George Boyle
Wearing ivory as a wedding guest is considered by many to be inappropriate and a breach of traditional etiquette. However, some modern brides are choosing to forgo this tradition and are asking their guests to wear white or ivory. If you are considering wearing ivory to a wedding, it is best to consider your relationship with the couple and use your best judgement. It is also important to ensure that your outfit does not upstage the bride or resemble a wedding dress. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what to wear, but it is essential to be mindful of the couple's preferences and traditional etiquette.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wedding guest wearing ivory dress | Poor etiquette, inappropriate, passive-aggressive, attention-seeking, may upset the bride |
| May be acceptable if the bride doesn't wear ivory, or if instructed by the bride | |
| More acceptable if not a long dress, or if it has colourful accessories | |
| Wedding guest wearing white shoes | May be acceptable depending on the wedding, the guest's relationship with the couple, and the rest of the guest's outfit |
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What You'll Learn
It's poor etiquette to wear ivory to a wedding
It is considered poor etiquette to wear ivory to a wedding as ivory is a bridal colour. Wearing ivory as a guest may be seen as an attempt to upstage the bride and take attention away from her. However, some people argue that wearing ivory is acceptable as long as the outfit is not a wedding dress, and that no one will mistake a guest for the bride.
Wearing ivory to a wedding may be seen as a breach of traditional wedding etiquette. It is commonly considered rude and inappropriate for anyone other than the bride to wear ivory or white to a wedding. This is because ivory and white are traditionally seen as bridal colours, and wearing them could be interpreted as an attempt to upstage the bride or take attention away from her.
While opinions may vary, it is generally agreed upon that wearing a long ivory or white gown to a wedding is not appropriate. However, some people argue that wearing a short ivory or white dress, or an outfit with ivory or white elements, is acceptable. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what to wear, but it is important to be mindful of the bride's feelings and the traditional wedding etiquette.
Some people may not be aware that wearing ivory to a wedding is considered poor etiquette. It is possible that a guest may unintentionally wear an ivory dress, especially if they are young or inexperienced with wedding traditions. In such cases, it is important for the guest to be respectful and understanding if their outfit causes any discomfort or concern for the bride or other guests.
While the tradition of not wearing ivory or white to a wedding is still widely observed, some brides may be more relaxed about it. Some brides may not mind if guests wear ivory or white, especially if it is a short dress or an outfit with ivory or white elements. Ultimately, the decision of what to wear should consider the bride's preferences and the specific wedding's dress code.
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Brides won't confuse guests for brides
It is generally agreed that it is poor etiquette for a guest to wear white or ivory to a wedding. This is because, traditionally, white is reserved for the bride only. However, some modern exceptions exist, and it is ultimately up to the bride whether they are happy for their guests to wear these colours.
While it is unlikely that guests wearing ivory will be mistaken for the bride, it is still generally frowned upon. One source suggests that, while no one will confuse the bride for a guest, white and ivory are off-limits regardless of the colour the bride is wearing. Another source states that, while no one will mistake a guest for the bride, wearing ivory as a guest is still inappropriate and desperate.
Some brides may not mind if their guests wear white or ivory. One bride commented that she would be thrilled to see someone in a nice, tasteful white dress. Another bride shared that she had asked her guests to wear black and/or white. However, it is important to consider the bride's feelings and the potential for causing upset. One source suggests that, even if it is not your intention, wearing white or ivory may give the impression that you are attempting to look bridal, and this could upset the bride.
To avoid any potential issues, it is generally recommended that wedding guests avoid wearing white, ivory, or cream. If in doubt, it is best to choose a different colour or seek clarification from the bride.
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Guests will silently judge those who wear ivory
It is generally considered to be in poor taste for a guest to wear a dress that is white, ivory, or cream-coloured to a wedding. While it is unlikely that a guest will be mistaken for the bride, wearing these colours may be seen as an attempt to upstage the bride and garner attention. Guests who wear ivory to a wedding will likely be silently judged by other guests, who may feel sorry for the bride.
The tradition of the white wedding dress began when Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in 1840. After photographs of the wedding were widely published, brides began copying Victoria's style by wearing white gowns to their own weddings. Since then, it has been considered taboo for a guest to wear white to a wedding. However, some modern exceptions exist, and it is ultimately up to the couple getting married to decide what they are comfortable with. For example, a bride who is not wearing white may request that her guests wear white, which can be a fun way to flip tradition on its head and create striking photos.
If you are a guest at a wedding and are unsure about whether it is appropriate to wear ivory, it is best to err on the side of caution and choose a different colour. Bright colours are generally considered to be fine, as long as they are not neon. If you are close to the bride and groom, you can also ask them directly if they are comfortable with you wearing ivory.
It is worth noting that the colour of the dress is not the only factor that determines whether it is appropriate for a wedding. The style of the dress also plays a role. A long, lacy ivory dress may be seen as more inappropriate than a short ivory dress or an ivory dress with colourful accessories. Ultimately, it is important to be thoughtful and considerate when choosing an outfit for someone else's wedding.
While the focus is usually on the bride's dress, it is also worth considering the impact of an ivory suit. While it may be less likely to be seen as a direct attempt to upstage the bride, it can still be considered odd or inappropriate, especially if it is an ivory suit with ivory accessories.
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Ivory is off-limits unless instructed by the bride
When it comes to wedding attire, there are certain unspoken rules that guests are expected to follow. One of the most well-known and long-standing traditions is that guests should not wear white or ivory to a wedding. This is because the bride typically wears a white or ivory dress, and it is considered poor etiquette for a guest to attempt to stand out or upstage the bride in any way.
While some modern brides may be more flexible and open to their guests wearing white or ivory, it is generally advised to avoid these colours unless specifically instructed by the bride. It is important to respect the bride's wishes and avoid any potential misunderstandings or hurt feelings. Even if the bride is wearing a different colour, ivory and white are often considered off-limits for guests, as they are traditionally associated with the bride.
Additionally, it is essential to consider the potential reactions of other guests. Wearing ivory or white as a guest may lead to raised eyebrows and silent judgement from other attendees, who may perceive it as a breach of wedding etiquette. It is worth noting that some people may not mind, especially if it is a relative or an older guest wearing a favourite dress. However, it is generally safer to avoid these colours to respect the bride's wishes and avoid any potential negative reactions.
In conclusion, while there may be exceptions, it is generally advisable to refrain from wearing ivory or white as a guest at a wedding unless specifically instructed by the bride. It is important to be mindful of the traditions and etiquette surrounding wedding attire to ensure that the focus remains on the happy couple and their special day.
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Wearing ivory can upstage the bride
Wearing ivory as a wedding guest is generally considered to be in poor taste and a breach of traditional wedding etiquette. The traditional etiquette—that white is for the bride only—still applies, although some modern exceptions exist. The bride may wear white, ivory, or champagne, but it's her colour for the day. You don't want to be mistaken for the bride or appear to be trying to look bridal. Even if that wasn't your intention, that's what people (and possibly the bride) will think, and you don't want to be 'that' person.
It's important to consider the couple's feelings and the message your outfit sends. As a wedding guest, you don't want to offend the bride or wear anything that might make you stand out in the wrong way. The couple invited you to enjoy yourself and celebrate their big day, not to spend the day worrying that you made the wrong fashion choice. Even if you don't think you'll be mistaken for the bride, you may still attract negative attention and judgement from other guests.
If you're an ordinary guest, the photographer should try to keep you out of focus in photos for being an attention seeker. However, if you're the groom's mother, for example, it becomes a lot trickier to avoid. If you're close to the couple, you could ask them if they're happy for you to wear ivory. Some brides won't care, and they might give you the go-ahead.
If you're unsure, it's best to play it safe and stick to colours or prints. If you have to question it, it may be safest to find an alternative. Ultimately, be thoughtful about who and how you're celebrating.
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Frequently asked questions
Traditionally, it is considered poor etiquette for a guest to wear a white or ivory dress to a wedding. However, some modern brides are choosing to flip this tradition and request that their guests wear white.
It is still generally considered inappropriate for a guest to wear ivory to a wedding, even if the bride is wearing a different colour.
It is generally agreed that a guest should not wear anything that could be mistaken for a wedding dress. However, some people feel that a non-wedding dress in ivory is acceptable.
It is best to check with the bride and groom. It is their day, and you don't want to offend them or be remembered as "'that' person".
Ivory shoes are acceptable for some weddings but not for others. If in doubt, it is best to leave the ivory shoes at home.
