You’ve made the ultra-on-trend decision to have a winter wedding, but with the temperatures dropping, that sweetheart neckline is going to be a little chilly. We’ve got 18 ways to winterize your wedding dress, from faux-fur boleros to bright tights and sleek blazers. Whether you splurge on outerwear or repurpose basic wardrobe staples you already own, you’re sure to be cozy on your wedding day.
1. Red Cardigan: A red cardigan is simple, classic and shows up beautifully in a winter wonderland. Add a spring of holly berries, and you’ve got a gorgeous wedding portrait waiting to happen. (via Love is a Big Deal)
2. Knit Poncho: Knit is a great way to incorporate texture into an otherwise white-out photo shoot. A poncho is best paired with a slimmer dress silhouette, like trumpet or mermaid shapes, rather than ball gowns. (via Elizabeth Ann Designs)
3. A Blanket to Share: Give the shot extra meaning by using a family heirloom, like a patterned quilt or hand-woven blanket. (via W & E Photographie)
4. Red Cape: Capes give your wedding look a timeless edge. A red hooded cape is storybook whimsical, especially if you get gloves to match. (via Wedding Obsession)
5. Faux Fur Coat: A mostly-monochromatic shot works well with a statement faux fur piece like this jacket. Keep it luxe by wearing white or off-white, or add drama with a darker-hued coat. (via Hope Kauffman Photo)
6. Winter Coat: Sometimes your favorite pea coat is the perfect addition to your winter wedding shoot. A bold color like royal blue pops against snow and pine trees. (via Isa Images Photography Studio)
7. Shrug: Shrugs of different, unusual textures like wool can create a more interesting and dramatic look for bridal portraits. Plus, wool is about as cozy as it gets. (via Aaron Delesie Photography)
8. Sequined Cardigan: If your winter wedding is taking place in a warmer climate, your outerwear can be more fancy than functional. A bright sequined cardigan or jacket adds personality. (via Marianne Wilson Photography)
9. Faux Fur Bolero: You can stay warm and skill show off an impressive or intricate neckline with a slim, faux-fur bolero. (via Hope Kauffman Photo)
10. Leather Jacket: A leather jacket is dramatic enough for a wedding, but adds a devil-may-care vibe. Tan leather is perfect for a woodsy wedding, while black leather is ideal to pair with deep wedding colors like red or orange. (via Cassidy Brooke Photography)
11. Flannel: A favorite flannel jacket or shirt creates an on-trend look that is casual enough for a woodsy or winter wedding. (via Ashley Forrette Photography)
12. Knit Scarf: Draw the eye upward with a chunky knit scarf. (via Jacque Lynn Photography)
13. Lace Cape: An intricate cape is ideal for a winter wedding that takes place in a warmer climate. If you’re banking on this look, choose a gown with the simplest neckline — it will keep the focus on the cape. (via The Knot)
14. Blazer: Planning a black-tie affair? Streamline your look with an ultra-white blazer. Blazers over dresses are becoming the newest bridal trend. We can definitely see why: It gives a sophisticated glamour like nothing else can. (via David Jenkins Photography)
15. Pop of Red: Whether it’s in your hair or on your shoes, red is the ultimate color for the winter and looks magical against a backdrop of snow. (via Sara Gray Photography)
16. Your Man’s Coat: Grab the groom’s coat for an adorably candid photo shoot in the cold. (via Emily Steffen Photography)
17. Bold Tights: It’s a thin line to walk, wearing tights on your wedding day. We suggest sticking with tried-and-true colors, like royal blue and red. (via Ciara Richardson Photography)
18. Gray Dress: A coat that acts as a dress is a great idea if you’re having an outdoor winter wedding. You stay warm while looking bridal. Make sure your boots are fabulous, since they’ll get plenty of attention. (via Calla Evans Photography)
Are you planning a winter wedding? How are you going to stay cozy on the big day? Tell us in the comments!