Winter Wedding Outfits: What to Wear for Men

There are many reasons to choose a winter wedding. Whether it’s the frosty landscapes, cosy candlelit receptions or the warm celebrative buzz filling the air. But with the cold, crisp charm comes the unique challenge of what to wear.

If you’re attending a winter wedding as a groom, groomsman, or guest, understanding the colder climate look takes a little extra thought. Here’s how to do it right.

Formality and Dress Codes

Different formalities will demand different dress codes. Below is our advice on all the possible scenarios you could face.

Black-Tie Winter Wedding – For a black tie, elegance is non-negotiable. A classic black or midnight blue tuxedo will look a dream amongst the backdrop of a crisp winter evening. Pair with an equally crisp white shirt and silk bow tie for picture-perfect sophistication. You can add a touch of winter practicality with a tailored wool overcoat in black or charcoal to keep the chill at bay, and finish with polished leather Oxfords.

Semi-Formal & Cocktail Attire – A semi-formal winter wedding allows for a little experimentation. Consider a tailored wool or velvet suit for both warmth and style. Seasonal hues such as deep burgundy or forest green are a fail-safe way to capture an essence of winter. For layering, add a trench coat or pea coat for some toastiness without losing the sharp lines of your outfit. Finish with a textured tie or pocket square for depth and intrigue.

Casual Winter Wedding – For more relaxed winter affairs, textured blazers are how you’ll achieve the understated yet sophisticated finish to your outfit. However, you still want to be respectful to the occasion at hand. We suggest pairing a tweed of tartan blazer with well-tailored trousers and a soft cashmere sweater for an effortlessly cool winter ensemble.

Fabrics and Materials

Your fabrics and material choices are the core elements to consider when choosing your winter wedding ensemble. They can make or break your outfit. Below we’ve covered what to look out for.

Wool – A perennial favourite for its warmth and versatility, wool’s insulating properties make it ideal for both suits and overcoats. A well-cut wool suit is not only timeless but offers the perfect balance of warmth and breathability.

Velvet – Luxurious and tactile, velvet blazers add a sense of occasion to cocktail orsemi-formal weddings. Opt for rich, jewel-toned colours to embrace the season’s palette.

Cashmere & Merino Wool – Both are incredibly warm yet lightweight ensuring your outfit has fashion and function in abundance. Perfect for sweaters, scarves, or even as lining in tailored suits for unparalleled practicality and refinement.

Flannel – A lesser-known but excellent winter fabric choice, flannel suits bring a subtle texture and undeniably cosy feel. They’re a special choice for daytime or casual weddings.

Style and Comfort

A winter wedding is a good exercise in capturing more than just style – it has to feel good too. With the right outerwear and layering techniques, you’ll learn how to stay warm without sacrificing your style.

Outerwear – Well-tailored outerwear will help elevate your wedding attire and should not be overlooked. A tailored wool overcoat is a timeless choice and offers both warmth and sophistication, but if you’re aiming for something lighter, consider a trench coat which pairs well with your suit choice.

In any case, do not forget about fit. An ill-fitting coat can undo all the hard work you’ve put into your look. Furthermore, be sure to stick to versatile and muted colours such as black, grey or camel for an effortless and complementary finish.

Layering Techniques – Layering is an art-form, especially for winter weddings. Start with a lightweight thermal undershirt for an invisible yet invaluable addition for insulation. Follow up with a high-quality dress shirt and, if the dress code allows, add a vest or cashmere sweater for an extra layer of warmth. Another great option is a three-piece suit which will provide an insulated and polished look. The goal is to stay warm while maintaining a sleek silhouette, so avoid bulky layers.

Accessories

Accessories will act as your secret weapon to tying your outfit together while adding functionality and personality. Below are ways to make accessories work for you this wedding season.

Footwear – It’s important not to let the weather catch you off-guard. Black ice and slippery surfaces are always lurking during winter so opt for leather boots with rubber soles if you’re going to be spending majority of the day outside. They’re practical, stylish and won’t compromise your look. For indoor affairs, polished leather Oxfords of brogues are classics that never fail.

Scarves & Gloves – Not only practical but a chance to lift your outfit out of boredom. A soft cashmere scarf in a neutral tone like grey or cream pairs beautifully with formal wear. Leather gloves, especially in black or brown will keep your hands warm and add elegant refinement to your look. Opt for lined gloves for extra comfort in colder temperatures.

Colour Choices – Winter beckons the call of rich, seasonal tones. Deep, jewel and forest tones bring warmth and sophistication. Think bold burgundy, emerald green and midnight blue for a look that will stand-out and be remembered. Whether it’s a tie, pocket square, socks or even your entire suit, these shades will add personality without overpowering your look.

By now, you should have a vision of your perfect winter wedding look that thoughtfully encompasses seasonal fabrics, accessories and details. If you still need ideas on looking and polished and feeling warm this wedding season, Andrew Brookes Tailoring is here to help you create a bespoke look that perfectly fits both the season and occasion, whilst staying true to your personal style.

For more advice, browse our bespoke tailored suits, or contact us directly on 0131 225 3659 or email mel@andrew-brookes.com