How to Dress for a Winter Wedding as a Guest

More classic winter weddings outfits tend to call for a morning suit, the quintessential look for formal events inherited from Britain. If the invitation indicates said dress code (it’s important to stick to the dress code set by the couple), choose a black or grey jacket and pair it with pinstripe grey and even black trousers. To respect the colour palette of the ensemble, we recommend choosing a light-coloured waistcoat, such as pearl grey or beige. Complete the look with an elegant men’s tie or a pocket square and cufflinks, which will give you that personal touch while respecting traditional protocol.

The morning suit is not only about tradition, but also about symbolism. Wearing it reflects respect for the ceremony and the couple, as well as a sense of continuity with the great milestones of European sartorial history. In winter, heavier wools and twill fabrics are often used, ensuring both structure and warmth. Jackets with peak lapels, cutaway fronts, and sculpted shoulders create a silhouette that feels imposing yet timeless. Even when chosen in classic shades, subtle tailoring details can set your outfit apart, from a carefully fitted waistcoat to trousers with a clean line and perfect length.

Accessories refine the overall image. Gloves in leather or suede, particularly in dark grey or black, provide a seasonal note of polish. A discreet watch with a leather strap complements the suit without distracting from it. For ties, muted jewel tones (burgundy, forest green, or midnight blue) work beautifully in winter, adding depth without breaking from formality. A silk pocket square, folded cleanly, is often the final flourish.

Formal shoes for men are a key point here, central to constructing any more formal winter wedding look. Pro tip: opt for black leather Oxfords or dark Derbys. In our store, brands like Church’s and Tod’s offer options that combine extensive artisanal tradition with a style that suits this type of event.

If the wedding has a slightly more relaxed dress code, the so-called Lounge Suit or semi-formal two-piece suit is a perfect option. It allows you to introduce personal touches without abandoning formality altogether. In winter, we recommend choosing flannel or wool suits, which offer an ideal touch of warmth for the colder weather and can always be replaced by something lighter or removed altogether at the party. Colours like dark grey, brown, and navy blue work very well for the season, projecting a sophisticated, wintery image that wouldn’t be as fitting for summer weddings.

To complete your look, pair the suit with a classic white shirt, or a light-coloured one, and a silk tie that adds a modern touch, as well as dark leather formal shoes. Remember, monk strap shoes, such as those by Church's, or loafers, are the ideal option.

What defines the semi-formal suit for weddings is its flexibility. Unlike the morning suit, it does not require strict adherence to protocol, which makes it especially attractive for contemporary weddings where the couple wants elegance without stiffness. A semi-formal wedding suit can adapt to different venues, from a historic church to a modern city hall or a converted loft space. Patterns such as subtle checks or herringbone can also be introduced in winter, adding depth while staying within the margins of formality.

Accessories are where personality enters the equation. A textured tie, a coloured pocket square, or even discreet cufflinks can change the tone of the outfit completely. In colder months, a tailored overcoat or a wool scarf can be added for both warmth and refinement. Even knitwear, such as a fine-gauge merino vest under the jacket, can add a seasonal layer without detracting from the sophistication of the suit.

Fit, as always, remains paramount. A semi-formal suit must be carefully tailored to avoid looking either too corporate or too casual. The jacket should sit neatly on the shoulders, trousers should taper slightly without being overly slim, and sleeves should allow for a subtle reveal of the shirt cuff. When executed with precision, this balance between structure and ease is what makes the semi-formal suit one of the most versatile options for winter weddings.

When the wedding takes place in the evening and extends into a dinner, the black-tie suit is a perfect option. Here, a dark velvet jacket and a bold pocket square can add an extra sophisticated touch. A common question is whether or not to wear a Tuxedo jacket. In this case, always check the invitation or ask the couple directly.

The recommended formal shoes for this style are dark Derby or monk strap shoes in shiny leather. To add your personal touch (something we always encourage at OTTODISANPIETRO), remember to add cufflinks and a bow tie in tones that harmonise with the jacket, ensuring a look that suits the occasion.

For winter weddings outfits, wool is a key fabric. It’s important to know that cold-weather wool suits exist for those who find regular wool too warm. The thicker fabrics typical of winter are much more in tune with the aesthetic of winter weddings, and in their thicker form, are ideal for staying warm.

In winter, dark tones are generally preferred for their added sophistication and alignment with nature's colours. Shades like navy blue, dark grey, graphite, or brown are perfect for a men’s winter wedding look. For countryside weddings, you can opt for autumnal colours for winter, adjusting the fabric to the weather and seasonal tones. In urban settings, a grey suit and tie can be much more appropriate.

If the wedding is held outdoors, or the weather is particularly harsh, don’t forget to bring a wool overcoat (much more formal) in neutral tones to wear over the suit if needed.

Undoubtedly, a good pair (or two) of men's formal shoes will serve you well for many weddings and ceremonies throughout your life. The most suitable footwear for a classic style is Oxford or Derby shoes in dark tones, paired with the suit. Monk strap shoes or loafers are an alternative for less formal weddings, but it’s always a good idea to consult with the organisers or the couple to confirm whether they’re appropriate.

Church's shoes are the best-selling choice for such occasions, worn by historical figures during their most important moments and a worthwhile investment in formal men's footwear that will last decades in your wardrobe.

Formal wedding shoes are more than a finishing touch, they mark the entire rhythm of a men’s wedding outfit. A pair of well-polished Oxfords immediately communicates discipline and ceremony, while Derbys add a subtle note of versatility for guests who prefer slightly more relaxed formality. Monk straps, with their distinctive buckles, remain a favourite among style-forward men who want character. 

For daytime winter weddings, dark brown leathers in polished leather can create warmth and depth, while evening receptions almost always call for the austerity of black. Suede may be tempting for its texture, but it should be reserved for less formal gatherings. Beyond aesthetics, quality matters: handcrafted shoes from brands like Church’s or Tod’s not only ensure comfort during long ceremonies but also stand as timeless investments. 

The time of day heavily influences the expected dress code (unless stated otherwise). Daytime weddings allow for more freedom in colour and fabric choices, while evening weddings call for darker tones and a more formal aesthetic.

It’s always recommended to add an elegant tie to complete the look, regardless of the time. For more formal weddings, where you would wear a black-tie suit for men or a tuxedo, consider a black bow tie or one in a tone that complements your look. Winter wedding guest outfits for men, such as those for groomsmen, are more sophisticated and include standout accessories like pocket squares.