What to Wear to Winter Formal: Trendy Dress Ideas and How to Stand Out

Winter formal is your chance to feel like a true snow princess. But, figuring out what to wear to winter formal can feel like a full-time job. Between finding the perfect color, the right silhouette, and something that keeps you warm while still looking cute, it’s a lot. 

But that’s why Peaches Boutique is here to help. 

Whether you’re going for something full-on glam or more sleek and subtle, this quick guide will help you find the perfect dress for your cozy, classy night. 

Table of Contents

1. Trending Winter Formal Dress Styles 
2. Best Winter Formal Dress Colors
3. Choosing the Dress Right Length
4. Frequently Asked Questions

Winter Formal Dress Styles That are Trending in 2025

Winter formal dress styles in 2025 are all about beautiful silhouettes, unique textures, and subtle drama. From curve-hugging mermaid gowns to flowy A-line dresses, there’s something for every style and body type – especially when you shop through Peaches Boutique. 

When it comes to trending winter formal dress styles, you can think of elevated elegance: high slits, sleek bodices, and unexpected details that make your look more personal than ever. But how do you choose? 

Knowing your ideal silhouette can help you narrow down what to wear to winter formal, making shopping way less overwhelming. Below are some of the top winter formal dress styles everyone’s loving right now. 

Corset-Bodice Dresses 

A corset-bodice dress is an amazing winter formal option for those looking to feel soft, romantic, and a little glamorous. These dresses are great when you want a fitted look that highlights your waist while still feeling comfortable and tucked in. 

You can find these winter formal dress styles in all different shades and sizes, creating options for just about everyone. 

High-Slit Gowns 

A little leg never hurt nobody. This look strikes a balance between sophistication and edge, making it perfect for showcasing a killer pair of shoes. 

Try pairing it with a more covered top half, such as a long-sleeved top or a high-neckline, to create a lovely modern contrast. 

Off-the-Shoulder Styles

Off-the-shoulder silhouettes can be a go-to for an effortless, feminine vibe. They frame your collarbones beautifully and work well with both simple and bold accessories. This style is flattering on practically everyone and brings a soft, romantic energy to any winter formal look. 

Best Winter Formal Dress Colors for a Frosty Fashion Moment

Choosing the right winter formal dress color can completely change the aesthetic of your look, and this year’s dresses are serving up some seriously stunning shades. 

From rich, moody tones to ice-cool hues, the color you wear can help you stand out while still feeling seasonally appropriate. Here are some of the best winter formal dress colors to show off at this year’s dance: 

• Deep Emerald Green: Luxurious and bold, this shade looks amazing on all skin tones and pairs beautifully with gold accessories.

• Midnight Navy: A chic alternative to black, navy adds depth and elegance without feeling too harsh.

• Icy Blue: This soft, ethereal color gives serious winter wonderland energy and looks gorgeous with silver or pearl accents.

• Burgundy or Wine Red: A timeless winter formal classic that feels both romantic and dramatic in all the right ways.

• Champagne or Soft Gold: For the girls who want to glow, these shades shimmer under the lights and photograph beautifully.

• Classic Black: Still trending, still iconic. Add texture like sequins or velvet to keep it from feeling too simple.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with unexpected hues, either. Even bold colors like magenta or dark purple can make a statement when styled the right way.

 Long or Short? Choosing the Right Length for Your Winter Formal Dress

One of the biggest questions when shopping for a winter formal dress is whether to go long or short. While every school is a little different, most winter formals lean more semi-formal than prom, which means you have flexibility with your look. 

Shorter styles, like cocktail dresses or fit-and-flare silhouettes, are super popular because they feel fun, youthful, and are easy to dance in. Longer gowns, on the other hand, give you that red carpet moment and are perfect if you want a more dramatic entrance. 

But, when in doubt, check your school’s dress code guidelines before shopping so you know what’s expected. Many schools allow both lengths, but may have rules about necklines, cutouts, or hemlines that are worth keeping in mind. 

Whether you choose long or short, Peaches Boutique has thousands of trendy winter formal dresses that will let you look stylish while still being dress-code friendly. 

Winter Formal Dress FAQs