Trying to create fabulous cocktail outfits in winter is something we all struggle with. Winter is a season filled with various celebrations, from Thanksgiving to holiday parties, winter weddings, celebratory dinners, and more. No matter the occasion, your goal for your winter attire is to stay warm while looking as elegant as possible. Already cocktail dresses lean to the shorter side, with the appropriate length somewhere between mid-thigh and mid-calf.
So, they are trickier to wear for a winter party. Plus, winter outfit ideas feature rich textures, bold daring colors, and statement accessories. Fortunately, we have all the outfit ideas and hacks you’ll love to pick the best cocktail outfits for winter. Keep scrolling to see the best winter cocktail attire for women this season.
What to Consider When Creating Your Winter Cocktail Outfits?
What exactly makes a winter cocktail attire for women? To create the appropriate outfit, you need to consider how cold the winters get, and prepare for snow or rain, while ensuring you align your outfit with the wedding’s dress code.
Choose the correct winter cocktail colors
When in doubt, stick to traditional colors like emerald green, navy blue, ruby red, and sapphire blue. However, I also love gorgeous black statement gowns in winter. They are timeless, versatile, and suitable for all seasons. You can also pick metallics like gold, silver, or bronze to add sparkle to your cocktail attire. And if you want something truly elegant, you can enjoy winter whites such as cream, and off-white for that fresh and frosty outlook. Nevertheless, if you do pick dark solid colors, consider adding a pop of color through your scarves, or jewelry to stand out against the winter backdrop.
Layer your winter cocktail outfits carefully
Layering is super important to your entire winter outfit collection. It’s even so much more important when preparing for that cocktail party. Remember, cocktail dresses only come up to the knees. And when you want to wear the appropriate attire, you need to be creative about staying warm and comfortable. For instance, you would near something that goes over your dress, especially when it isn’t warm enough. Usually, this might mean picking between a tailored blazer and a trench coat. Next, comes a shawl or wrap made of cashmere or silk. This works best with a midi-dress or a bodycon dress. And if you prefer looking as glamorous as possible, you can pick a faux fur scarf or stole which works best with a strapless or off-the-shoulder dress. Finally, you’ll need tights or leggings for all cocktail outfits in winter.
Selecting the right fabrics
While layering is important for your cocktail outfits in winter, you need to be careful so you don’t pick fabrics that don’t go well together. For instance, you should aim to wear heavier fabrics over lighter ones, keeping your entire look as streamlined as possible. That said, wool and cashmere always stand out for their high-insulating feel. You can also pick synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon which are resistant to wind and moisture.
Accessorizing for extra warmth
Warmth isn’t just about the layers over each other. You also need accessories that can further elevate your look. Think gloves, scarves, and hats for extra style and warmth. Also, you might love a fedora, beret, or other stylish headpieces. Beyond that knit or leather gloves can also add to your appearance. And don’t forget about using wraps or scarves as well to be wrapped around your neck for more warmth.
Always consider the dress code for the event
The blanket statement cocktail always means more than you realize. The truth is not every cocktail party will work well with the same cocktail outfits, especially in winter. For instance, a cocktail winter wedding dress code would be different from a simple night out among friends. Or a business casual cocktail event would require something different from a red carpet activity. Also, the timing of the event matters. Evening hours typically demand more formality than events scheduled during the day.
What Is The Difference Between Evening Attire And Cocktail Attire?
It’s super important to know the difference between a cocktail attire and an evening attire. Generally, your evening attire is more formal than cocktail events. When you think of evening attires, you think of grand, glamorous, and longer outfits made of heavier fabrics. This is because they are worn to events like black-tie occasions or galas. We consider cocktail attires as less formal clothes. Cocktail dresses are also typically shorter and made of more lightweight fabrics.
6 Fabulous Ideas for Curating The Best Cocktail Outfits in Winter
Velvet Cocktail Outfits for Winter
Velvet dresses are one of the best cocktail outfits in winter. First, velvet is pretty warm (even warmer than satin). They also exude an understated luxury, providing a gorgeous base that you can accessorize on for various winter cocktail occasions. There are a variety of ways to wear velvet for winter.
We recommend choosing velvet dresses in dark green, burgundy, or silver. For layering choose a trench coat or knit sweater in black or nude color. If you can wear your cover during the event, consider a velvet slip dress with a chunky knit sweater over it. To complete your velvet vibe, wear black silk gloves since they are suitable for such kinds of semi-formal or formal cocktail events.
There are many more outfit ideas for your velvet vibe. And when you want to wear something else instead of a velvet cocktail dress, you can pick a velvet blazer with a sequined top and leather pants. Or you can consider a velvet jumpsuit with black or metallic statement earrings.
Black Cocktail Dresses for Winter
Black is elegant, timeless, and versatile. So, you can never go wrong picking a little black dress as your winter cocktail attire. All you need do is pair it up with striking accessories or a splash of color to stand out. For fabric selections, there are endless options like satin, crepe, velvet, and even a sequin black dress. And regarding style, you choose from a satin midi, one-shoulder, to a structured wool mini-dress. Check out this all-black outfit, suitable for a winter cocktail event. However, you may consider pairing with a tailored blazers or trench coat instead of a jeans jacket to achieve the perfect elegant cocktail outfit.
Bodycon Cocktail Dresses for Winter
Bodycon dresses are incredibly classic and feminine. When you pick one with off-the-shoulder sleeves or that’s entirely sleeveless, you could highlight your neck and shoulders in a flattering way. These dresses are also fantastic for showing off bold statement pieces. However, you should consider wearing this over opaque, thick tights that can provide the extra warmth and as much coverage as possible. See our brown bodycon cocktail dress with a wide belt, which is a perfect example of a careful party outfit curation for the cold winter months.
Midi Cocktail Dresses For Winter
One of the best selections for winter is midi cocktail dresses for women. Whether you pick a long- or short-sleeved midi or knee-length dress you’ll especially love the extra movement space and comfort they offer. For example, this A-line midi dress with brown ankle boots, works for a variety of casual events. You can always swap the flats for heels to complete your cocktail outfit for winter. Regardless, you can also go for a satin cocktail dress in bold colors as a part of your cocktail outfits in water.
That said, you don’t have to keep your options to a long or short-sleeved midi dress. A halter or sleeveless option is also a fabulous choice. However, this begs the question – what do you wear over a one-shoulder or sleeveless dress in winter? Since we are all about cocktail outfits, your choices can be between a polished blazer, a faux fur coat, or a longline coat. An embellished cardigan can also work if it aligns with the dress code for that event.
Styling Floral Prints for Winter Cocktail Attire for Women
Wearing floral prints as your cocktail attire for winter can be challenging. For the most part, floral dresses are more suitable for summer or winter-to-spring transitional months. That said, there are many great options suitable for winter. As a general rule, choose florals rendered in metallic flecked fabrics and velvet. Also, you want to pick floral prints in dark shades like blue, red, or green on black. That said, if you want to go for lighter prints, make sure to incorporate other deep-earth hues through your sweaters or cardigans. For instance, you could wear a black sweater over a vintage floral cocktail dress. Or you could pair it with a leather jacket and gaudy accessories.
Shimmering Sequins and Metallics for Winter Parties
Sequins make you sparkle and shine radiantly. These dresses are fantastic for celebratory events. However, always remember to choose understated accessories for your sequin dresses. By keeping the rest of your outfit simple, you’ll be letting the shimmer shine.
Consider picking a sequin mini-dress with skin-colored or black tights and ankle boots. Another gorgeous choice is our Amethyst Glam Ensemble featuring a stunning purple sequin dress, sleek black belt, and knee-high boots. And regarding colors, choose sequin or metallic dresses in aqua, deep purple, burgundy, green, and many more. Even so, you can always choose a gold or silver sequin v-neck ruffle hem dress.
More Outfit Ideas: What Should I Wear Instead of a Cocktail Dress?
Knitted Sweater Dress with Over-the-Knee Boot
Knitted sweater dresses are amazing and versatile. You can wear them to office parties, or casual nights out. And if you’re looking for a great alternative to a cocktail dress you can always style one to stand out. Of course, one thing we love about them is how easy they are to style with winter boots or heels. You’ll especially love this oversized beige sweater dress that pairs with a black corset belt, and chunky boots, suitable for a casual cocktail event.
Dressy Tops and Skirts
Cocktail dresses aren’t the only way to dress for your winter party. You can always choose a gorgeous top and skirt combo instead. For instance, this black sequin top on a pencil skirt is a great choice for any office party in winter. Or you can always choose a sequin top on a flowy midi skirt. Another fantastic way to style your winter cocktail attire for women is a silk blouse or peplum top and metallic skirt.
Jumpsuits/ Pantsuits: What Pants to Wear Instead of a Cocktail Dress?
You can also wear a jumpsuit or pantsuit to a cocktail attire in winter. All you need is pick one made of velvet, heavy crepe or wool blends. For the pantsuit, make sure to pick either a silk blouse or a knit turtleneck sweater in dark solid colors. Another fantastic way to wear a pantsuit for winter is with a bodysuit. Nevertheless, a great accessory over your attire is a chunky knit scarf. Another lovely choice is a high-waisted trouser on a formal sweater or sequin top. And of course a faux fur stole or coat can also provide the extra warmth to these outfit ideas.
The Classic Winter White
Depending on the cocktail party, you can wear a white outfit as well. However, your pairing choice should also be intentional. For instance, you could wear a white cocktail dress with black tights and heels. Another fantastic choice is a pair of white trousers and a halter top paired with a blazer or cardigan.
Or you can pick a white winter puffer coat over your cocktail dress. Check out our rule-breaking fashion outfit curation featuring a white ruched dress, bold-red belt, and pointed-toe high heels. This outfit pairs perfectly with a faux fur stole. You’ll also love an all-white galore, featuring the white ruched-dress, metallic heels, and a white blazer. Regardless, even when you don’t want to achieve a complete white look, you can add pops of colors using accessories like emerald earrings, or a silvery shawl.
Accessorizing: What to Wear With a Cocktail Dress When Cold?
Stylish Coats over Cocktail Dresses
As we said earlier, you need an extra layer over your dress. You can choose a classic option which is a nude-colored trench coat, which can fit over a cocktail dress, maintaining that aligned silhouette. Another lovely choice is an oversized topcoat, which can wrap around you like a huge teddy bear while remaining just as stylish as desired. Or if your gown is made from heavier fabrics like velvet, you can choose a tailored coat or blazers as well. Regardless, if you are attending a more casual affair, you could choose knitwear in red or gray colors.
Moreso, some occasions call for a cape in fabric like wool or velvet, which gives you a vintage-inspired outlook. And when it’s not fully cold you can always stick with a shawl or wrap in wool or cashmere to ensure there’s enough spotlight on your clothes.
Tights and Leggings
Leggings and tights are a great addition to your winter cocktail attire for women. You can even use that as your thermal base layer since they provide insulation without making your outfit heavy. The color you pick for your tights or leggings also depends on the look you’re trying to achieve. For most people, black tights or leggings are the way to go since they always align with every dress. However, if you choose a short velvet dress, you can easily wear nude fleece-lined tights and sheer pantyhose to give the illusion of bare legs while maintaining warmth.
Stylish Gloves
As said earlier, gloves are always a lovely addition to your winter ensemble. They are actually a fashion must-have if you’re attending a semi-formal event or even a winter wedding.
Elegant Wraps
Wraps or shawls made from luxurious materials like velvet, pashmina, or faux fur are also a welcome addition. They keep you warm while maintaining that air of sophistication. You’ll love how they blend with diverse elegant cocktail dresses. That said, you need to color-coordinate carefully to maintain a cohesive winter outlook. For instance, if your outfit is a solid color, choose a wrap of a subtle pattern or embellishment. That way, it adds interest without overwhelming the rest of your outfit.
Ear muffs or a chic hat
Whether you’re attending an outdoor event or not, you can also consider adding a hat or earmuffs to your entire outfit. Depending on how you pick them out, they can provide a touch of elegance alongside the extra warmth. Remember it’s all about balance.
Statement Jewelry
Picking the correct jewelry can be tricky. Already, your winter outfit might be in a bold solid color. When in doubt about what works, stick to classic materials like platinum, silver, or gold. These provide a hint of sparkle to your outfit. For instance, you can pick a single statement necklace or string of pearls, paired against a delicate silver or white gold bangle and matching earrings. Your jewelry may also extend to brooches, or hairpins made with stones or crystals for that decorative touch. Even so, the neckline of your dress would also impact your choices. For instance, flattering one-shoulder cocktail dresses demand minimalist necklaces that don’t overpower the neckline. And you can always complete that look with bold oversized earrings or simple studs depending on how elaborate (or not) the cocktail dress is.
Handbags for Accessorizing Cocktail Outfits in Winter
Picking your handbag to complete your winter cocktail attire for women should be about something both functional and stylish. For instance, you can pick a leather handbag with minimal hardware or a small clutch in a neutral color. Regardless, ensure your selection can hold your essentials without being out of place. As a general rule, you need a small handbag that’s practical without sacrificing style to achieve a cohesive look.
Picking the Proper Shoes to Wear with a Cocktail Dress in Winter
Generally, you might ask – does a cocktail attire require heels, or boots? Or is it possible to wear sneakers with a cocktail dress? As expected, season-appropriate footwear ranges from heel ankle boots to knee-high selections. Also, some cocktail attire (not all!) might pair well with platform boots. Another fantastic season-appropriate footwear that can go with your cocktail dress is an embellished or closed-toe pump. Regardless, for anything you choose make sure it is waterproof while providing decent insulation. That said, you shouldn’t wear sneakers with a cocktail dress. Not only is it out of place, you won’t be as warm as you like in them. And considering flats, it’s trickier wearing them to a cocktail party. You need to pay attention to the dress code, and wishes of the host when making your selection. The reality is that a little extra lift can’t hurt – which is why anything with heels works best with your cocktail outfit.
What is not Acceptable for a Cocktail Attire?
A Cocktail party is definitely not the time to wear floor-sweeping gowns. And we’ve already shared some of the best cocktail gowns for women. However, before you pick the next long cocktail dress for that winter event, you also want to pay attention to a few dos and don’ts.
- Pick conservative dresses: Cocktail parties aren’t typically the place to wear revealing clothes. Always double-check the necklines and hemlines.
- Avoid jeans: Although there are cocktail parties where you can get away with jeans, you should generally avoid them. Instead, pick dressy trousers or skirts.
- Avoid oversized bags: There are tons of handbag options to pick from. But steer away from anything big, or slouchy.
- Avoid too many accessories: Strive for balance with earrings, necklaces, or brooch for your attire. Most women’s long cocktail dresses are better worn with one standout option while keeping the rest understated.
- Pay attention to your undergarments: Aim to pick black or darker colors and ensure your straps, slips or shapewear are the correct size.
Final Thoughts on Creating Cocktail Outfits in Winter
So, you’ve seen a variety of ideas for cocktail outfits in winter that are both stylish and warm. Remember the key to creating the perfect winter cocktail outfit is to balance how comfortable you can remain with your style. And don’t forget to always let the dress code for that event guide your choices. In the end, with a little planning, creativity, and experimentation, you can create a winter cocktail outfit that makes you look and feel best. So have fun, putting together the ideas you’ve uncovered and experimenting with different looks. You can also head over to our outfit feed for more inspiration to find the perfect outfit to make you shine at your next winter event.