Attending a winter event, such as a wedding or gala, can be a challenge when temperatures drop. While a formal dress is an essential piece for the occasion, choosing what to wear over it to protect yourself from the cold without compromising elegance is just as important. In this guide, we'll reveal several winter formal pieces that can be paired with your formal dress to face the cold in style.
1. Elegant coat
A long and refined coat is the best choice when it comes to maintaining elegance without sacrificing warmth. If your formal dress is particularly elegant, choose a tailored coat, preferably in wool or cashmere, which adds a touch of class to your outfit. The long coat is perfect for formal outdoor events and will allow you to stay warm without ruining your look.
How to match it:
Choose a coat in neutral colors like black, beige or gray so as not to distract attention from your dress. If the dress is very sober, you can opt for a colored coat, perhaps in a pastel shade or burgundy, for a more daring touch.
2. Bolero or jacket
For those ceremonies where you don't want to wear a heavy coat , the bolero or jacket is an ideal solution. These short garments protect the shoulders and arms without weighing down the figure. Made of soft fabrics such as wool, velvet or cashmere, the bolero or jacket gives a feeling of comfort without sacrificing elegance.
How to match it:
A velvet bolero or wool jacket, preferably paired with a high-necked or short-sleeved dress, is ideal for an evening event. For an even more elegant look, choose models with details such as embroidery or appliques.
3. Faux fur coat
If you want a faux fur coat with a touch of luxury without harming the environment, the faux fur coat is the perfect choice. With its luxurious look, it can add a regal air to your look. Faux fur is also lighter than other materials, allowing you to move with ease.
How to match it:
Opt for faux fur coats in neutral colors like white, black or gray if your formal dress is rich in details. If the dress is minimalist, you can choose a fur in brighter shades like pink or blue, to create an interesting and trendy contrast.
4. Elegant cape
The cape is another accessory that can transform a formal dress into a true style statement. Not only will it keep you warm, but it will also add a dramatic effect to your look. Made of materials such as wool, tweed or cashmere, the cape is ideal for those who want a touch of class without sacrificing practicality.
How to match it:
A gray or black cape pairs perfectly with a dark-toned dress , while a colorful or patterned cape can be the centerpiece of a simpler look. Choose a style that reaches just below the hips for a more flowing effect or one that covers the entire upper body for extra protection.
5. Tuxedo jacket
The tuxedo jacket, traditionally masculine, is a sophisticated alternative for those who want a formal and stylish look. This tailored garment is well suited to gala ceremonies or events of great importance. The tuxedo jacket is perfect for completing your outfit, adding a modern and elegant touch.
How to match it:
A black tuxedo jacket, in satin or fine wool, can be worn over long or midi formal dresses, especially those with a V-neck or lower neckline. Another option is to choose a masculine-cut jacket, with gold buttons, for an interesting contrast with a more feminine dress .
6. Leather jacket
For those who love a bolder and more modern look, the leather jacket is a choice that does not go unnoticed. Although less traditional, this jacket can be a great solution for less formal ceremonies or to add a touch of originality to your formal outfit. Opt for thin and well-cut models, preferably in black or brown leather.
How to match it:
A black leather jacket is perfect over a dark or metallic formal suit. If your suit is particularly elegant, choose a leather jacket with clean lines and without too many details to maintain the balance between casual and formal.
7. Scarf or stole in fine fabrics
For a refined and sophisticated look, a wool, cashmere or silk scarf can be the ideal accessory to combine over a formal dress. The scarf or stole is perfect for delicately wrapping yourself without completely covering your outfit. This versatile accessory offers warmth without compromising elegance.
How to match it:
A cashmere or silk stole in pastel or neutral tones can be wrapped around the shoulders of an elegant formal dress , adding a touch of light. If your dress is colorful, choose a scarf that matches the color or a contrasting scarf for a more lively look.
8. Classic suit jacket
A suit jacket in a neutral color, such as black or gray, is a great choice to maintain an elegant and formal look. If the formal dress is a silk or taffeta ball gown, a black suit jacket in wool or tweed, with a perfect cut and subtle details such as silver buttons, the combination is perfect for an official event such as a diplomatic ceremony or an inauguration party.
9. Classic trench jacket
The classic trench coat in a neutral color, such as beige or khaki, is a great choice to maintain an elegant and refined appearance. If the formal suit is in a sober color, such as black or navy, a beige trench coat , with its characteristic bronze buttons and double sleeves, is the perfect match for a church wedding or an official ceremony. It can be worn closed or left open, depending on the occasion and your personal style.
10. Lightweight Trench Jacket
If the cold isn't too bad, a lightweight trench coat in a fabric like cotton or linen can be a great choice. If your formal dress is in a light color, like pink or yellow, a trench coat in a complementary color, like sky blue or pastel green, can be a great choice. For example, if you're wearing a pink formal dress in silk with lace details, a sky blue trench coat in cotton, with a belted cut and long sleeves, creates a fashionable and casual look, suitable for a summer event like a garden reception.
Conclusions
When temperatures drop, choosing what to wear over a formal dress is a balancing act between elegance and practicality. Long coats, tuxedo jackets , boleros and faux furs are all perfect solutions for staying warm during a special event. Choose the right piece based on the occasion and the dress you have chosen to ensure you look elegant and comfortable throughout the ceremony.