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Wearing white to a wedding has been a controversial topic for over a century, with many people believing that the colour is reserved for the bride alone. However, this age-old question is not always black and white. While some believe that wearing white as a guest is a faux pas, others argue that it is acceptable as long as it is not a bridal-style dress and the couple has not specifically requested that guests avoid the colour. Experts agree that guests should generally avoid wearing white dresses, especially long or lacy dresses that could be perceived as bridal. However, some stylists suggest that wearing a dress with a white print or a small amount of white is probably fine, as long as it doesn't resemble a wedding dress. Ultimately, it is essential to use your best judgment and consider the couple's preferences and the context of the wedding.
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What You'll Learn
If the couple requests it
It is generally frowned upon to wear white to a wedding that is not your own. The tradition of the white wedding dress began with Queen Victoria's marriage to Prince Albert in 1840, and since then, the colour has been reserved for the bride alone. However, there are exceptions to this rule.
If the couple explicitly requests it, it is acceptable to wear white to their wedding. Some couples opt for an all-white dress code, in which case, guests should wear solid white styles rather than white floral prints, as the latter is more likely to be worn by the bride. If you are unsure about the dress code, you can refer to the invitation and wedding website, which may offer suggestions for what guests should wear.
If you are close to the couple, it is appropriate to have a conversation about your outfit choice. However, if you are not comfortable doing so, it is best to skip the dress in question. Ultimately, the decision to wear white to a wedding depends on the couple's preferences and the level of sensitivity around this tradition.
When considering a dress with a white print or base, bridal stylists recommend a visual ratio of 75% colour to 25% white. Even so, it is best to avoid colours that can appear white in photos, such as silver, champagne, blush, and pale blue. If you are questioning your dress choice, it is probably best to choose another outfit.
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If it's a destination wedding
Wearing white to a wedding has been frowned upon for over a century, with the colour traditionally reserved for the bride alone. However, this tradition is not as strict as it once was, and some brides are happy to invite their guests to wear white.
If you are attending a destination wedding, it is likely to be a relaxed beach setting, where light-coloured clothing, including white, is commonly encouraged. In this case, it is probably fine to wear a dress with white in it, as long as it does not look too bridal. A good rule of thumb is to consider the ratio of colour to white on the dress. If it is mostly white, it is best avoided. Large patterns that clearly mark you out as a guest are approved, but small floral prints, lace, and blush colours that could look bridal should be skipped.
If you are still unsure, it is best to avoid the dress in question. You could also ask the couple or a bridesmaid if you are unable to get in touch with the bride directly. It is important to consider the type of wedding and the couple's preferences. If they are likely to be more traditional, it is better to be cautious and avoid white. However, if they are more relaxed and modern, there may be more flexibility. Ultimately, it is up to the individual bride, and some are more sensitive about their guests wearing white than others.
It is also worth noting that the colour of your dress is not the only factor to consider. The style and length are also important. A knee-length dress with white elements is generally fine, whereas a floor-length or full-skirted white dress is not. You should also avoid anything that looks like a wedding dress, such as lace and tulle fabrics.
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If it's not a solid white dress
While wearing a dress with white in it to a wedding may be acceptable in certain circumstances, it is generally advised to avoid any attire that could be perceived as upstaging the bride or groom. The tradition of reserving the colour white for the bride dates back to Queen Victoria's wedding in 1840, and it is still considered a breach of etiquette for guests to wear this colour without the couple's explicit consent.
If you are considering wearing a dress with white in it to a wedding, it is essential to use your best judgement and carefully evaluate the dress's design and colour proportions. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that the dress is predominantly another colour, such as blue or pink, with white accents or a white base. This way, you can avoid resembling a bridal gown and potentially causing offence.
It is worth noting that certain colours, like pale pink or butter yellow, can appear too similar to cream when photographed, so it may be wise to avoid these hues as well. If you are unsure about the appropriateness of your dress, it is always better to choose an alternative option to respect the couple's wishes and avoid any potential misunderstandings.
In some cases, the couple may specifically request that their guests wear white, which is becoming an increasingly popular trend, especially for destination weddings. In such instances, it is usually mentioned in the invitation, on the wedding website, or communicated directly. However, even in these cases, it is important to maintain a guest-appropriate silhouette, opting for breezy and casual styles rather than anything overly formal or bridal-inspired.
Ultimately, the decision to wear a dress with white in it to a wedding depends on your relationship with the couple, the nature of the wedding, and your own comfort level. If you are close to the couple, it is appropriate to have an open conversation about your outfit choice. However, if you are not comfortable doing so, it may be best to choose a different dress to avoid any potential issues.
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If the print is large
Wearing white to a wedding when you're not the bride is generally frowned upon, as it is traditionally the bride's colour. However, there are some circumstances in which it may be acceptable to wear a dress with white in the print. If the print is large, it is more obvious that you are a guest and not the bride. This is especially true if the print is on a coloured background, and the amount of white is minimal.
Large prints that make it clear you are a guest are approved, but it is important to avoid anything that could be considered bridal, such as white and blush colours. It is also important to consider the silhouette of the dress, as some styles may be more suitable for brides than guests. If the dress has a similar silhouette to a wedding dress, it may be best to choose something else, even if the print is large.
The relationship with the couple can also be a factor in deciding whether to wear a dress with white in the print. If you are close to the couple, it may be appropriate to have a conversation about your outfit choice. However, if you are not comfortable doing so, it is best to choose a different dress. Ultimately, it is up to the individual bride how sensitive she is about guests wearing white, and it is important to be thoughtful and respectful when making your decision.
If you are still unsure, it may be safest to find an alternative dress. There are many other colours and styles that can be worn to a wedding, and it is important to avoid any potential faux pas. It is also worth considering the lighting conditions and the wedding theme, as certain colours may be more suitable than others.
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If it's not bridal-inspired
Wearing white to a wedding when you're not the bride has been frowned upon for over a century. However, there are some circumstances in which it may be acceptable. If the couple has specifically requested that guests wear white, it is usually mentioned on the invitation or wedding website. In this case, it is acceptable to wear white, but it is best to opt for a casual silhouette rather than anything formal or bridal-inspired.
If the couple has not requested white attire, it is generally advised to avoid wearing white to a wedding. This includes not only solid white dresses but also dresses with a lot of white in the print. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that the ratio of colour to white is at least 75% to 25%. Small floral prints, for example, are best avoided as they can be similar to bridal gown patterns. Larger patterns that clearly distinguish you as a guest are preferable.
If you are unsure about whether your dress is suitable, it is best to choose an alternative. You can also consider covering up the white with a solid-colour shrug or wrap. If you have a close relationship with the couple, you can also ask them directly about your outfit choice. Ultimately, it is up to the individual bride how sensitive she is about guests wearing white, so consider your relationship with the couple and use your best judgement.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the dress. If it has a white base with another colour as the pattern, it's best to stick to a ratio of 75% colour to 25% white. If you're questioning it, it's probably best to wear something else.
Large patterns that clearly distinguish you as a guest are approved. However, it's best to stay away from anything white and blush, which could be too bridal.
This is the only time wearing white is completely acceptable. If they have requested it, it will be mentioned in the invitation, on the wedding website, or through direct communication.
It's best to avoid these colours, especially if the dress is long, lacy, or bridal in any way.
If you have a close relationship with the couple, it's appropriate to have a conversation about your outfit choice. If you're not close to them, skip the dress in question.
