Winter weddings hold a certain magic that’s hard to replicate.
Picture flickering candlelight, velvet textures, and the soft hush of snowfall outside.
While nearly three-quarters of weddings take place in spring and summer, choosing a winter date instantly gives your celebration a sense of uniqueness and intimacy.
Whether you’re deep in the planning stages or just dreaming of a festive, romantic celebration, this trend guide will help you curate a winter wedding filled with so much class and seasonal charm. From gowns to tablescapes, these are the ideas we’re loving this year.
1. Feathers
Feathers are one of this season’s most stylish bridal details.
Whether it’s a full-feathered skirt that floats behind you, a dramatic feathered cape, or simply a soft trim along your veil, feathers add movement, texture and a luxurious winter softness.
For the fashion-forward bride, we’re seeing bold feathered gowns and even feather trousers making an appearance in a truly unique bridal moment. For something more delicate, opt for feather accents on cuffs, hems or accessories like headpieces and clutches.
Make sure your feathers are ethically sourced or opt for beautiful faux alternatives.
2. The Fur Stole
A fur stole is a timeless winter bridal accessory, and one that so many forget about!
Not only does it add an element of vintage glamour, but it also serves a very important practical purpose by keeping you warm during outdoor moments.
Pairing a minimalist gown with a vintage stole creates a stunning contrast, evoking old Hollywood elegance. I personally adore sustainably sourced vintage options, they have that authentic charm that modern replicas can’t quite match.
And best of all, it’s a removable piece you can wear for portraits, then slip off when it’s time to hit the dancefloor.
3. Bridal Gloves
Gloves have made a major comeback, and we are obsessed.
Whether you choose clean satin to match a structured gown or soft lace for a more romantic look, gloves add instant sophistication. They’re especially ideal for winter brides who still want to wear a strapless dress.
Elegance and a touch of extra warmth. It's a double win.
4. Frosted Cakes
Move over, maximalist bakes. The new winter cake trend is all about frosted minimalism. This is the surefire way to avoid cliches - and who likes Christmas cake anyway?
Think snowy white blocks with powdered finishes, sculptural tiers reminiscent of ice sculptures, or whimsical snowball-inspired designs. Paired with crisp florals or a cluster of winter berries, these cakes are understated but breathtaking, the perfect match for a modern winter aesthetic.
5. Communal Dining Tables
There’s something so heart-warming about one long, communal dining table.
Perfect for winter, the layout encourages intimacy and conversation, especially when styled with a draped garland running the length of the table and an assortment of candles nestled throughout.
It's almost Hogwarts-esque, this very special feeling of everyone all together. How often does that happen?
6. A Candlelit Reception
Nothing captures the magic of a winter evening quite like candlelight. Whether you’re in a heritage venue like Offley Place or a rustic barn, candles create a soft, flickering glow that’s so romantic.
If your venue doesn’t allow real flames, don't worry - there are so many lovely LED alternatives available now.
For a magical look, mix pillar candles of varying heights along your aisle or reception tables. The result is an ambience that feels warm, elegant and completely timeless.
7. Champagne Tower
A champagne tower is more than just a drinks station, it’s a moment.
It brings theatre, interaction and a splash of vintage glamour to your celebration.
I had one at my own wedding and guests adored it. It’s a fun, interactive way to serve the first drink of the evening and makes for stunning photos. It’s also a chic alternative to a traditional cake cutting, and works beautifully alongside the winter theme.
Bonus tip: Add an espresso martini tower for the ultimate late-night lift. Perfect with dessert and guaranteed to get guests on the dancefloor.
8. Black Tie Dress Code
A black tie dress code in winter?
Yes.
It gives your wedding such a sense of grandeur and allows guests to fully embrace evening glamour in a way that’s often tricky in the summer heat.
Think tuxedos, floor-length gowns, and elevated accessories. If you do choose black tie, be clear on your invites and offer guests a little guidance so everyone feels confident and fabulous and you avoid any grumbles.
9. Moody Winter Florals
Moody florals are having their moment, and they’re perfect for winter.
Deep reds, burgundies, purples and forest greens bring drama and warmth, especially when paired with candlelight and metallics.
Dahlias, ranunculus and jasmine vine are great seasonal choices, but I’m currently obsessed with arrangements that combine anemones, Iceland poppies, persimmons and privet berry for an almost edible-looking richness.
This look is bold, sumptuous, and perfect for tablescapes and bouquets alike.
10. Custom Wedding Crests
Custom crests are becoming the ultimate wedding signature.
Whether you opt for a classic monogram or a whimsical design that tells your love story, crests can be used across your entire celebration, from invitations and menus to wax seals and even embroidered napkins.
They bring a bespoke detail to the day, and for winter weddings, they add that extra sprinkle of storybook charm.
11. Jazz Ensemble
Winter weddings lend themselves beautifully to live music, and nothing beats the warm energy of a jazz ensemble.
A smooth jazz quartet during drinks or dinner brings a richness to the atmosphere and makes your celebration feel like the most elegant affair. You can even transition to a more upbeat swing set for dancing later in the evening, it’s versatile, classic, and honestly, it just never goes out of style.
12. Ice Sculpture Details
If you really want to lean into the season, ice sculptures are the pièce de résistance.
Whether you freeze florals into clear ice columns to line your aisle or opt for a monogrammed sculpture as a centrepiece, these elements are as theatrical as they are beautiful. They’re bold, refined and undeniably wintry.
Go classic, go modern - it all works, and adds that special grand touch.
Winter weddings might take a little extra planning, especially when it comes to warmth and light, but they offer something truly magical. From sumptuous textures and candlelit moments to snowy-inspired cakes and statement accessories, there’s no shortage of inspiration to make your day unforgettable.
If you’re planning a winter wedding, I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up. Share your thoughts in the comments or over on Instagram at @the.curated.wedding.