WEDDING BLOG

Winter Wedding Guest Dresses For Every Dress Code

November 3, 2024 | marissa

Image by Helena Brauer Photography. Keep scrolling to find the perfect winter wedding guest dresses

Winter weddings are magical, but dressing for them can be a challenge. Sure, the first things that come to mind might be velvet fabrics, mock necklines, and long sleeves—but those are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether attending a black-tie affair, a cozy mountain lodge celebration, or a chic urban soirée, there are countless unexpected ways to blend style and comfort. In this guide, we’re breaking free from the predictable to bring you fresh outfit ideas for every winter dress code, location, and aesthetic.

To help you kick off the search for your perfect winter wedding guest dress, here are some of our top tips:

Opt for winter-friendly fabrics like velvet, tweed, lace, or jacquard
Embrace rich winter shades such as navy, baby blue, burgundy, emerald, gold, or silver
Combat the chill by layering with thick tights when possible
Closed-toe pumps are always a safe choice, but sleek boots can look great with more casual dresses
Try pairing a coat with a bold print like leopard or plaid with a simple, solid-colored dress
Don’t forget winter accessories like hats, scarves, or gloves for outdoor moments
Steer clear of dresses in winter whites, creams, or beiges—too close to white to take the risk!

Winter Wedding Guest Dresses Based on Dress Code or Aesthetic

Black Tie or Formal Wedding

For a black-tie or formal dress code, a floor-length dress or gown is a must. From there, the options are endless. Velvet remains a timeless choice, as it’s universally flattering and perfect for winter weddings. A simple yet elegant velvet wrap dress is always a standout option. If you’re looking to make a statement, tiered dresses are trending and add a playful touch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with prints—a subtle rose pattern on a flowy, floor-length gown can be both sophisticated and unexpected.

Cocktail or Semi-Formal Wedding

Wearing a mini or midi-length cocktail dress for a winter wedding offers plenty of versatility and opportunities for creative styling. We’ve spotted 80s-inspired dresses making a comeback, featuring details such as ruching, bubble hems, frills, and off-the-shoulder necklines. Bows, whether bold or subtle, are another trend taking the spotlight. Think a big, satin bow on your lower back for a 60s vibe or a playful bow print for something a little out of the ordinary.

Downtown or Urban Wedding

Why let the men have all the tuxedo fun? A tuxedo dress is a bold and ultra-sophisticated option for a city wedding. For those who love modern elegance, corset tops paired with skirts in lengths from mini to maxi offer a chic twist. Not feeling something form-fitting? Looser shift or trapeze-style dresses are effortlessly cool. And for the daring fashionista, sheer panels, bold colors, and asymmetrical necklines capture the edgy, statement-making energy of an urban setting.

Mountain Lodge or Resort Wedding

Winter weddings at a ski or mountain lodge often mean snow. Choose a dress that’s beautiful yet functional—skip the dragging trains or restrictive sheath skirts that make movement tricky. For warmth, stick to fabrics like wool, fleece, cashmere, or a heavier crepe or velvet, and steer clear of lightweight options like cotton or polyester. Dresses with linings or layered textures are perfect for keeping you cozy while still looking effortlessly chic against a stunning snowy backdrop.

Christmas Wedding

A Christmas wedding isn’t a costume party, but leaning into the theme is surely welcome. Is red too obvious? We don’t think so. It’s flattering on multiple skin tones and adds that perfect festive pop to your look. More options are green minidresses with tights, a velvet babydoll dress with puffy sleeves, or a piece with intricate buttons or trimming for vintage charm. For inspiration, consider your Christmas outfits from childhood—then give those nostalgic styles a grown-up twist like figure-hugging silhouettes or shoulder-baring designs. Festive and fashionable.

New Year’s Eve Wedding

Sequins, sparkle, and fringe—oh my! If you’re lucky enough to attend a New Year’s Eve wedding, it’s the perfect excuse to bring out your glitziest attire. Think beyond traditional dresses and embrace metallics and shimmering fabrics that catch the light as you dance the night away. Whether you opt for a form-fitting sequined gown or a playful fringe dress, don’t shy away from bold accessories that add to the festive vibe. This is the time to shine, so let your outfit reflect the excitement of ringing in the new year while celebrating love!

Love these winter wedding guest dresses but need a jacket to help keep you warm? Check out our favorites here!

winter wedding guest dresses pinterest graphic

Image by Helena Brauer Photography

The Ultimate Destination Wedding Venue for Craft Beer Lovers

November 3, 2024 | marissa

If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a thousand times (and frankly, we’ll continue to shout it for those in the back)–your wedding should be about you. Forget unexplained traditions and repeated practices that don’t match your style. Your special day should center around the things you love and the moments that matter most. That’s exactly what came to mind as we explored the new Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya resort: how absolutely perfect it is for couples who love a beach, a brew, and a good time.

This all-inclusive gem is the first of the Margaritaville resorts to go adults-only, and that exclusive ambiance is woven throughout–from the four unique bars to live music events and, best of all, the Landshark Brewery—one of the few all-inclusive resort breweries out there. Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya brings together everything you’d want in a beach getaway and wraps it up with top-notch service, great food, and romantic views.

We’ll just say, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya has all the ingredients for a laid-back yet sophisticated celebration, just right for couples who want the best of both worlds.

Beer-Loving Couples, We’ve Found Your Venue

The Landshark Brewery sets this property apart from typical beach wedding venues. It’s far from just a novelty–it’s a wedding-ready, oceanfront oasis where bespoke ceremonies, receptions, and cocktail hours are not only possible but encouraged. One of our favorite details? You can collaborate with the onsite brewmaster to find your own signature wedding brew. Served up in personalized growlers, it’s a fun and memorable twist on the usual wedding guest favor.

It’s hard to top the view from the Landshark’s Sky Terrace–our favorite spot for toasting and sipping the night away. Your entire crew can enjoy a variety rotating seasonal brews, IPAs, malty ales, and the ever-popular Landshark Lager, all set against the serene ocean backdrop.

A beautiful ceremony on Margaritaville Riviera Maya’s Sky Terrace.

Transform the ceremony space into an intimate reception dinner during cocktail hour.

The Wedding Experience: Exclusivity Meets Fun

Sure, Margaritaville knows how to have a good time, but what makes it an ideal beach wedding venue is its dedication to exclusivity and top-tier service. The team only books one wedding per day to ensure that each couple receives undivided attention and resources. And for those who like a trial run, there’s the “Wedding Dress Rehearsal,” where couples can preview all the details before the main event—a rare treat in the world of destination weddings.

Flexibility is also a major bonus in the Margaritaville wedding experience. Planning your wedding becomes easier than ever thanks to a range of packages tailored to suit your taste and, just as importantly, your budget. Our ideal setup? A ceremony on the Sky Terrace—the largest in the region—with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Afterward, we’d head to the cozy brewery room for a modern cocktail hour while the terrace is transformed into an intimate reception dinner space just for you and your guests.

A Resort of Amenities and Entertainment

Beyond the brewery, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya offers plenty of options to keep your guests entertained. Flex your competitive side on the pickleball courts, unwind with a frozen margarita by the pool, or explore the high-end dining options. There’s even a scheduled roster of events that keeps things fresh for guests staying multiple days.

The resort is also a great spot for bachelor and bachelorette parties. More couples are now opting for extended wedding weekends, where the destination not only hosts the ceremony but also doubles as the venue for pre-wedding festivities, making it a convenient, all-in-one celebration spot. We’ll tease you with this: Taco Boat! And of course, no Margaritaville would be complete without the spirit of music. The entertainment options range from live Mariachi bands and DJs to instrumental ensembles, there’s no reason for any night to end without a party.

Add a floating Taco Boat and get ready for an unforgettable afternoon in the pool.

While Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya is an adults-only resort, the team has options for those who plan to invite kids to their wedding, including Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun that’s just a short drive away. It’s the same great beachy atmosphere, with accommodations for the whole family.

A wedding at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya is the ideal choice for couples who want a wedding experience that’s fun-filled, unique, and memorable for their nearest and dearest. In Margaritaville, love’s just another reason to celebrate life on island time.

Stay Warm With These Winter Engagement Photo Outfits

November 2, 2024 | marissa

Image by Agatha Rowland. Keep scrolling for winter engagement photo outfits

Congrats on your engagement! Choosing outfits for what is likely your first professional photo session as a couple is challenging enough. Add in winter’s low temperatures and unpredictable conditions, and it gets even trickier. We’ve put together a variety of outfit ideas based on the location of your winter engagement shoot. So whether taking classic photos in your local park or going retro in a funky setting, these cold-weather looks will make the perfect winter engagement photo outfits.

Before diving in, we’ve got a few general tips to get you started:

Wear colors and pieces you personally love yourself in; stay true to your style
Pile on the layers to allow for versatility photo to photo
Wear rich textures like wool, corduroy, velvet, and knit for visual interest
Choose shoes that make a statement yet still offer functionality
Don’t focus too much on “matching”; just watch out for loud fabrics that clash
Top off your outfit with hats and other winter accessories

From plaid scarves with winter coats to suede boots and chunky sweaters, we have outfit ideas for just about every style and engagement location. So, what are you waiting for? Happy browsing!

Winter Engagement Photo Outfits

Go Glam Downtown or in a Museum

For photos with cityscapes and downtown vibes, pull out your best coats and boots and don’t be afraid to take fashion risks. Go for stylish, sophisticated pieces with a hint of boldness. Start with an eye-catching dress and pair it with a patterned coat, sheer black tights, and sleek leather boots for the perfect mix of sparkle and warmth. Classic layers like a wool topcoat over a fitted turtleneck or a cozy knit sweater with tailored pants keep the look chic. Add a scarf and leather gloves for that polished finishing touch.

Shop this look: dress, coat, boots, beret, earrings

Shop this look: turtleneck, slacks, overcoat, scarf, shoes

Be Effortlessly Cool in Your Local Park

You can’t go wrong with engagement photos set against the natural beauty of a local park. Choose colors that keep you harmonious with the natural surroundings, like blues, greens, and neutral tones. On top, go more timeless and effortlessly cool with denim jackets or chunky cable knit sweaters. On the bottom, wear pieces that allow you to move freely and look great in dynamic photos, like flowy skirts or dresses over slouchy boots. These combinations work especially well for couples who want to look put together without going too formal—plus, it’s cozy enough for the chilly, colder weather.

Shop this look: dress, sweater, belt, boots

Channel Date Night at Your Favorite Bar or Restaurant

If you opt for engagement photos in your favorite bar or restaurant, go for a mix of dressy and casual attire. Since you won’t be battling the winter chill indoors, you have more flexibility with your pieces. Put together an elevated date night look using a statement top paired with your best jeans and heels. This is where layering becomes an advantage, allowing you to create multiple outfit variations for photo variety. This setting also gives you room to play with color, so don’t be afraid to mix it up for a fresh, vibrant look.

Shop this look: top, jeans, jacket, necklace, heels

Tackle Functional Fashion in a National Park

Are the two of you the outdoorsy-adventurous type? A tour through a national park with a photographer by your side could be the ideal engagement photo experience! When choosing your apparel, think functional fashion. Choose pieces that keep you comfortable on the hike while adding personality—like textured jackets, layered shirts, and cute winter accessories. Nothing says winter quite like plaid, and it’s a classic pattern that looks great on everyone. Neutral colors like browns, tans, and forest greens work well with the natural backdrops.

Shop this look: flannel shirt, pants, jacket, white tee, boots

Bring the Fun in a Funky Motel or Diner

We love when couples take their engagement shoots to a new, unexpected place. For a retro-themed engagement shoot in a motel or diner, take a trip back to the ‘70s with bold, vintage-inspired pieces. Think velvet, corduroy, western boots, and lots of warm hues like red, yellow, and orange. Layer a cropped, faux fur jacket or an oversized bomber over vintage denim for that old-school charm. Complete the look with funky accessories like aviators, scarves, and bandanas.

Shop this look: jumpsuit, coat, sunglasses, scarf, boots

Shop this look: shirt, pants, jacket, sunglasses, boots

Stay Cozy At Home

Lastly, have you spent time nurturing a house that perfectly embodies both of your personalities? Show it off in photos you can cherish for years to come. At-home engagement photo shoots are as comfy and cozy as they get. Throw on a matching sweat set and whip up some pancakes for the cutest photos, or wear your favorite thrifted jeans and sweater to make your photos feel natural and unforced.

Now that you’ve got your engagement outfit picked out, be sure to check out these 8 tips for nailing the engagement photos that will have you feeling photo-ready in no time!

Image by Through the Glass Paris

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