:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/kateheadey-bridal-party-9893a50147424fc1b64c743e9480926a.jpeg)
Photo by Kate Headley
There's no denying that summer is a popular season to get married: It’s warm, flowers are in bloom, and guests’ travel schedules tend to be more flexible. However, an enchanting winter wedding comes with its own set of perks, which is why heaps of iconic couples have chosen the intimate time of year to say ‘I do.’ (Think Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio and even Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip). Whether it's a festive Christmas wedding, a snowy locale in January, or a Valentine's Day vow exchange, there are many advantages to having a winter wedding. In addition to deep color palettes, unique floral arrangements, and scenic venues, winter bridal party dresses are an opportunity to celebrate the coziest season.
There is a slew of fresh fabrics and silhouettes (available at a range of price points) that look especially fitting for winter, such as swaths of velvet or even sequin embellishments. Don't be afraid to opt for a long-sleeve gown that provides a bit more coverage and warmth for outdoor ceremonies. With peekaboo slits, lace sleeves, and plunging necklines, long-sleeve dresses need not be boring. And if the temperatures are on the mild side, an icy-blue hue in effortless tulle or organza is the perfect match for a winter wonderland theme. Bonus: The colder temperatures will also give your bridal squad an excuse to pile on the faux fur coats, boleros, and wraps.
Read on for the best winter bridal party dresses for every style and budget.
Best Wrap Dress
Lulus My Whole Heart Plum Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Lulus-My-Whole-Heart-Plum-Long-Sleeve-Wrap-Dress-33051ed520fa4fbfaff542af51c29b16.jpeg)
Courtesy of Lulus
Cue the romance: This deep plum-hued wrap dress with long sleeves will bring the drama for a winter wedding. For the ultimate entrance, slip into some gold ankle strap heels.
Price at time of publish: $79
Size Range: XS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester
Most Formal
Amsale Bridesmaids Harlee Gown
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Amsale_Bridesmaids_GB111P_HARLEE_Dress_Split_High_Neck_Open_Back_Crepe_Front_1024x10242x-368a330102d74145b3e9b8b8d7843574-cc8b39a2f36240e1a0b50fc89cb74858.jpg)
Courtesy of Amsale
An open-back and thigh slit are ideal dress details because they lend a dramatic moment for your bridal party without pulling too much attention away from, well, you. It’s the perfect way to add a hint of allure.
Price at time of publish: $290
Size Range: 00-32 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Crepe
For a Glamorous Wedding
Maya Bridesmaid Long Sleeve Maxi Tulle Dress with Tonal Delicate Sequin in Muted Blush
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Maya-Bridesmaid-long-sleeve-maxi-tulle-dress-8a8b37a229864c7da52e707ec4a07696.jpeg)
Courtesy of ASOS
If your wedding is on New Year’s Eve, go all out and dress your crew in sequins. Dreamy layers of tulle, sparkly sleeves, and a gorgeous blush tone. What more could you ask for?
Price at time of publish: $165
Size Range: 2-12 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Tulle
Best for Warmth
Jenny Yoo Ryland Velvet Maxi Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Jenny-Yoo-Ryland-Velvet-Maxi-Dress-8bcc43678337418ab647bd5e42325c24.jpg)
Anthropologie
Since winter temperatures can be low, why not take advantage and go for long-sleeve bridal party dresses? This velvet iteration is simple but features photogenic design details, including a pleated front and ultra-low back.
Price at time of publish: $295
Size Range: 0-26 | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Velvet
Most Romantic
Birdy Grey Christina Convertible Dress in Tulle Emerald
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BIRDY_GREY_CHRISTINA_CONVERTIBLE_BRIDESMAID_DRESS_EMERALD_08_2048x2048-3791958be88b487985e0c2a5b9fdbc01-9111677bbb254ee199dd0ab6fda9dd18.jpg)
An emerald palette is a beautiful choice for a winter wedding, making this elegant tulle gown a winning choice. Team with a soft updo and ornate earrings.
Price at time of publish: $99
Size Range: XS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Tulle
Best One-Shoulder
Celebrate DB Studio Crepe-Back Satin One-Shoulder Bridal Party Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Image-F20099-11239255-Mercury-e9b59d3b66f140aebbcef0e2e098a7cb-a58b3d303f3a421b8e158d1bfdc6cca5.jpg)
Courtesy of David's Bridal
A one-shoulder gown in a soft gray shade is a classic pick for a winter wedding. If you’re leaning toward timelessness, this should be on your shopping list.
Size Range: 0-30 | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Satin
Best Champagne Hue
Fame and Partners The Libra Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fp2282-dark_tan-2-19d3724d197e42caac7487ab29b077de-366ddd4dd6684f899bf4bbcbfd5255e1.jpg)
Courtesy of Fame and Partners
Nothing says winter wedding quite like a champagne-hued gown with a draped bodice and plunging back. It’s the kind of dress that simultaneously contrasts and complements a wedding gown.
Price at time of publish: $260
Size Range: 0-22 | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Polyester
Best Budget
Lulus Rare Beauty Tulle Backless Maxi Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ris-24a7bf359c8d4927aff83c37cfb7b159.jpg)
Courtesy of Lulus
Planning a snowy bridal shoot? This captivating hunter-green gown is characterized by a sultry open back and leg-baring slits. Just add a faux fur stole for added warmth.
Price at time of publish: $74
Size Range: XXS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Tulle
For a Trendy Wedding
Jenny Yoo Logan Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/18-a53a898b405f47279a38eb9b281562ff.jpg)
Courtesy of Jenny Yoo
A hint of dusty rose velvet is sure to add a striking element to your wedding photos. Keep the rest of the details simple; a dainty pair of baroque pearl earrings and strappy sandals in a beige hue will go perfectly.
Price at time of publish: $290
Size Range: 00-32 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Velvet
Most Sexy
Black Halo Kacie 2 Piece Maxi Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/black3047311810_1650992650991_2-0._QL100_-d34e03633cc84ce9b05755564af4299a.jpg)
Courtesy of Shopbop
Navy is a timeless color for winter bridal party dresses, and this two-piece dress is no exception. Accessorize with simple black heels and chandelier earrings.
Price at time of publish: $375
Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Polyamide and Viscose
Best Jewel Tone
Jenny Yoo Ellis Velvet Open Back Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/54524434_061_c2-aca6ff5ab22b4d718bbbf7c76e0bc2ac.jpg)
As if the stretch velvet wasn’t enough to sell you on this striking dress, the soft flutter sleeves and open-back detail solidify the decision. Add metallic heels with delicate jewelry to complete the look.
Price at time of publish: $295
Size Range: 0-24 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Velvet
Most Festive
Reformation Argentia Knit Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/1311954.2-aac2ef87a3574015b1c368a7c471512d.jpg)
Courtesy of Reformation
We're green with envy over here. Crafted from a shimmering knit fabric and boasting a side slit and figure-hugging silhouette, this emerald number from Reformation is ready for a formal, festive fête.
Price at time of publish: $198
Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Metallic knit
Most Chic
Show Me Your Mumu Tuscany Maxi Slip Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BF0-0308N_BK62_04_1440x.progressive-db6e692f30a740c48206b814c16de8c1-aecc5ae365c04838887bda5d3d78647f.jpg)
If your style is reminiscent of ‘90s minimalism, a simple black slip dress is the direction to go for bridal party dresses. It's chic, timeless, and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the dress code.
Price at time of publish: $198
Size Range: XXS-XXL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester
For a Christmas Wedding
Confête Georgie Red Wrap Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Confete-Georgie-Red-Wrap-Dress-bd45a210026a4ba1a644613e4e51dc29.jpeg)
Courtesy of Confete
Equal parts flattering and festive, this fabulous red wrap dress is perfect for a December wedding. The easy-going silhouette featuring a tasteful V-neckline and optional belt will wow from wedding to reception.
Price at time of publish: $70
Size Range: 1X-3X | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Poplin
For a Modern Wedding
Staud Ivy Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Ivy_Dress_Black_005_edit_web_2048x.progressive-51ad63d4a1c04bf5a6e5a73b21f848d4.jpg)
Courtesy of Staud
If your aesthetic skews modern, consider a black dress in an unexpected silhouette with waist cutouts, like this puff-sleeve piece from STAUD. It’s the perfect canvas to add in bold jewelry and heels, giving each member of your bridal party the opportunity to diversify their look.
Price at time of publish: $395
Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Maxi | Materials: Blend
Best Slip Dress
BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/CaliSatinCharmeuseMidiDress-1222f6a19ae645fd93208f3d3b6ace8d.jpg)
Searching for a winter-approved slip dress for your bridal party? Consider this satin stunner in an icy blue hue. The slinky silhouette featuring a draped cowl neckline will look flattering on a range of body types.
Price at time of publish: $168
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Midi | Materials: Satin Charmeuse
For a Black-Tie Wedding
Sachin & Babi Aubrey Gown
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/AUBREYGOWN_WASHEDINDIGO_FRONT2_1200x-bc8eaec96cf9424984d674472f48a41a.jpg)
Courtesy of Sachin & Babi
Throwing a black-tie wedding in the winter? Meet your bridal party dress(es). The simple elegance of this bow-adorned gown makes it a fitting pick. Pair with shimmering chandelier earrings and a metallic clutch.
Price at time of publish: $625
Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester Charmeuse
Best Floral Print
Reformation Aude Dress Es
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/1311387.1-5dd848ee1ea54706b8ba099f12237571.jpg)
Courtesy of Reformation
A wedding in a snow-covered locale is just about as magical as it gets. Behold, the perfect winter floral dress. In a muted and moody print with long puff sleeves and a high neck, it's a striking choice for your crew.
Price at time of publish: $278
Size Range: 14-24 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Lightweight Georgette
What to Look for When Buying a Winter Bridal Party Dress
With the cooler temperatures of a late-year wedding, wearability is a top concern. Heavier fabrics like velvet and long-sleeves will provide additional coverage to keep you warm. But that doesn't mean you have to steer clear of sleeveless styles or lightweight silk and chiffon gowns—a luxe faux fur coat can be layered on to keep you cozy and balance out any thigh-high slits. During the winter months, rich, eye-catching jewel tones, such as emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire, are popular picks among bridesmaids. Alternatively, if you want to match the snowy scene, an icy blue or aqua green could be the perfect touch. Depending on the wedding date, a Christmas or New Year's ceremony may call for an elegant neckline or other dress embellishments like sequins and lace for a glam touch.
Why Trust Brides
Brides contributor Nicole Kliest has over 11 years of experience writing in fashion. Her work has appeared on sites like Vogue, Fashionista, Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Harper's Bazaar, and Elle, among others.