spending your entire paycheck, this part is for you. There’s no shortage of affordable yet chic dresses to browse this season. I’ve curated picks from brands that offer luxe styles for $300 or less.
Re-Wearable
The best dresses to invest in are the ones that you’ll wear on repeat. Look for styles that are timeless, so you aren’t likely to grow tired of them. When you look at those photo booth strips years from now, the goal is to have no regrets. Sticking to these polished, elegant dresses will allow for seamless reintroduction whenever you style them anew.
Payton Pampinto is a contributor at townandcountrymag.com and ELLE.com.