Quick Answer: What Should a Man Wear to a Winter Wedding?
- A wool or wool-blend suit in a deep colour like charcoal, navy, black, green or burgundy
- A three-piece suit or a fine-knit layer for extra warmth
- A silk or textured tie in a rich, seasonal colour
- A wool-blend overcoat and scarf for arrivals and photos outside
- Polished black or cognac oxfords (wear boots to the venue if there's snow)
Winter weddings have a special atmosphere: candlelight, deep colours and a cozy reception after a cold arrival. As a guest, groomsman or groom, you'll be in plenty of photos, so the goal is looking sharp while staying warm. Here's how.
Choose a Warm, Seasonal Suit
Winter is the time for heavier fabrics and richer colours.
- Fabric: wool and wool blends are warm, breathable and resistant to wrinkles. Textured checks and plaids look right at home in winter.
- Colour: charcoal and grey, navy and black are classic. Green and burgundy feel festive and seasonal.
- Pattern: subtle checks and herringbone look right at home in the colder months.
Brands like Calvin Klein, DKNY and Michael Kors offer wool and wool-blend suits that look polished and feel comfortable. For evening and black tie winter weddings, a tuxedo is the most elegant option.
Go Three-Piece
A vest is the simplest way to add warmth and formality. It keeps you warm during an outdoor ceremony or photos and looks great once the jacket comes off at the reception.
Layer Under Your Jacket
For a casual or cocktail winter wedding, try a quarter-zip sweater under your suit jacket in place of a shirt and tie. It's warm, modern and comfortable. For a dressier event, stick with a crisp dress shirt and tie, and add a thin undershirt for extra insulation.
Invest in a Good Overcoat
Your coat will appear in arrival photos, outdoor portraits and on the walk between venues. A tailored wool-blend coat in charcoal, navy or camel looks far more polished than a parka over a suit. Make sure it's long enough to cover your suit jacket and roomy enough in the shoulders to layer comfortably. See more options in our guide to what winter jackets are in style.
Add Winter Accessories
- Scarf: a check, plaid or herringbone scarf adds warmth and colour.
- Tie and pocket square: deep reds, greens and navy suit the season. A textured tie adds depth.
Mind Your Footwear
Snow, salt and slush are tough on dress shoes. Wear boots to the venue and change into polished dress shoes inside, and wipe off salt as soon as you arrive. Wipe off salt stains promptly and condition the leather after the wedding.
Tips for the Wedding Party
Winter is a great time for richer colour palettes. Coordinate groomsmen in charcoal or navy suits with deep accent ties, or go all-in with tuxedos for an evening celebration. Our groomsmen attire guide covers coordination.
The same winter fabrics work for holiday party outfits, too.
Heading to holiday parties too? See our holiday clothing guide.
FAQ
What colour should a man wear to a winter wedding?
Charcoal, navy, black, deep green and burgundy all work well. Add seasonal colour through your tie and pocket square.
Can I wear a sweater to a winter wedding?
For casual and cocktail dress codes, a quarter-zip sweater under a suit jacket looks sharp. For formal weddings, wear a dress shirt and tie.
What coat should I wear over a suit to a winter wedding?
A tailored wool-blend overcoat long enough to cover your suit jacket is the most polished choice.
Shop Winter Wedding Looks at Tip Top
Find wool suits, tuxedos, coats and winter accessories for your next cold-weather celebration. Shop online or visit one of our 80+ locations across Canada.
