There’s something about a winter wedding that exudes glamour. We’ve rounded up the best wedding guest dresses for winter from Harvey Nichols that will have you looking seasonally stylish and ready for every festive celebration.
I have recently been swayed by the (surprisingly unpopular) opinion that a winter wedding might be even better than a summer one. Rich colours, elegant sweeping gowns and luscious fabrics – everything from the flowers to the food to the wedding scents conjures up a more-is-more feel. You can quite easily imagine a bride wearing a tiara at a winter wedding over a summer wedding. And picture the photos. Your guests swanning into a ballroom with swishy ball gowns, not a floral pattern or relaxed linen fabric in sight. No one dabbing their brow from the heat or fanning their faces during the ceremony. The table places with touches of velvet and scents of tuberose and vanilla. There’s something utterly regal about it, and I am here for it – and that’s before I even get onto the guests’ dresses. See below to find my favourites at Harvey Nichols, which, undoubtedly has one of the best selections.
Lace Princess
Francine Floral Lace Midi Dress, £2,695
It was the silhouette of this dress that caught my eye initially, and on closer inspection its pairing with a pretty lace overlay means it has a fun air of Bridgerton about it. It’s impossibly flattering on the bust, and the pleats at the waist give the feel of grandeur. Plus, the lace is a beautiful nod to a wedding fabric without being too bridal.
Christmas Tree Chic
Sequin Embellished Drape Tulle Gown, £1,320
If your wedding is even remotely close to Christmas, this dress immediately sets a festive tone to kickstart the season. The deep green fabric adorned with glittering sequins makes you appear as though you’re dripping (or rather dazzling) in Christmas Spirit. An excellent choice for those who want to show minimal skin but still stand out on the dancefloor.
Robin Red Breast
Crystal Embellished Mesh Midi-Dress, £550
Self Portrait absolutely nails partywear all-year-round, but winter months is where they, quite literally, shine. Rhinestones as opposed to sequins are, in fact, my preference as they give all the sparkle with less of the plastic look. This deep-red wine colour is beautiful, and the fabric has a nice weight so it doesn’t cling to any areas we might be self-conscious about as a bias-cut silk slip dress can. It also comes in a beautiful short-cap sleeve version, which is equally as gorgeous.
Purple Plumage
Balear One-Shoulder Feather-Trimmed Maxi Dress, £,1900
A dress I already own in green – and wouldn’t hesitate in buying a second for even a moment. The classic Taller Marmo one-shouldered dress has gone through a winter makeover and now incorporates a long sleeve. So perfect for dancing. And before you tell me that lilac isn’t a winter colour, let me set the scene. Table centres of winterberries and white lilies, rich purple grapes on the cheese table, hearty burgundy red wine in hand – I think you’ll find it’s a perfect match.
With A Bow On Top
The Priya Bow-Embellished Faille Gown, £650
When your presence is the present for the bride and groom, you better show up to the wedding all wrapped up in a bow. I only wish there were more opportunities in life to wear a dress of this fashion, but a winter wedding is certainly one. Pink is going nowhere (thank you, Barbie).
Heroes Wear Capes
Ophelia Draped Halterneck Maxi Dress, £590
Of all the dresses I have ever worn, this might be my favourite. It can be styled to cover the shoulders in the church, wrapped around the neck at the reception and enjoyed as a swirly, draping cape for the dance floor. I imagine this will the dress you will reach for again and again. Totally fabulous and also comes in yellow.
Violet Voile
Cape-Effect Metallic-Voile Gown, £1,400
It is a truth universally acknowledged that winter formal dressing and capes go hand in hand. This particular frock, in a rich-violet metallic voile, ticks all the boxes. It gives a subtle festive sparkle throughout but is more demure than a sequin. Excellent for those wanting to cover the tops of their arms too! You’ll be the belle of the ball (after the bride of course).
Discover Harvey Nichols’ full events wear edit here.
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