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What to Wear to a Winery: An Outfit For All Terrains


There’s nothing quite like journeying out to a winery. We’re pretty lucky here in Australia — we boast some of the best wineries in the world, from the
Hunter Valley in New South Wales to the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria. The air is fresh, the views are breathtaking, and, well, there’s wine. It’s hard to beat that combination. If you’ve ever found yourself staring blankly into your closet wondering what to wear to a winery, you’re not alone. Wineries are a popular location for a number of different events — think lunch with the girls, weddings, and group wine tastings — so it can be tricky to work out just how ‘dressy’ your outfit should be. In this guide, we break down how to dress for a winery depending on the occasion and the season.

Do Wineries Have Dress Codes?


It’s pretty rare for a winery to have a set dress code. You’re more likely to receive an invitation to an event at a winery, and that invitation will detail the dress code.

Generally, though, wineries are a step up from your run-of-the-mill restaurant. That’s why you’ll notice people tend to dress up a bit more when heading to a winery.

These days, you can wear a chic matching tracksuit set pretty much everywhere, so why not make the most of an opportunity to step out in something special?

How to Dress For a Winery


When deciding on what to wear to a winery, we generally recommend taking a two-step approach.


First, consider the reason for the trip. As we mentioned, wineries are a popular venue for all kinds of events.

Perhaps you’re heading out for a romantic weekend away, or maybe you’re off for a day of wine tasting with a big group of friends. What you wear will largely depend on how formal the event itself will be.

Next, you’ll need to consider the weather. This isn’t just from a practical perspective (though comfort really can make or break the day). Stylistically, different seasons call for different colours, patterns, and silhouettes. To really nail your look, you’ll want to keep this in mind.


Below, we take you through what to wear to a winery depending on the occasion and the season.

For Lunch with the Girls

If you’re off to a winery with the girls and there’s no specific dress code, make the most of this styling freedom! 

Summer and Spring


So, you’re spending a sunny afternoon drinking wine and eating food with your best friends. For this kind of occasion, you’ll want to strike the balance between comfort and chic.

We recommend light, floaty silhouettes in soft creamy tones. Look to puff sleeve detailing and relaxed skirting — these elements work together to create a flattering shape. It’s also a good idea to opt for lightweight cotton or linen pieces, as these fabrics will keep you cool if it’s especially hot.

As for accessories, look to low mules, basket bags, and gold-toned jewellery for a summery feel.


Aje Gracious Cut Out Dress

The Aje Gracious Cut Out Dress is a stunning mini that exudes exudes elegance and femininity. This dress features a frill skirt and voluminous shoulders which are offset by a cut-out and back tie. In a beautiful bright orange, this dress makes the perfect summer outfit for a lunch with the girls at a winery. Pair this gorgeous mini dress with some sandals or wedge heels to elevate the look.


Sir The Label Ambroise Knot Dress

The Sir The Label Ambroise Knot Dress is a sleeveless midi dress featuring a cut out at the waist and a knotted tie at the waist and shoulder. In a gorgeous floral print, this gorgeous winery dress is the perfect example of floral fantasy. This stunning daytime event dress is the perfect style that can be dressed down for casual events or styled to suit more formal events. A staple piece for the warmer seasons.


Autumn and Winter

 

As the weather cools, swap out soft tones for rich earthy hues. Keep in mind that you don’t need to eliminate colour from a winter look. Being guided by the landscape is often a good starting point, so look to orange, yellows, and olive green hues during autumn and winter.

If you’re going to be inside for most of the day, a long sleeve mini dress will work well. Bring the look together with a crossbody bag and strappy heels.

If you’re winery-hopping or planning to spend the day outside, opt for a midi dress instead. That extra length will help to seal in the heat and protect your legs from a biting winter breeze. Midi dresses also pair well with winter coats and boots, which will be your go-to accessories if you’re outdoors all day.


L'idee Theatre Mini Dress

The Li'dee Theatre Mini Dress is a super unique, fun and playful style especially for if you are needing a dress for events such as lunch and cocktails with the girls. The dress features a fitted waist and flared umbrella skirt which gives a flattering silhouette, as well as a rounded neckline and soft flared sleeves for a touch of elegance. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, invited to a wedding, or just enjoying a day out at a winery, this dress is sure to turn heads, especially with its stunning midnight blue colour.


Sir The Label Rei Knot Dress

The Sir The Label Rei Knot Dress is a gorgeous linen style that features an on trend cut out at the waist with a knotted tie on the waist and shoulder. In a beautiful beige with rusted orange floral print, this dress compliments the autumn season and the colours that it brings to the atmosphere. Linen dresses are perfect for more casual events which is why this dress would be perfectly suited for a winery event with some sandals and minimal jewellery.


For a Wedding

A winery is the ideal setting for a wedding. Wineries deliver on all fronts, providing stunning natural backdrops, perfect lighting, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Summer and Spring


Weddings at wineries usually apply a cocktail or lounge suit dress code. For both of these dress codes, we recommend opting for a midi or maxi length dress. While mini dresses can definitely work at cocktail parties, it’s safest to avoid anything above the knee for a wedding.  

In warmer months, we love vibrant colours and simple silhouettes. If you’re loving the bright colour trend, go for something in tangerine, apple green, or cobalt blue. For something a little more understated, muted blues, violets, and yellows work well.

During summer and spring, cut out detailing can deliver a refreshing look — just ensure the cutouts are minimal and tasteful.

For accessories, go for strappy block heels (stilettos are a no-go if you’ll be standing on grass) and a simple clutch. Want to take your look up a notch? Ditch your neutral-toned accessories and experiment with colour blocking instead.


L'idee Renaissance Split Gown

The L'idee Renaissance Split Gown in bright green, is the perfect summer wedding guest dress. With the famous L'idee pleating in the umbrella skirt and halter, you will be looking sleek and elegant with this dress. This statement piece is perfect for garden parties or winery weddings as it can be dressed up or dressed down depending on how formal the occasion is.

This style also comes in colours: ballet pink, dusty rose, floss pink, chocolate, sea green, sky blue and hot pink for a look with no split.


Bec + Bridge Amber Maxi Dress

The Bec + Bridge Amber Maxi Dress is a stunning dress made from a luxe silk. This dress is a sleek, statement and timeless design that features a ruched bust detailing, thin straps and a plunging open back. This elegant wedding guest dress is perfect for the spring/summer season as the candy pink colour stands out. A simple understated style that is perfect for a winery wedding.


Autumn and Winter

When it comes to autumn and winter winery weddings, sleeves are a must. Not only will they add a bit of extra coziness that you’ll be very thankful for as night falls, but they also create a glamorous silhouette.

Where linen and cotton are ideal in summer, silky fabrications are perfect for cooler months. We’re particularly loving designs with pleating or ruffled detailing for a touch of old-world glamour and a feminine flair.

Colour-wise, if you want to avoid black and grey, look to rich jewel tones. Emerald, navy, orange, and burgundy are perfect against a wintery or autumnal backdrop.

If you’re especially sensitive to the cold, add a faux fur wrap for a bit of extra warmth and a touch of elegance. Ensure you select something in a neutral tone to avoid any colour clashes with your dress.


Acler Palms Dress

The Acler Palms Dress is crafted from a luxurious pleated fabric. The pleating, bell sleeves, plunging neckline and asymmetrical hemline, creates a flattering silhouette. This style will keep you warm on the colder days of autumn, and is perfect for an outdoor event as the rusted orange colour perfectly matches the colours of the autumn season.

This style is available in colours turmeric, sky blue and pink.


Pasduchas Pinnacle Sleeve Midi Dress

The Pasduchas Pinnacle Sleeve Midi Dress is a modest, long sleeve mid-length dress that is suitable for occasions such as autumn garden parties or winery events. This dress is very comfortable which is all that you want for an event in the cooler seasons. This combat green is the perfect Autumn colour that perfectly complements the earthy tones of the cooler seasons.


Unreal Fur Yasmin Wrap Fur Stole

The UNREAL FUR Yasmin Wrap Fur Stole is a simple and elegant wrap that will complement any gown or dress. This wrap is comfortable, soft and provides extra warmth for any events during the cooler seasons. The faux fur stole features a hook closure for an effortless wear that sits beautifully on the shoulders.

The Yasmin Wrap Fur Stole is available in colours white and black.


For a Romantic Weekend Away

Whether you’re on a weekend-long getaway or you’re just heading out for a romantic lunch, a winery date is deserving of a special outfit. 

Summer and Spring

If you tend to gravitate towards casual outfitting, opt for a tiered midi dress in a subtle print. A floaty, sweeping silhouette delivers a feminine yet laid-back look that can be easily dressed up or down. Elevate the ensemble with mules, or keep things casual with nude sandals and a floppy woven hat. 

Feeling something bold? Go for a mini dress in a bright, head-turning hue. Saffron, hot pink, and bright yellow tones will create a statement contrast against the earthy landscape. We’re all about dresses that bring timeless shapes and modern accents together; envision puff sleeves dresses with cutout detailing, or backless dresses with pleated skirts.


Rebecca Vallance Catania Mini Dress

The Rebecca Vallance Catania Mini Dress is made from a linen blend and features a floral print, puff sleeves, side pockets and an open back. This mini dress is perfect for the spring/summer season as it is easy to wear and makes the perfect outdoor dress. Wear this number to a daytime event such as a winery, with heels to make it semi-formal or sandals to tone it down.


Zimmermann Aliane Ruffle Midi Dress

The Zimmermann Aliane Ruffle Midi Dress is crafted from linen and cotton. The dress features a self tie bow detail at the front and ruffled trimming alongside the shoulders, leading to a racerback with cut-out details. In the warm orange colour, this dress is perfect for a summer event. We love this linen fabric as it adds a sense of luxury, making it perfect for a winery event.


Autumn and Winter


As the temperature drops, consider heavyweight fabrics such as satin and velvet. These luxurious fabrics exude sophistication and will work well against the woody interiors often found in wineries.

Who said flowers were just for spring? We love dark-based floral print for autumn and winter, especially on long-sleeved dresses. Style with chic sock boots and throw a neutral-toned coat over your shoulders to complete the look.


Arcina Ori Aston Dress

The Arcina Ori Aston Dress is a gorgeous long sleeve dress that is perfect for events during the cooler seasons. Featuring a wrap around design with cut outs, this dress is extremely flattering and unique. The Aston Dress is made from a thick ribbed material that provides extra warmth and although it is considered a more casual style, it can be dressed up to be worn to more semi-formal events. We love this versatile dress, and it is definitely a staple for your winter events.


Bec + Bridge Dreamer Wrap Dress

The Bec + Bridge Dreamer Wrap Dress is a gorgeous satin wrap dress that features a flattering plunging neckline. This stunning style features a keyhole back opening and a side tie detail at the waist. An easy to wear style that suits all body types and skin tones. A perfect satin dress that can be elevated for more formal events or toned down for more casual events.
 


For a Group Wine Tasting

For winery trips with a big group of friends, the comfort and durability of your outfit is key (especially if there’s a party bus involved). 


Summer and Spring

Our favourite easy-wearing option during spring and summer is a dress with an element of loose fitting. This could mean a flowy skirt, blouson sleeves or button up style. These dresses require minimal effort and can be styled up or down with ease.

A flowy dress guarantees comfort, so it’s ideal if you’re planning on being out all day. Look to bright colours and floral print during spring and summer, and pair with mules and gold hoops.



By Nicola Gabriella One Shoulder Midi Dress

The By Nicola Gabriella One Shoulder Midi Dress is a beautiful linen dress. This one shoulder style featuring a flowy skirt is perfect for summer paired with a cute pair of sandals. This gorgeous dress is perfect for daytime events during the summer time and makes the perfect picnic dress for casual events. An easy to wear style which still has you looking put-together, what more could you want in a winery outfit?

This style is available in colours pink grapefruit and sunkissed orange.


Alemais Songbird Mini Dress

The Alemais Songbird Mini Dress is a gorgeous button up mini dress in a stunning floral print. This dress features balloon sleeves, accent lace detailing and an ivory cotton rope to cinch at the waist. This romantic style can be dressed up or down, which if made more casual paired with sandals or sneakers, is the perfect casual day time event wear dress. This comfortable style brings playful and flirty vibes which nails the group winery outfit brief.


Autumn and Winter


For group winery tastings during winter, go for a blazer-and-pants combo, or a relaxed fit dress that is comfortable and flowy.

A flowing, loose fit style allows for ease of movement throughout the day, which you’ll be thanking yourself for when climbing on and off that party bus. Best paired with heeled boots, an understated bag, and a slicked-back ponytail.

Rebecca Vallance Positano Kaftan

The Rebecca Vallance Positano Kaftan is a gorgeous relaxed fit dress. With long blouson sleeves, front button fastening, a tiered gathered skirt and a gold-toned tie to cinch in the waist, this dress is extremely flattering and comfortable. We love this maxi dress for all year round as it features a bold and colourful print. This dress is perfect for day time events.


Runaway The Label Calista Midi Dress

The Runaway The Label Calista Midi Dress is a gorgeous green dress that features a v-neckline, centre-front button detailing and long blouson sleeves. This autumn dress is lightweight, comfortable and provides a flattering fit. This style makes the perfect smart casual attire for the group winery events as it is comfortable yet still has you looking classy and put-together.



Wine and Dine in Style

With some outfit inspiration under your belt, you’re ready to start putting your look together.

Want to wear one of these designer pieces for a fraction of the price? Hire all of the beautiful items mentioned in this article with Dress For A Night. You’ll save on closet space and cash, plus you’re helping to reduce the environmental footprint of the fashion and textiles industry.

Have a question about our hiring policies? We’d love to hear from you!

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