Guest Wearing Same Color As Bridesmaids: Okay Or Not?

Choosing an outfit for a wedding can be challenging, especially when you want to avoid matching the bridal party. While wearing the same colour as the bridesmaids was once considered a fashion faux pas, opinions on this topic have evolved. Nowadays, it is generally considered acceptable for a guest to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids, as long as the outfit is not too similar in style. In fact, it can be difficult to know the wedding colours in advance, and bridesmaids' dresses are often in popular colours like navy or pink. However, some people still consider it odd for a guest to intentionally match the bridal party, so it may be best to choose a different colour or ask the couple about their preferences in advance.

Asking the couple about the bridal party's colours in advance

When reaching out to the couple or bridal party, it is essential to be polite and respectful in your inquiry. Express your excitement about the upcoming wedding and politely ask about the bridal party's colours. For example, you could say, "I'm so excited for your upcoming wedding! I wanted to check with you about the bridal party's colours to ensure that my outfit doesn't accidentally match too closely. Would you be able to let me know what colours the bridesmaids will be wearing?" This approach demonstrates your enthusiasm for the celebration while also addressing your concern about outfit coordination.

If you don't feel comfortable reaching out to the couple directly, you can explore other options. One idea is to contact a close friend or family member of the couple who may be involved in the wedding planning process. They might have insight into the bridal party's colours and can provide you with the information you need without involving the couple directly. This approach can be especially useful if you want to maintain some element of surprise for the couple on their wedding day.

Another strategy is to check the couple's wedding website, if they have one. Many couples choose to share their wedding colours, mood boards, or colour schemes on their wedding website to guide guests' outfit selections. This information can be incredibly helpful in ensuring that your outfit complements the bridal party's colours without being too similar. It also allows you to plan your attire in advance without needing to contact the couple directly.

In some cases, you might not be able to obtain the bridal party's colour information in advance. If this happens, don't worry! It is not considered a major faux pas for a guest to wear a similar colour to the bridesmaids. As long as your outfit is not identical to the bridal party's, it is generally acceptable. You can also add unique accessories or alterations to your ensemble to ensure you stand out from the bridal party.

Remember, the most important thing is to respect the couple's preferences and ensure that your inquiry is polite and considerate. By asking about the bridal party's colours in advance, you can make an informed decision about your outfit choice and feel confident on the day of the wedding.

Wearing a different style of dress to the bridesmaids

While wearing the same colour as the bridesmaids is generally considered acceptable, it is important to consider the style of your dress and how it differs from those of the bridesmaids.

If you are worried about blending in with the bridal party, there are several ways to ensure you don't look like a bridesmaid. One way is to choose a dress with a different silhouette or hemline. For example, if the bridesmaids are wearing floor-length gowns, you could opt for a midi or knee-length dress. Similarly, if their dresses are short and flowy, you might choose a more structured or form-fitting style.

Another way to differentiate yourself is through accessories. You can add a bold statement necklace, chandelier earrings, or a funky pair of shoes to your outfit. A leather bomber jacket or a faux fur stole can also help you stand out and add a touch of personality to your look.

It is also important to consider the formality of the wedding. If it is a formal or black-tie event, a midi-length pastel dress may not be appropriate. Instead, opt for something more sophisticated or elegant. On the other hand, a garden party wedding might be the perfect opportunity to wear that blush number you've been eyeing.

Finally, you can also alter your dress to make it more unique. Consider changing the hemline, neckline, or sleeves to create a modern or personalised silhouette. You can also add or remove embellishments, layers, or a waistline to flatter your figure and make the dress your own.

By following these tips, you can wear the same colour as the bridesmaids while still standing out and looking like a well-dressed guest.

Reusing a bridesmaid dress from a different wedding

It is generally considered acceptable to wear a dress that was previously worn as a bridesmaid's dress to another wedding as a guest. Lizzie Post, host of the podcast Awesome Etiquette from the Emily Post Institute, says that no guest should ever feel embarrassed if they happen to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids. However, if you are concerned about it, it is perfectly acceptable to ask in advance what the bridal party will be wearing.

If you are keen to reuse a bridesmaid's dress, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the style and formality of the dress in relation to the wedding you will be attending. Awesome Etiquette host Lizzie Post recommends ensuring that the dress fits the formality of the wedding. For example, a flowy, silky gown may not be the best choice for a backyard barbecue wedding.

To make your dress feel more like your own, Claudia Hanlin, owner of Wedding Library, suggests accessorising with unique pieces, such as a chunky necklace, a funky pair of shoes, or a leather bomber jacket, as long as it stays within the dress code of the wedding.

If you are looking to make more significant changes to your bridesmaid's dress, there are several options for repurposing it. You can alter the dress by removing fabric, shortening or removing sleeves, raising the hem, or making other major alterations to fit the style and formality of the wedding. You can also change the colour or add accessories to make it more or less fancy. For example, adding a jean jacket to a rustic outdoor wedding or a rhinestone belt to dress it up.

If you are feeling creative, you can even upcycle the fabric into something new, such as purses, pillows, doll clothing, or quilts.

So, if you have a bridesmaid's dress that you love and want to wear again, don't be afraid to repurpose it and give it a new life! Just remember to consider the formality and style of the wedding you will be attending and add your unique touch to it.

Accessorising to differentiate your look from the bridal party

While it is not considered rude to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids to a wedding, you may want to accessorise your outfit to differentiate your look from the bridal party. Here are some tips to help you accessorise:

Start with Jewellery

Jewellery can be a great way to elevate your outfit and make it unique. If you are wearing a v-neck or a low-neck garment, consider a necklace that sits a few inches above the neckline to lengthen your neck. For higher necklines, longer necklaces can be used to achieve the same effect. If you want to make more of a statement, try a choker, which may give the impression of a rounder face. Drop earrings can also be a great addition to your outfit, especially if you plan on wearing your hair down. If you are wearing your hair up, opt for simple studs that complement your style. Rings are also a great way to accessorise, with multiple rings on different fingers being very trendy at the moment.

Belts and Scarves

These accessories can be used to add a touch of finishing to your outfit. For example, a belt can be added over a maxi dress or an oversized jumper to create a waist-cinching effect. A scarf can also add colour and patterns to your outfit while protecting your hair texture.

Bags

Bags are an essential accessory that can also elevate your outfit. For a wedding, you may want to opt for a small over-the-shoulder bag that matches your outfit and fits your phone, cards, keys, and other essentials.

Shoes

Shoes can transform your outfit and make it more formal or casual. For a more elevated look, consider a pair of platform sneakers or ankle boots, which can be paired with jeans, a midi skirt, or a midi dress. Pointed-toe shoes, with or without a heel, can also add a touch of sexiness to more casual bottoms such as flared jeans.

Hats and Headscarves

Hats and headscarves can be a fun way to accessorise, adding elegance or edge to your outfit. A headscarf can also be a great way to protect your hair texture while adding colour and patterns.

Asking the couple about their wedding colours to avoid matching

Asking the couple about their wedding colours ahead of time is a great way to avoid accidentally matching the bridal party. While it is generally agreed that it is not a big issue if a guest happens to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids, it is still something that can be avoided with a little forward planning.

Lizzie Post, host of the podcast Awesome Etiquette from the Emily Post Institute, says that no guest should ever feel embarrassed if they wear the same colour as the bridal party. However, she also notes that it is perfectly acceptable for a guest to ask the couple in advance what colours the bridal party will be wearing to avoid any accidental matching. Post suggests that couples post their bridal party colours on their wedding website, so guests can be aware of what colours to avoid. This is a simple and effective way to ensure guests can choose their outfits confidently.

If you are unable to find the information on the couple's wedding website, it is also acceptable to ask the couple directly. This can be done in a casual way, for example, by asking about the wedding colours in conversation. Alternatively, you could ask a member of the bridal party, such as one of the bridesmaids, who is likely to know the colour scheme.

If you are unable to find out the wedding colours in advance, it is generally fine to wear the same colour as the bridal party, especially if it is a popular colour. For example, black is a common colour for bridesmaids' dresses, and it would be challenging to ban all guests from wearing black. Similarly, if the bridal party is wearing a specific shade of a colour, such as emerald green, it is unlikely that a guest will be wearing the exact same shade.

In conclusion, while it is not a major issue if a guest happens to wear the same colour as the bridal party, it is understandable that guests may want to avoid this. By asking the couple about their wedding colours in advance, either directly or by checking their wedding website, guests can feel confident that they will not accidentally match the bridal party.

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