Junior Rasmussen
Wedding season is upon us, and if you're staring at your wardrobe in despair, unsure of what to wear, you're not alone. From grand traditional weddings to bohemian festival-style celebrations, the setting and dress code can vary widely. The key to being the best-dressed wedding guest is to understand the dress code, align your outfit with the venue and season, and add your unique style. Whether it's a countryside barn wedding, a city ceremony, or a beach wedding, with some planning and savvy shopping, you can look fabulous without upstaging the bride.
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What You'll Learn
Always check the invitation for a dress code and venue details
When you receive a wedding invitation, it's essential to check for any dress code and venue details. This information is usually included on the invitation itself, on a separate insert, or on the wedding website. Sometimes, it may even be mentioned on the RSVP cards or the wedding invitation details card.
The dress code can vary from formal, semi-formal, dressy casual, or casual, and it's important to follow it to ensure you're appropriately dressed for the occasion. For example, a formal or black-tie dress code calls for elegant and refined outfits, such as ball gowns, tuxedos, or cocktail dresses. On the other hand, a casual dress code allows guests to wear whatever style they feel comfortable in.
Additionally, consider the venue and cultural traditions. If the wedding is held in a religious setting, such as a church, opt for modest and elegant outfits. Soft neutrals, pastel hues, and jewel tones are excellent choices, but avoid anything too revealing or casual. For outdoor weddings, like beach or garden weddings, light fabrics and flowy dresses are perfect.
Pay attention to the time of year and temperature as well. Choose thicker fabrics like velvet for fall and winter, and lighter fabrics like cotton and satin for spring and summer. Also, be mindful of colours that may photograph as white, such as very light blues or pale yellows. It's generally best to avoid wearing white unless specifically requested by the couple.
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Avoid wearing white or colours that are too light
When it comes to wedding guest attire, it's important to remember that the bride's preferences take precedence. While some brides may not mind guests wearing white, it's generally considered a fashion faux pas and may even be seen as an attempt to steal attention from the bride. To avoid any potential misunderstandings or discomfort, it's best to steer clear of white and choose other colours that complement the wedding theme.
White has long been associated with bridal attire, dating back to Queen Victoria's wedding in 1840. As such, wearing white as a guest can be seen as encroaching on the bride's territory. It's not just solid white dresses that are off-limits; cream, ivory, beige, and other light hues that can be mistaken for white in photos are also best avoided. These colours may include silver, champagne, blush, pale blue, and light yellow.
When in doubt, opt for colours that are distinctly different from white and its variations. Rich jewel tones like emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire blue are elegant choices for winter weddings. For spring and summer nuptials, softer pastel hues like mint green, peach, and periwinkle can be both stylish and seasonally appropriate. If you're attending a beach wedding, lean into breezy fabrics and cheerful colours that complement the seaside setting.
While it's essential to be mindful of the bride's preferences, it's also worth noting that wedding attire traditions are evolving. Some modern brides may be open to their guests wearing white, especially if it's a non-traditional wedding or if they specifically request it. If you're unsure about what colours are appropriate, refer to the wedding invitation or website for guidance, or consider reaching out to the bridal party for clarification.
Ultimately, the goal is to strike a balance between looking your best and respecting the bride's wishes. By choosing colours that complement the wedding theme and avoiding shades that are too close to white, you can ensure that all eyes remain on the bride while still standing out as a well-dressed guest.
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Dress according to the wedding's location and theme
When it comes to wedding guest attire, the location and theme of the wedding are key factors to consider. The dress code may range from formal to casual, with variations in between, and the venue and setting will play a significant role in determining the appropriate attire.
For instance, a church wedding usually calls for classic elegance and modesty. Opt for structured midi dresses, tailored suits, or knee-length dresses with jackets. Soft, neutral tones, pastel hues, and jewel tones for winter are excellent choices. On the other hand, a civil ceremony or a wedding in a non-religious venue offers more flexibility in your outfit choices.
If you're attending a destination wedding, the location can significantly influence your attire. A tropical wedding may call for tropical dresses, sandals or wedges, and a sunhat. Linen shirts and pants are also suitable, but be cautious as linen wrinkles easily. A mountain wedding is an opportunity to embrace a semi-formal or dressy-casual look with flowy silhouettes, earthy tones, and on-theme accessories like cowboy hats or boots.
The time of day and season should also be considered. For spring and summer weddings, opt for lighter fabrics like cotton and satin, and embrace seasonal colours and prints, such as bold citrus hues and florals. For fall and winter weddings, thicker fabrics like velvet will keep you warm and stylish.
Additionally, be mindful of any cultural customs. For example, at a traditional Indian wedding, women may be requested to wear saris, so it's essential to research and dress respectfully.
Ultimately, understanding the dress code will boost your confidence and ensure you feel comfortable and appropriate for the wedding.
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Renting an outfit can be budget-friendly and sustainable
Renting an outfit is a budget-friendly and sustainable option for wedding guests. Wedding attire can be expensive, and the cost of buying a new dress for each wedding can add up quickly. Renting is a great way to save money and access designer pieces at a fraction of the retail price. For example, Rent the Runway offers an on-trend LBD by Rabanne, which retails for $1,500, but can be rented for just $35 for four days. This makes couture pieces more accessible without the commitment of a one-time wear.
Renting is also a sustainable solution to the issue of single-wear outfits. It reduces waste and allows you to experiment with different styles and designers without the guilt of buying something new. Many rental companies offer a range of on-trend, party-ready pieces for wedding guests, including dresses, jumpsuits, and separates. Subscription-based rental services, such as Nuuly, provide access to clothing items from brands like Anthropologie, Free People, and Urban Outfitters for a flat monthly rate, with the option to buy or return items.
In addition to clothing, you can also rent accessories to complete your wedding guest look. Hats, headpieces, handbags, and jewellery are all available for hire. For instance, The Hat Club and Rent a Hat offer a range of fascinators, headbands, and formal hats, while designer rental services like Cocoon and HURR stock high-end handbags from Chanel, Gucci, and Prada. Fine jewellery rentals from Lendable and Rocks & Co. allow you to accessorise with stunning pieces without the designer price tag.
When renting an outfit, it's important to consider the wedding venue, time of day, cultural traditions, and dress code. For a church wedding, modest and elegant attire is typically recommended, while a civil ceremony allows for more flexibility. Aligning your outfit with the season is also key for comfort and fitting in with the wedding party. By renting an outfit, you can achieve a coordinated and stylish look for any wedding while being budget-conscious and environmentally conscious.
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Wear seasonally-appropriate colours and fabrics
Wearing seasonally appropriate colours and fabrics is a great way to ensure you're comfortable and confident at a wedding. If you're attending a spring or summer wedding, opt for lighter fabrics such as cotton and satin. Floral prints are perfect for this time of year, with vibrant and bold colours like citrus hues making a statement. For a more minimal look, a classic draped jersey gown or a simple chocolate brown maxi dress are elegant choices.
For autumn and winter weddings, thicker fabrics like velvet will keep you warm and stylish. Jewel tones are a sophisticated choice for the colder months. If you're attending a formal winter wedding, it's the perfect opportunity to go all out with a long, dressy gown.
The venue and setting of the wedding can also guide your choice of colours and fabrics. For example, a countryside barn wedding or a beach wedding might call for a more relaxed, flowy dress, perhaps with a floral print. On the other hand, a chic city ceremony or a church wedding may require a more structured midi dress or a tailored suit.
It's important to always check the invitation for any specified dress codes, such as "formal", "cocktail", or "black tie", and to be mindful of any cultural traditions involved. If in doubt, you can also ask the couple or a member of the bridal party for guidance.
Lastly, while choosing seasonally appropriate colours, it's best to avoid colours that are too close to white, as these may clash with the bride's outfit or the bridal party's colour scheme.
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Frequently asked questions
First, always check the invitation for the dress code and any cultural traditions involved. If there is no dress code, consider the venue and time of day. Avoid wearing white, off-white, or colours that are too similar to the wedding colour scheme. Align your outfit with the season and temperature.
For formal weddings, it's your moment to go all out. You can't go wrong with a long dress or a formal jumpsuit.
Stick to the black-tie dress code and opt for a long dress or a dressy cocktail dress.
Church weddings often call for classic elegance and modesty. A structured midi dress, a tailored suit, or a knee-length dress with a jacket are good options. It's also a good idea to bring a shawl or light jacket to cover your shoulders if needed.
You can rent outfits, hats, handbags, and jewellery to create a fully coordinated look without breaking the bank.
