Franklin Dean
Wearing white to a wedding is a tricky business. While some wedding traditions are changing, it seems that etiquette experts and the general public agree that an all-white ensemble is off-limits for wedding guests. This is because the bride will usually wear white, and her dress should be centre stage. However, there are some exceptions to the rule. If you're still set on wearing an ivory floral dress, there are some things to consider.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wearing an ivory floral dress to a wedding | Generally considered inappropriate as ivory is too close to white, the colour of the bride's dress |
| Exceptions | Bride and groom explicitly state that guests can wear white; bride is not wearing white; casual wedding; destination wedding |
| Alternatives | Large floral prints on a coloured background; floral prints with white mixed with other colours |
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What You'll Learn
It's best to avoid wearing ivory to a wedding
While some older women may be able to get away with wearing a simple white dress, it's still a risky move. If you're not sure, it's best to avoid it. As bridal stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz says, "if you have to ask if something looks too white, chances are, it probably is".
If you're set on wearing a white dress, there are some ways to make it less likely that you'll upstage the bride. Opting for a subtle pattern, a shorter hemline, or a simpler silhouette can help. Adding a colourful accessory, such as a belt or scarf, can also dilute the amount of white. However, it's important to remember that restraint is key. You don't want to look like you're trying too hard to stand out.
If you're still unsure, it's always a good idea to check with the couple. If you have a close relationship with them, it's appropriate to have a conversation about your outfit choice. They may not mind, or they may be able to suggest an alternative. Ultimately, the most important thing is to respect the couple and their wishes on their wedding day.
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Floral prints with a white base are a grey area
The key consideration is to ensure that the white base does not dominate the dress. Gabrielle Hurwitz of Gabrielle Hurwitz Bridal Styling suggests following a 75% colour to 25% white ratio. Similarly, another guideline is that if the white background is visible through more than a third of the dress, it will likely be perceived as having a lot of white. To avoid this, another colour should be dominant and make up about 70% to 80% of the dress.
The scale of the print can also be a deciding factor. Small floral prints should be avoided as they are commonly used in wedding dress designs. Larger patterns, on the other hand, clearly distinguish the wearer as a guest rather than the bride. It is also worth noting that certain colours, such as blush, can appear too bridal when paired with white.
When in doubt, it is advisable to consider the relationship with the couple and their preferences. If there is a close relationship with the bride, it is appropriate to have an open conversation about the outfit choice. Ultimately, the decision to wear a floral dress with a white base to a wedding is influenced by various factors, including the dress's specific characteristics, the wedding's formality, and the couple's individual preferences.
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The scale of the dress' print could be a deal-breaker
The scale of the dress print could be a deal-breaker when deciding whether to wear an ivory floral dress to a wedding. While floral dresses are trendy, many have a white background, which can be problematic for wedding guest attire.
Laine Palm of Laine Palm Event Planning & Design advises staying away from small floral prints, as many wedding dresses feature these patterns. Instead, opt for large patterns that clearly distinguish you as a guest. This ensures you don't risk being mistaken for the bride or bridal party, which could happen if your dress is too similar to theirs.
If you're unsure about your dress choice, consider your relationship with the couple. If you're close to the bride, it's appropriate to discuss your outfit choice with her directly. Think about the couple's preferences and the wedding's formality. The more formal the wedding, the more cautious you should be about wearing ivory or floral prints with white backgrounds.
To ensure your ivory floral dress is appropriate, consider the ratio of colours. Gabrielle Hurwitz of Gabrielle Hurwitz Bridal Styling suggests a 75% colour to 25% white ratio. Another guideline is to ensure that another colour is dominant and comprises about 70% to 80% of the dress.
Ultimately, the decision to wear an ivory floral dress to a wedding depends on various factors, including the couple's preferences, the wedding's formality, and the specific dress design. The key is to avoid upstaging the bride and ensure your attire is respectful and tasteful.
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The couple's preferences should be considered
Firstly, it is worth considering the couple's attitude towards wedding traditions. If they are traditionalists, it is best to avoid any outfit that could be deemed inappropriate, such as ivory or white. However, if the couple is more laid-back and non-traditional, they may be less concerned about this particular custom.
Secondly, the wedding dress code can provide valuable clues. If the couple has specifically stated that white or ivory is acceptable on their wedding website, invitation, or through direct communication, then it is generally fine to wear these colours. For example, some couples may request that their guests wear white to create a unique and striking visual effect.
Thirdly, the relationship between the guest and the couple matters. If the guest is close to the couple, it is appropriate to have an open conversation about the outfit choice. This direct communication can clarify the couple's preferences and ensure that the guest's attire aligns with their wishes.
Lastly, it is essential to use good judgment and consider the potential consequences. Wearing ivory or white to a wedding can be a sensitive issue, and it is important to respect the couple's wishes, even if they have not explicitly stated their preference. As a general rule of thumb, if there is any doubt about the appropriateness of the outfit, it is better to choose something else to avoid causing any potential upset or negative attention.
In conclusion, while there are no hard and fast rules, considering the couple's preferences is key. By assessing their attitude towards traditions, examining the dress code, and using good judgment, guests can make informed decisions about their attire and ensure that the focus remains on the couple during their special day.
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There are ways to wear white without upstaging the bride
While wearing white to a wedding has been a long-standing taboo, there are ways to wear the colour without upstaging the bride. Firstly, it's important to consider your relationship with the couple and the bride's personality. If you have a close relationship with the couple, it may be appropriate to have a conversation about your outfit choice.
If you decide to wear white, it's best to avoid full-length or floor-sweeping gowns, as these could be seen as too bridal and may steal the drama from the bride's full-length ensemble. Instead, opt for a knee-length or mid-length dress, or even a jumpsuit, to ensure your outfit doesn't resemble a wedding gown.
The fabric and silhouette of your outfit are also important factors to consider. Stay away from chiffon, lace, A-line skirts, and cinched waists, which are typically associated with bridal gowns. Instead, choose a dress with a distinctive shape and structure, such as asymmetrical lines and edging, to give your outfit a modern and individual look.
Another way to wear white without upstaging the bride is to pair it with another colour or pattern. Monochrome is a classic combination that will always look chic and elegant, while also ensuring you don't steal attention from the bride. Alternatively, you can add a pop of colour with accessories like a bright belt, earrings, or statement jewellery.
Finally, consider the scale of the print if you're opting for a patterned dress with a white background. A large pattern will make it obvious that you are a guest and not the bride. Aim for a 70-80% colour to 20-30% white ratio, and avoid small floral prints as these are commonly used for wedding dresses.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is generally considered poor etiquette to wear ivory to a wedding as it is a bridal colour. If you are unsure, consider how you would feel if a guest wore a similar outfit to your wedding.
It is generally advised to avoid wearing white, cream, ivory, beige, silver, champagne, blush and pale blue to a wedding.
Small floral prints are best avoided as a lot of wedding dresses feature these patterns. Large patterns are preferable, but it is best to avoid anything with a white or blush base.
