What to Wear This Month: November Weddings and Dressy Evenings

November weddings and dinners run from semi-formal to black tie, and the cold does not stay outside. The ceremony may be warm, but photos, taxi lines and walks between venues are not. These five outfits start with the dress code and add a layer that suits it.

Start With the Dress Code and Venue

For men, the invitation’s dress code comes first. Black tie generally calls for a tuxedo. Formal and cocktail events leave room for a dark suit and coordinated accessories.

For women, a longer hemline is the usual choice in November. A floor-length gown suits most formal codes, and a formal midi works for semi-formal and afternoon events. A sleeveless gown can work if the venue is fully indoors and well heated.

Five Outfits Built for the Season

1. The ink-blue satin midi

Wear an ink-blue satin midi dress with a black cropped jacket, burgundy ankle boots and gold earrings. Choose satin with a substantial lining rather than a thin, summer slip fabric.

2. Separates for a daytime ceremony

Pair wide-leg crepe trousers with a draped blouse. A column skirt with a fitted knit and sculptural earrings is an alternative. Both go from ceremony to evening without a change.

3. The jewel-tone maxi with a tailored layer

For a formal evening, wear a floor-length satin or lace maxi in a deep jewel tone. Add a tailored camel or black blazer for outdoor moments, nude pointed-toe pumps and pearl or crystal earrings.

4. Navy or charcoal suit, wool overcoat

A navy or charcoal suit with a dress shirt and tie suits many November weddings. Add a tailored wool overcoat and a simple scarf for the outdoor parts of the event. Black leather shoes suit a dark formal suit. Dark brown leather pairs with navy or brown tailoring when the dress code allows.

5. The relaxed option

For casual celebrations, a textured sport coat with dress pants works. A fine-gauge sweater under the coat is also appropriate. A knit dress or a simple floral dress in a relaxed A-line shape covers the same ground for women.

Fabrics and Colors

Velvet is soft and insulating, which makes it a good fit for late-season formal events. Satin and silk give a sheen that shows well in evening light. Jacquard and brocade add texture and warmth.

For men’s suiting, wool is the classic choice, with smooth finishes for dressier settings. Flannel is softer and textured. Tweed suits rustic or less formal venues.

Deep teal, ink blue, aubergine, chocolate and smoky rose feel festive without competing with the wedding party. Black also works for an evening or city venue. Add velvet, satin, jewelry or a colored shoe so it reads as celebratory rather than like office wear.

Layers and Shoes

• Choose a structured coat or an elegant wrap that complements the dress, and take heavier layers off once indoors.
• Pack a plush shawl, faux-fur wrap or dress coat even for indoor events.
• Avoid a casual puffer unless the invitation is very relaxed and the event is mostly outdoors.
• Wear closed-toe shoes for outdoor ceremonies or receptions.
• Choose matte opaque tights close to the shoe color, and use them only when the dress code and venue suit them.