What To Wear To A Winter Wedding
As the temperature drops in Toronto and winter creeps around the corner, many men find themselves struggling to balance style and warmth when it comes to men’s suits.
The good news is that with the right choices, you can look sharp and stay comfortable even in the coldest months.
As menswear experts, we’ll guide you through the best suits to wear during winter, covering everything from fabric selection to styling tips.
Fabrics For Winter Wedding Guest Outfits
The key to a great winter suit lies in its fabric.
The right material will provide insulation without adding bulk, allowing you to maintain a sleek silhouette while staying warm.
Wool - The Winter Warrior
Wool is the undisputed champion of winter suit fabrics. Its natural properties make it ideal for cold weather:
Insulation: Wool fibers trap air, creating a layer of warmth around your body.
Moisture-wicking: Wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Durability: High-quality wool suits can last for years with proper care.
Versatility: Wool comes in various weights and weaves, suitable for different winter conditions.
When shopping for a wool suit for a winter wedding guest outfit, look for these options:
Merino Wool: Known for its softness and excellent insulation.
Tweed: A rugged, textured wool fabric that's perfect for casual winter suits.
Flannel: A soft, brushed wool that provides extra warmth.
Cashmere - The Pinnacle Of Luxury
For those seeking the epitome of luxury in winter, cashmere suits are an excellent choice.
Cashmere offers:
Exceptional Softness: Cashmere is incredibly soft to the touch.
Superior Warmth: It provides more warmth than wool while being lighter in weight.
Breathability: Cashmere allows air circulation, preventing overheating.
However, cashmere suits come with a higher price tag and require more delicate care than wool.
Blends - The Best of Both Worlds
Many men’s suits feature fabric blends that combine the benefits of different materials:
Wool-Cashmere Blend: Offers the durability of wool with the softness of cashmere.
Wool-Silk Blend: Adds a subtle sheen and improved drape to the suit.
Wool-Synthetic Blend: This can improve wrinkle resistance and durability.
Choosing the Right Winter Suit Colors
Winter suits typically work best with darker, richer colors that complement the season:
Charcoal Gray: A versatile color that pairs well with most shirt and tie combinations.
Navy Blue: A classic choice that looks great in both formal and casual settings.
Deep Brown: Adds warmth to your winter wardrobe and pairs well with earth tones.
Forest Green: A bold choice that stands out while still feeling seasonally appropriate.
Burgundy: A rich, sophisticated color perfect for holiday events.
Choose darker, richer colors like charcoal gray, navy, or burgundy for winter suits.
Winter
Suit Styles
The style of your winter suit can significantly impact its warmth and functionality:
Double-Breasted Suits
Double-breasted suits offer an extra layer of fabric across the chest, providing additional warmth. They're also making a strong comeback in men's fashion, offering a classic, sophisticated look.
Three-Piece Suits
Adding a waistcoat to your suit not only looks dapper but also provides an extra layer of insulation. It's perfect for those extremely cold days when you need all the warmth you can get.
Textured Suits
Suits with texture, such as herringbone or houndstooth patterns, are not only visually interesting but also trap more air, providing better insulation.
Avoid bulky sweaters under your suit; stick to breathable, tailored layers.
Layering with Winter Suits
Layering is key to staying warm without compromising style:
Thermal Underwear: Start with a thin layer of thermal underwear for extra insulation.
Dress Shirt: Choose a high-quality cotton or cotton-blend shirt.
Waistcoat or Sweater Vest: Add an extra layer of warmth to your torso.
Suit Jacket: Your outer layer should be your well-fitted suit jacket.
Opting for layers that can be easily removed is advisable, especially if you plan to dance or if the indoor venue is heated.
While a lightweight wool blazer can be a great choice, it's generally not recommended to wear a bulky sweater underneath for weddings, as this can lead to discomfort and restrict movement.
Instead, consider a breathable, lightweight wool or a tailored vest that maintains warmth without adding unnecessary bulk.
Styling Your Winter Wedding Attire
Accessories
The right accessories can enhance both the style and functionality of your winter suit:
Men’s Overcoats
An overcoat is essential for winter suit wear. Look for:
Wool or Cashmere Blend: For optimal warmth.
Length: Choose a coat that covers your suit jacket completely.
Color: Navy, charcoal, or camel are versatile choices.
Scarves
A scarf adds both style and warmth. Opt for:
Wool or Cashmere: For warmth and luxury.
Patterns: Choose patterns that complement your suit and coat.
Gloves
Leather gloves lined with cashmere or wool offer both warmth and style.
Winter Wedding Guest Outfit Ideas
Here are three stylish winter wedding outfits that incorporate the advice provided, ensuring you look sharp and stay comfortable throughout the event:
1. Classic Suit with Layered Accessories
Suit: A charcoal gray wool suit, which provides warmth and versatility.
Shirt: A crisp white dress shirt for a timeless look.
Tie: A silk tie in a rich burgundy or deep green to add a pop of color.
Outer Layer: A tailored overcoat in a complementary color, such as navy or camel, that can be easily removed indoors.
Accessories: A lightweight wool scarf and leather gloves for added warmth when transitioning between venues.
2. Smart Casual with a Vest
Suit: A navy blue wool suit
Shirt: A light blue dress shirt to keep the look fresh and bright.
Vest: A matching waistcoat in the same fabric as the suit, providing an extra layer of warmth without bulk.
Outer Layer: A stylish long wool overcoat that can be removed once indoors.
Accessories: A patterned pocket square and a pair of leather dress shoes to complete the ensemble.
3. Textured Elegance
Suit: A textured herringbone suit in dark brown or forest green, perfect for winter.
Shirt: A cream or off-white dress shirt to soften the look.
Tie: A knitted tie in a coordinating color for added texture and interest.
Outer Layer: A tailored wool blend overcoat that is both stylish and functional.
Accessories: A lightweight cashmere scarf and stylish leather boots to keep your feet warm and add sophistication.
Each of these outfits allows for easy layering and removal of items as you transition from the outdoor ceremony to the indoor reception, ensuring you remain comfortable and stylish throughout the celebration.
What Shoes Should You Wear For A Winter Wedding?
When attending a winter wedding, it's important to choose shoes that combine style and functionality. Opt for formal men's shoes made from high-quality leather, as they provide insulation and durability against cold weather.
Look for styles with rubber soles to ensure better traction on potentially slippery and slushy surfaces common in Toronto's winters.
Ideally, you should bring a pair of shoes to change into, especially if you'll be transitioning between outdoor and indoor venues.
Men can also invest in rubber overshoes; while they may not be the most fashionable option, they effectively protect your shoes during venue transitions and help you maintain a polished appearance upon arrival. Plus, they are easier to pack than an extra set of boots, making them a practical choice for winter weddings.
Protect leather shoes from winter weather with water-repellent spray.
Leather Shoe Care For Winter Wedding Attire
Apply Water-Repellent Spray: Use a high-quality water-repellent spray specifically designed for leather to create a protective barrier against moisture and prevent stains from snow and slush.
Condition Regularly: Use a leather conditioner or cream to keep the leather supple and enhance its resistance to water and salt damage. Regular conditioning is key to maintaining the integrity of the leather.
Clean After Exposure: After your shoes have been exposed to wet conditions, clean them promptly. Use a soft brush to remove dirt and debris, then wipe down the leather with a damp cloth. Allow the shoes to dry naturally at room temperature, avoiding direct heat sources.
Use Leather Grease or Wax: For added protection, apply leather grease or wax. These products help seal the leather, providing an extra layer of defense against moisture while nourishing the material.
Conclusion
Choosing the right winter wedding attire is about balancing warmth, style, and functionality. By selecting high-quality fabrics like wool or cashmere, opting for darker colors, and paying attention to proper fit and layering, you can create a winter wardrobe that keeps you warm without sacrificing style.
Remember, investing in a few high-quality winter suits is often more beneficial than having many lower-quality options. With proper care, a well-chosen winter suit can last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment in your professional and personal style.
Enhance Your Winter Wardrobe
Enhancing your winter wardrobe has never been easier with the help of our stylist Eddie, at Carpe Diem Men, located in the heart of Greektown, Toronto, at 569 Danforth Ave. Eddie will work with you to curate high-quality designer menswear that not only keeps you warm during Toronto's cold seasons but also ensures you look effortlessly stylish.
