A Complete Guide on What to Wear as a Wedding Guest
What Colors Not to Wear as a Wedding Guest
As a wedding guest, it's important to keep the event's dress code in mind when selecting an outfit. However, there are also some unwritten rules surrounding wedding attire, especially when it comes to color. Choosing the right color not only shows respect for the couple, but it also helps guests fit in with the tone of the event.
There are some colors that should be avoided at all costs – we’re looking at you, white – or any colors that may be associated with the bride or bridesmaids’ gowns. In general, it's best to keep things minimal and tasteful when deciding what color to wear for a wedding – colors that will complement the overall theme and palette of the wedding.
There are some colors that should be avoided at all costs – we’re looking at you, white – or any colors that may be associated with the bride or bridesmaids’ gowns. In general, it's best to keep things minimal and tasteful when deciding what color to wear for a wedding – colors that will complement the overall theme and palette of the wedding.
Can You Wear White to a Wedding?
“Okay, what about beige? It’s not actually white!”
It’s also best to keep your distance from pure white's cousins, such as cream, ivory, and beige – no matter how good you look in the dress, you’ll run the risk of poor etiquette.
“What if it’s a white dress with a pattern?”
When it comes to patterned dresses, avoid styles with a white base, especially if the pattern is also a lighter color. As long as the white is minimal, all-over patterns that include white are acceptable.
In all likelihood, a white cardigan isn't going to raise any eyebrows. But to keep it simple, opt for a different neutral if possible.
In all likelihood, a white cardigan isn't going to raise any eyebrows. But to keep it simple, opt for a different neutral if possible.
“Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding?”
As a wedding guest, it is always best to err on the side of caution when deciding what to wear. Generally, white shoes should not be worn to a wedding, as they are too close in color to the bride's dress. If it is a more casual wedding, brightly colored shoes may be acceptable or even encouraged.
Can You Wear Black to a Wedding?
For centuries, wearing black to a wedding was considered a major faux-pas. Traditionally, black has been associated with funerals, and so to wear it to a celebration of love and commitment was seen as inappropriate. Today, the rules are more relaxed – but it should still be avoided in many situations to maintain proper etiquette.
“Is it appropriate to wear black to a beach wedding?”
For this universally flattering shade, keeping things dress-code appropriate revolves around fabric and cut. For example, a black taffeta ballgown may not be the best choice for a beach wedding. You’ll want to choose a breathable fabric, such as cotton or linen, in a flowy silhouette.
“How about a black-and-white dress?”
We advise against wearing white to weddings, but a printed dress with a hint of white or ivory is definitely approved. A black-and-white dress is a classic choice, as long as the pattern isn’t too distracting.
Do You Have to Wear a Dress to a Wedding?
Wedding guest attire doesn't have to be limited to dresses alone. With the right touch of elegance and style, many other options provide a fashionable and sophisticated look. If you're looking to switch up your wedding guest wardrobe, why not consider a jumpsuit or tailored suit? For a bolder look, consider a skirt and top combination or perhaps a two-piece pant suit.
“Can You Wear Pants to a Wedding?”
When it comes to wedding attire, some people still think of traditional dresses and suits. But more and more couples are embracing a relaxed atmosphere at their wedding, which means that guests can opt for something more unique and comfortable. Many couples are encouraging their guests to choose pants as the appropriate attire for the occasion.
“Can You Wear a Skirt to a Wedding?”
When it comes to dressing for a wedding as a guest, skirts can be an excellent option! Not only are they comfortable and fashionable, but their versatility means can easily be dressed up or down on the occasion. Whether you opt for a maxi skirt, midi skirt, or mini skirt, there are literally endless possibilities for making a statement in a stylish and sophisticated way.
“Can You Wear a Jumpsuit to a Wedding?”
When it comes to wedding guest attire, a jumpsuit is an unexpected and fashionable choice. Not only are jumpsuits comfortable and stylish, but they also provide a modern alternative to traditional maxi dresses or evening gowns. They can be dressed up with jewelry and accessories for an elegant look, or kept simple for a more relaxed vibe.
How to Choose What Color to Wear as a Wedding Guest
When it comes to dressing as a wedding guest, color is an important factor to consider. Not only does the right hue of clothing ensure you look your best, but it also shows respect to the happy couple and their special day. By adhering to the dress code—which often includes subtle guidelines for colors—guests can make the couple feel appreciated for their hard work in planning the wedding. Furthermore, wearing the right shade of clothing can help you feel confident and look elegant, allowing you to enjoy the festivities even more.
“Choose Colors Based on the Season”
When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding guest outfit, the time of year can have a big impact on what color you wear. In addition to following the dress code, consider the season when picking out your wedding guest look.
For spring weddings, opt for light colors like pastels, whites, or light blues. This will help capture the feeling of the season and will keep you cool in warmer temperatures. For summer weddings, go bold with bright colors, like greens, oranges, and pinks. This will help reflect the energy of the season and can be dressed up with statement jewelry or other accessories.
For fall weddings, stick to darker colors like burgundy, navy blue, and forest green. Rich hues will look great with the changing leaves of the season, while still looking formal. You can add some texture to the look with velvet and sequins for a bit of sparkle.
Finally, for winter weddings, go for classic holiday colors like red and green. You can dress it up with a velvet or faux fur coat to keep warm and look stylish. A winter wedding is also a great opportunity to wear pants or a jumpsuit.
For spring weddings, opt for light colors like pastels, whites, or light blues. This will help capture the feeling of the season and will keep you cool in warmer temperatures. For summer weddings, go bold with bright colors, like greens, oranges, and pinks. This will help reflect the energy of the season and can be dressed up with statement jewelry or other accessories.
For fall weddings, stick to darker colors like burgundy, navy blue, and forest green. Rich hues will look great with the changing leaves of the season, while still looking formal. You can add some texture to the look with velvet and sequins for a bit of sparkle.
Finally, for winter weddings, go for classic holiday colors like red and green. You can dress it up with a velvet or faux fur coat to keep warm and look stylish. A winter wedding is also a great opportunity to wear pants or a jumpsuit.
“Choose Based on Location”
Choosing what color to wear as a wedding guest should be based on the venue of the wedding. The most important aspect is that your outfit should not compete with the wedding's overall look and feel. Additionally, you may also want to consider the season of the wedding; lighter colors are perfect for spring and summer ceremonies, while darker tones are better suited to fall and winter weddings.
When attending a destination wedding, it's important to wear colors that both complement the venue and show respect for the couple. Neutral shades are timeless options that won't detract from the wedding's formal atmosphere. For a more colorful look, consider wearing shades of blue, lavender, or pink to show that you're in the celebratory spirit. If the wedding is in a tropical destination, opt for colors like yellow, orange, and green. These vibrant hues will bring out the beauty of the location.
Garden weddings are a beautiful way to celebrate love, and choosing the right colors for your outfit as a guest can make the experience even more special. As a rule of thumb, pastels and light neutrals tend to look great in outdoor settings. A garden wedding is also a great setting to wear a skirt or wrap dress. For something more dramatic, bold jewel tones such as sapphire blue, emerald green, and ruby red make for a stunning look.
For a summer wedding, light, airy shades like pastels will help you look fresh and fashionable in the sunshine. From a soft baby blue to a minty green, there are many options for injecting a subtle pop of color into your look. For winter weddings, jewel tones are a great choice. Think bold colors like burgundy, navy blue, and forest green to turn heads but still maintain a formal feel.
When attending a destination wedding, it's important to wear colors that both complement the venue and show respect for the couple. Neutral shades are timeless options that won't detract from the wedding's formal atmosphere. For a more colorful look, consider wearing shades of blue, lavender, or pink to show that you're in the celebratory spirit. If the wedding is in a tropical destination, opt for colors like yellow, orange, and green. These vibrant hues will bring out the beauty of the location.
Garden weddings are a beautiful way to celebrate love, and choosing the right colors for your outfit as a guest can make the experience even more special. As a rule of thumb, pastels and light neutrals tend to look great in outdoor settings. A garden wedding is also a great setting to wear a skirt or wrap dress. For something more dramatic, bold jewel tones such as sapphire blue, emerald green, and ruby red make for a stunning look.
For a summer wedding, light, airy shades like pastels will help you look fresh and fashionable in the sunshine. From a soft baby blue to a minty green, there are many options for injecting a subtle pop of color into your look. For winter weddings, jewel tones are a great choice. Think bold colors like burgundy, navy blue, and forest green to turn heads but still maintain a formal feel.
“Choose Colors Based on Time of Day”
When selecting an outfit for a wedding, you should always consider the time of day in which the ceremony takes place. Picking the right color to wear as a wedding guest doesn’t have to be so overwhelming! With a few helpful tips, you can make sure that your outfit choice reflects the time of day and mood of the wedding.
When it comes to early afternoon weddings, the best colors to wear are light and spring-like shades. Think soft pastels and airy tones such as blues, pinks and yellows. For a more refined look, try pairing classic navy or grey with a brighter accent color like white, peach or light purple. To bring a bolder statement, go for brighter colors like magenta and coral.
If you're attending a wedding in the evening, there are certain colors that can help you look your best and make an impression. If you're looking for something classic and timeless, dark colors like navy blue or black are always appropriate. For a more glamorous look, pastels such as lavender, light pink, or pale blue will add a touch of elegance to your outfit. If you want something more daring, try pants or a jumpsuit in jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red.
When it comes to early afternoon weddings, the best colors to wear are light and spring-like shades. Think soft pastels and airy tones such as blues, pinks and yellows. For a more refined look, try pairing classic navy or grey with a brighter accent color like white, peach or light purple. To bring a bolder statement, go for brighter colors like magenta and coral.
If you're attending a wedding in the evening, there are certain colors that can help you look your best and make an impression. If you're looking for something classic and timeless, dark colors like navy blue or black are always appropriate. For a more glamorous look, pastels such as lavender, light pink, or pale blue will add a touch of elegance to your outfit. If you want something more daring, try pants or a jumpsuit in jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red.
Find Your Perfect Wedding Guest Attire at Mari Bella Bridal Galleria
When it comes to shopping for the perfect wedding guest dress, Mari Bella Weddings should be your first stop. From sweet shift dresses to chic midis and colorful maxis, we have a wide range of styles, fabrics, and silhouettes to choose from that will make you look and feel your best. So why wait? Head over to Mari Bella Weddings today and find the perfect dress for that special event.