My debut into the world of bridal jackets happened last winter, when a friend excitedly phoned to tell me she would be getting married the following fall season.
“I need your help in the fashion and style department.” she said.
“I’m your girl!” I answered. “What can I do?”
“I have no clue what to do about wearing something to stay warm. We’ll be outside going to and from the car to the church, to the reception, and definitely for our photos.”
Having had a summer wedding myself, it wasn’t something I had even considered purchasing. Even if the evening turned cool, we would be inside the reception venue staying warm by dancing up a storm.
PinDo you need a Bridal Jacket?
Fall and winter weddings have that extra element of a chilly day, in which you often can’t brave the outdoors with bare shoulders without freezing your tail off. A bridal jacket can not only be the perfect thing to cover up and stay warm, it can also be a very luxurious compliment to your overall look.
The wedding day scene is set: Leaves change color and blend into a beautiful palette of brilliant oranges, reds, and greens. You’re ready to go outside for some incredible photos.
What we love about a bridal jacket is that you could potentially use it many times in your regular rotation of jackets. If you choose a coverup that’s a classic style and cut (think cropped blazer) you might be able to stretch your dollar by wearing later it to work or formal events.
How can you really go wrong with a piece that can stick around in your wardrobe long after your big day? Not to mention you’ll feel all warm and fuzzy every time you slip it on.
Choose the perfect bridal jacket for your gown
You must consider the style of your dress — is it classic? Boho? Timeless or old-fashioned?
- A more elaborate dress – wearing a dress with a lot of detail like beads, sequins, pearls, or lace? You will want to keep it fairly simple on top. A basic bolero, shawl, or cap-sleeved jacket will work well to complete your fall look.
- Simpler dress – particularly on top (a basic strapless or sweetheart neckline) you can get a little more adventurous with your coverup. An elegant fur stole, lace or eyelet details, and even a little bling would be a great addition to a simple gown.
- Bride on a budget – there are ways to save when it comes to jackets. Faux fur can be every bit as luxurious and beautiful in photos. Purchase a plain white jacket and adorn it yourself with iron-on appliques, gems or sequins. Finally, if you have a crafty friend or family member, choose some luxurious fabric/wool, find a pattern and ask them to sew, knit or crochet one for you as a wedding gift.
After my thorough investigation, I shortlisted a few options for my bestie and she chose the Joliet Jacket from BHLDN. That bridal jacket unfortunately is no longer available but below you can see a few more that I found that were just too beautiful not to share.
Beautiful Bridal Jackets for Fall
Our list of top bridal jackets & wraps for fall includes expensive to affordable, classic styles for traditional brides, those who are definitely boho bride material, and everything in between.
5.0
A beautiful capelet in snow color is your classic fur jacket. With authentic feather and fur, this piece is as soft and luxurious as it gets. We love that it has open sleeves for a delicate, draping effect without compromising on warmth.The bonus with this beautiful fashionable piece is that it can be worn again and again long after the wedding.
Why I like it:
- Open sleeves provide coverage without restriction
- Warm and perfect for winter weddings
- Can be worn open or clipped shut
5.0
Classic cashmere wrap in white that is one of those can’t-go-wrong options. It is one of the few pieces that are guaranteed to go with just about every wedding gown and accessory. Wrap it casually around your shoulders or pin it together with a gorgeous statementbrooch.
Why I like it:
- Versatile enough to wear to other wedding events
- Add a broach for extra sparkle
- Lightweight and warm
4.7
Nothing screamsold Hollywoodglam like an ostrich feather shrug. Bring a little extra texture and dimension into your look with a feathered shrug. Ostrich feather is soft, warm, and the perfect little touch of elegance.
Why I like it:
- Adds a vintage touch
- Ostrich feathers add warmth
- Feminine and glamorous
4.8
Our top pick is this elegant alpaca wool bridal jacket. Beautiful, simple, and timeless, this piece will keep you warm in alpaca fleece.
Why I like it:
- A keepsake you can wear again and again
- Warm enough for the cool or chilly days
- High neck gives an Edwardian feel
4.9
This one’s for the alternative chicks, boho babes, or just plain anyone who wants to make a statement with a white bridal jacket. Another marriage (excuse the pun) of masculine and feminine, a moto jacket is a great way to keep warm and look like a freaking rock star while you’re at it.
Why I like it:
- Gives an edgy vibe to a traditional gown
- Leather will keep out a chill on windy days
- Wearable for years to come
4.9
We had to throw in a bonus, as our list of wedding dress jackets and wraps would not be complete without at least one traditional fur stole-style piece. The above wrap has a little 1920s flavor à la Betty Davis, suitable for even the coldest fall day.
Why I like it:
- Exudes old Hollywood glam
- Faux fur is PETA friendly
- Looks great open or wrapped
5.0
The best of both worlds collide in this gorgeous wedding bridal bolero jacket. The delicate applique of this sheer bolero easily blends into most bridal designs, looking like the sleeves were originally part of the dress instead of an add-on. And the sheer coverage is perfect for an open back dress.
Why I like it:
- Fitted sleeves
- Illusion coverage perfect for strapless gown
- Perfect for adding coverage for ceremonies without looking like an add-on
5.0
Cozy and stylish, this blush stole wrap is perfect for the winter bride. There are multiple colors to choose from to match your theme while the hook and eye closure will keep it in place and your hands free. And since it's constructed of high-quality faux-fur, its animal friendly.
Why I like it:
- Warm enough for winter weddings
- Easy to wear hands free
- Faux-fur and animal friendly
4.3
This lightweight pashmina is the perfect compliment to your dress. The raw edges give it a bohemian look, and the lightweight fabric is perfect for warmer nights.
Why I like it:
- One-size so no fitting required
- Great for a beach wedding
- Easily transition to other outfits after your wedding
5.0
Scattered with hand-sewn pearls, this piece is the perfect addition to your dress. The sheer construction provides a bit of interest without adding weight or too much coverage. Plus the pearls give it a bit of a vintage vibe.
Why I like it:
- Romantic and lightweight
- Over-the-shoulder styling makes it easy to wear
- Perfect for a wedding at a historic landmark
5.0
There’s something sexy and unexpected about a cropped jacket juxtaposed with a feminine bridal gown. Tailored and effortlessly chic, this would look amazing over a gown, or even with a non-traditional or modern route like a pantsuit.
Why I like it:
- Structured yet feminine
- Pockets for keeping essentials on wedding day
- Pearl buttons to close the jacket for more coverage
5.0
Dramatic and elegant, a cape is a gorgeous addition to add a bit of wow to any dress. This cape gives an ethereal feel while the slight shine adds a touch of sparkle.
Why I like it:
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Offers more coverage than a jacket or shawl
- Ups the elegance of any dress
Looking for the feel of a cape without the length? This shrug is simple, lightweight, and perfect for bohemian vibes. The delicate floral applique gives just the right coverage without overpowering the dress.
Why I like it:
- Easy to wear coverage
- Delicate and elegant
- Floral applique is perfect for a bohemian style
Another cape made it onto our list, but this one has a bit more coverage. With a front panel, this cape covers while adding elegance to any dress. Perfect to cover you during a religious service and remove for your reception.
Why I like it:
- Satin fabric provides full coverage
- Back keyhole adds modest detail
- Train adds additional drama
5.0
Queenly indeed. This wrap gives royalty vibes. While still sheer, the chiffon fabric gives a bit more coverage than some of the other options listed. Our favorite part, the hood. It screams fantastical.
Why I like it:
- Hood gives a princess look
- Soft chiffon is lightweight while providing coverage
- A minimal train adds drama without too much weight
Materials in Bridal Jackets
Brides choose jackets for a variety of reasons. Staying warm is a good reason, but so is fashion!
Buying a bridal jacket to keep extra warm? Make sure to evaluate the material and look for a jacket lining. If the jacket is strictly to add flair and fashion appeal on your big day, you should still evaluate the fabric. Here’s a quick 101 of the primary fabrics you’ll find in a bridal jacket.
- Boucle – a yarn with a rough and irregular appearance that is woven into garments.
- Charmeuse – comes in either a synthetic or silk variety. It has a lightweight satin weave with a dull backing and a lustrous front finish.
- Chiffon – can be synthetic or made from cotton or silk. The look is sheer and a little rough feeling.
- Feathers – can come from a variety of birds or as a man-made material. Jackets can be made entirely from feathers or added as embellishments. Check out this feather wedding dress from a styled shoot feature!
- Fur – real fur comes from animals while faux fur is manmade. Both faux fur and real fur are soft and warm.
- Taffeta – a high end synthetic or silk fabric that can be either soft or rigid.
- Lace – is a machined or handmade fabric with a patterned network of fabric and open spaces. Lace is made with cotton, linen, silk, or synthetic materials.
- Organza – usually made from silk. However, it can also be made with nylon or polyester.
- Satin – made from polyester, nylon, or silk with a high luster on the front, and a dull backing.
- Tulle – is a netting of nylon, rayon, or silk. Bridal veils are most commonly made from tulle.
A wedding held in cooler seasons is a wonderful opportunity to accessorize in ways that many summertime brides just can’t do. If you have a cozy bridal jacket ready, you can put your mind at ease that you won’t be standing around with goosebumps on a day when you don’t need any extra worries. Not to mention, you’ll look fabulous!
Whether you choose something fancy and traditional, or something to make a statement, a jacket for your wedding day is both a practical and stylish addition.
We would love to hear what you have in mind to stay cozy for a fall or winter wedding this season!
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