Winter Wedding Looks: 2024’s Top 7 Trends for Guests and Bridesmaids
With winter wedding season in full swing, there's no shortage of occasions to RSVP — and dress to the nines — for. Finding the right look, however, is the tricky part; options are seemingly endless, and when we're spoiled for choice, it's hard to find a starting point. This is where we come in: whether you're attending as a guest or a member of the bridal party, we've curated the top trends (and Verishop picks!) to add to your special occasion wardrobe this year.
Ahead, our favorite wedding guest and bridesmaid dresses that make the most of 2024 most-wanted fabrics and silhouettes.
Keep It Luxe: Velvet Dresses
Lean into the luxe. Velvet will forever reign as a winter classic — not just for the texture and shine (it photographs beautifully, FYI), but because it's genuinely warm, too. Opt for jewel tones like emerald green, deep burgundy or royal blue for a regal touch. If you're new to velvet or typically reach for jersey or crepe fabrics in your evening dresses, try modernizing your velvet dress with a slick-back pun and a pair of minimalist silver earrings.
Here For the Long Run: Long-Sleeved Dresses
Sleeveless silhouettes are typically what we turn to when we think of evening wear, but come winter (especially!), reach for the long-sleeved number instead. It's practical, of course — we'll take anything to maximize our warmth and comfort — but it's almost unexpected in formal affairs. Whether it's you go for a fitted sheath or flowing A-line gown, long sleeves add just the perfect touch of sophistication.
All That Glitters: Metallic & Sequin Dresses
For those looking to make a statement, you can never go wrong with metallic or sequin dresses. (Not to mention: shimmering details keep the festive spirit going strong — something we all crave in the post-holiday winter months). From subtle sparkles to all-out glitter glamour, this wedding dress trend will forever be on point when you’re in the mood to celebrate love.
Florals In Winter: Moody Blooms
Florals for winter? Genuinely groundbreaking, especially since they’re so unexpected outside spring or summer. Moody florals are a twist on the classic brights or pastel patterns, featuring darker hues like deep purples, blues and blacks that feel perfectly suited for the winter season.
Keep It Classic: Black Dresses
If there’s a time to make a statement and play with colors, it’s now — but, black is forever a classic and will never go out of style. It's versatile, too: easy to style, re-wear and keep in your closet long after the winter wedding(s) in question. Do look for special details, though: we love black dresses with lace, velvet, or metallic embellishments that make it feel uniquely yours.
Get Waisted: Wrap Dresses
Another timeless style? The wrap dress. It’s universally loved decade after decade for good reasons; we adore its figure-flattering silhouette, ease of wear and effortlessness. Do go for wrap dresses in rich, wintery fabrics like velvet or satin to elevate your evening look — all while tapping into yet another of 2024's top trends.
A Cut Above the Rest: High Necklines
We love a plunging halter, bustier or Bardot-inspired, off-the-shoulder neckline as much the next editors — but sometimes, a high neckline is just the breath of fresh air you crave within your evening rotation. It's elegant without a doubt and much warmer, for sure: an element that only adds sophistication to your wedding guest or bridesmaid look.
