How to Pick Out Your Winter Wedding Dress

Although winter weddings are a rarity in comparison with seasons like summer and fall, there is something to be said about the elegance and sophistication that a winter wedding has to offer. Even though a Midwest winter can feel burdensome, there is an unspeakable stillness and beauty that comes with winter days. In terms of weddings, we see more and more brides stray from the traditional wedding months and opt for a winter wedding instead. From hot cocoa bars to cozy venues with fireplaces and horse-drawn carriages to magical winter wedding photos, the allurement of a winter wedding is hard to resist. 

However enticing a winter wedding may be, finding the perfect dress to wear in the colder months can deter many brides from pursuing their winter wedding dreams. After all, the dress really is everything. Um, important. I meant to say the dress really is important. 

We consulted with MH Pomander's Bridal on how to seize the winter wedding style. No one knows wedding apparel quite like MH Pomander's. The Indianapolis bridal salon is award-winning and held in high regard by brides as it carries highly desirable gowns and accessories from distinguished designers. Martha from MH Pomander's was helpful in providing insight to WeddingDay Magazine about both the challenges and the allure of winter wedding fashion. 

WeddingDay: What are the challenges in choosing a gown + accessories during colder months?

MH Pomander's:  We absolutely love winter weddings!  There are so many fabulous styling opportunities that come with a colder month wedding.  A bride can start with a strapless gown and completely change up the look with a lace or beaded bolero.  Alternatively, it's an excellent opportunity to wear the latest look in wedding gowns, a tattoo lace dress with long sleeves and a sexy, low back.  The options are endless!

WeddingDay: What do you love about winter wedding fashions?

MH Pomander's: We love the drama that comes with a winter wedding.  Snow flakes falling from the sky, provide a perfect backdrop for a bride dashing to her ceremony in a white velvet cape and cashmere gloves. The layering pieces used to ward off the winter chill can be as individual as the bride herself.

WeddingDay: What are some fun accessories that a bride can work with for a winter wedding?

MH Pomander's: Again, the accessories possibilities for a winter bride are as unique or classic as each individual bride.  We love the look of a vintage fur stole or a faux fur wrap.  We are also obsessed with full length velvet hooded capes and smaller scaled, capelets.  Kid or cashmere gloves add drama to a wedding dress as well.  Long sleeved lace jackets with stand colors add beauty and elegance to a classic satin sheath gown.

WeddingDay: What do you recommend that brides wear for shoes for a winter wedding, maybe while taking outdoor photos?

MH Pomander's: We truly love statement wedding shoes.  Glitz and glam on a bride's feet are fabulous and a great addition to any bride's wedding day look.  That being said, especially for winter, inclement weather weddings, every bride should have an alternative, comfortable warm shoe to change into for dashing from one location to another.  Whether it be furry boots, or waterproof tennis shoes, make sure this second pair of shoes is comfortable and well broken in.  No need for blisters on your wedding day!

WeddingDay: Do you see many brides coming in asking about winter wedding apparel?

MH Pomander's: As Fall and Winter close in, we often are consulted about winter wedding accessories.  Ideally, it is best if the bride makes accessories decisions at, or close to the time her gown is ordered as they too may have a few months lead time.  Occasionally, though, we can sell accessories "off the rack."

WeddingDay: What do you recommend for bridesmaids of a winter wedding?

MH Pomander's: We love the idea of a pashmina or shawl as a bridesmaid gift.  They are both practical and beautiful and lovely in photographs.