There’s a lot to consider when planning any wedding, but winter weddings come with their own unique challenges and considerations and the freezing cold temperature is most definitely one of those challenges. Staying warm at a winter wedding is essential, nobody likes to see red noses or blue hands so picking the right few accessories to keep you cosy is key.
Whether you're looking for a bolero, jacket, scarf or shrug to keep you and your ladies cosy on the big day, we have put together 15 of our favourite Bride and Bridesmaids Cover Up Ideas to keep you warm. We have everything covered (excuse the pun!) to help you beat the winter chill at your wedding as you can also find out where to shop for cosy bride and bridesmaids cover-ups to complete your winter wedding look.
Bride and Bridesmaids Cover Up Ideas
1. Cardigans & Sweaters
A chic, cosy cardigan or sweater is what winter wedding wardrobe dreams are made of! Even better, it can be worn after you've said "I do."
2. Long Capes
Utterly romantic and oh-so-chic, a long bridal cape is impossible to forget! This statement making accessory would make the perfect addition to a winter wedding gown. A cape is a slightly more expensive bridal cover up, but if your budget allows for it it can be a beautiful addition to you and your bridesmaids winter wedding ensemble.
3. Leather Jackets/Moto Jackets
One of our favorite bridal cover up trends is the leather or moto jacket. Personally we feel everybody should have one in their wardrobe! Not only does it go with just about any outfit, but it also makes for a cool and edgy addition to your bridal look. Adding a leather jacket will give you the ability to wear a more traditional wedding gown, but maintain that rocker edge. There are lots of great artists who can also personalise your jacket for you. Just check out this feature.
4. Cosy Winter Coats
Whether it's a chic overcoat or ultra snug teddy coat, if you’re like us and you love a good, cosy winter coat why not wear one with your wedding dress! Perfect for the really colder months, it'll keep you extra warm getting from the car to the ceremony, and the ceremony to the reception, and all of the photo stops inbetween.
5. Capelets
The adorable little sister of the long floor-length cape, a capelet is mini version which lands around elbow length. For a traditional or vintage look look, consider a lace-trimmed or embellished version. If you're throwing a more modern winter celebration, a sleek tailored version is your best choice.
6. Sequins
Adding a dash of drama and an unexpected twist, a sequin bridal jacket makes for a truly unforgettable bridal cover-up. The versatility of this modern piece will allow you to wear it for all of your bridal events and beyond.
7. Blazers
For a sleek and sophisticated, fashion-forward winter bridal look, why not opt for a white bridal blazer? We love a good, tailored blazer on a bride as they can be worn with almost any style of gown. Like a more relaxed look? Go for an oversized blazer instead of a more fitted style.
8. Lace
If you're a bride looking to wear different looks throughout your day, go for a delicate lace topper, shrug, bolero or jacket that can easily be removed once you say "I do" or added to your evening look.
9. Faux Fur Shawls and Jackets
If you plan to get married in much cooler temperatures, a faux fur shawl or jacket is a practical choice for late autumn and winter nuptials.
10. Colourful Coats
Styled up with anything from a bridal gown to bridal suit or bridal mini, we love a bride in a colourful coat! Plus, it's something special to use in your everyday wardrobe after the wedding!
11. Duster and Trench Coats
If you're looking to incorporate something edgy, and a bit more fashion-forward than the classic bride and bridesmaids cover up ideas, a chic duster or trench coat is a perfect addition to your look that will take to from your engagement party, rehearsal dinner, day-of, the after-party and beyond. Your bridesmaids will look pretty chic in one too!
12. Denim Jackets
A denim jacket will add a casual, chic touch while keeping off the winter chill. If you want your denim jacket to have an extra personal touch, you can have it embroidered with your name, your new surname, "bride", or something sweet like "forever". Denim jackets also makes for a stunning bridal portrait or fun bridesmaids photo op! Also, you can rock your denim jacket over and over again after your special day—including your honeymoon.
13. Light Shawls, Wraps and Pashminas
Shawls, wraps and pashminas are perfect for adding an extra bit of warmth to your bridal look or bridesmaid dresses. Ideal for keeping cosy during the ceremony and outdoor portraits during the autumn-winter season.
14. Feathers
Turn heads in a feathered cover-up look! Whether it's a jacket, bolero, shrug or cape, drape it over your wedding dress or a little white mini for your rehearsal dinner or reception. This party-ready look is ideal for the glamorous bride.
15. Boleros & Stoles
Adding a chic textured bolero or stole to your wedding ensemble will not add an extra dose of glam to your wedding gown and your bridesmaids dresses, but keep you all extra warm too!
To see more winter wedding style ideas check out our Favourite Autumn Winter Bridesmaid Looks and for top tips on how to combat the unpredictable Irish weather check our expert advice on how to deal with Wedding Day Wet Weather.
