What to Wear to a Winter Wedding in Spain: A Guide for Guests

alt text: Woman in a long sleeve velvet dress with a fascinator

Attending a wedding in Spain is an exciting experience, but navigating the dress code can be tricky, especially for a winter wedding. To help you blend in seamlessly and avoid any fashion faux pas, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on what to wear to a winter wedding in Spain.

Understanding Spanish Wedding Dress Codes

Spanish weddings are known for their elegance and sophistication, and the dress code reflects this. While not as strict as some cultures, there are still some unspoken rules to follow.

Day vs. Night Weddings:

• Day Weddings: Typically involve a ceremony before 2 pm, followed by a lunch reception.

  • Women: Opt for knee-length or midi dresses, elegant jumpsuits, or chic skirt and top combinations.
  • Men: A morning suit is appropriate for close family and the wedding party. Otherwise, a suit with a tie or a blazer and slacks is suitable.

• Night Weddings: Usually commence after 5 pm, with a dinner reception.

  • Women: Floor-length gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant pantsuits are ideal choices.
  • Men: A dark suit is customary, and a tuxedo may be appropriate for very formal occasions.

Key Rules:

• Avoid White: This rule is universal, but it’s especially important in Spain, where the bride is the only one who should wear white.
• Embrace Heels: Spanish women love their heels, and weddings are no exception. Opt for a comfortable pair, and bring flats for dancing later.
• Don’t Repeat Outfits: It’s considered bad etiquette to wear the same outfit to multiple weddings, especially if they are close together.

Winter Wedding Trends in Spain

Winter weddings in Spain offer a unique opportunity to embrace rich textures, darker hues, and stylish accessories.

Trending Elements:

• Velvet: This luxurious fabric is perfect for adding a touch of elegance and warmth to your winter wedding attire.
• Backless/Open Back Designs: A subtle way to add a touch of allure to your look while staying weather-appropriate with long sleeves or a wrap.
• Feathers and Fur: These details add a touch of glamour and texture to dresses, stoles, or accessories.
• Dark and Muted Tones: Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red are popular, along with rich neutrals like black, navy, and burgundy.
• Hats and Gloves: An elegant hat, like a fascinator (tocado) or a wide-brimmed hat (pamela), is a stylish way to complete your outfit. Gloves add a sophisticated touch, especially for evening events.

Renting Your Wedding Look: A Practical Tip

Attending multiple weddings can get expensive. Many Spanish women opt for renting their outfits from companies like La Mas Mona & Rental Mode, allowing you to wear designer pieces at a fraction of the cost.

Conclusion

With these tips, you’ll be sure to look stylish and feel confident at your next Spanish winter wedding. Embrace the elegance of the occasion, don’t be afraid to experiment with trends, and most importantly, enjoy the celebration!