What to wear to a winter wedding as a guest

A winter wedding has three climates. The walk from the car and the photos outside are cold. The ceremony room can be cool. The dinner and the dancing are warm. An outfit that only works in one of them will make you miserable in the other two.

So build in layers you can take off, and choose fabrics that hold warmth. Wool, velvet, satin with a lining, a heavy crepe. Thin summer chiffon looks and feels out of season in December.

Base: a trouser suit in a rich colour, or a long-sleeve midi or maxi dress. Magenta, emerald, burgundy and navy all read festive in winter light. Leave white and ivory to the couple.

Feet: a block heel, a heeled boot or a smart loafer. Paths can be wet or icy, and you may cross grass or gravel for the photos.

Coat: the one you like looking at. You will wear it in the outdoor photos, so a wool coat in a neutral that goes with the outfit matters as much as the outfit.

Extras: tights in a skin tone or black, and a wrap or scarf for the walk between buildings.

Winter weather changes the plan more than any other season. Check the forecast three days out and again the night before.

Put the wedding in your Sleqk planner with the city and the date. The stylist checks that day's weather and builds complete outfits from your own pieces, so a freezing forecast gets a suit and a coat instead of a slip dress. See each option on your own photo. If you cannot choose, send both to friends as one link and let them vote.