Rhiannon Hendricks
Chinese weddings can be elaborate or very informal, with guests wearing anything from jeans and t-shirts to suits and dresses. However, there are some cultural nuances to be aware of when deciding what to wear to a Chinese wedding dinner. Firstly, it is considered taboo for guests to wear red as this is traditionally the colour of the bride's dress, symbolising joy and prosperity. Similarly, guests should avoid wearing white as this colour is associated with mourning and death in Chinese culture. Instead, guests might opt for pastel or light colours such as baby pink or light yellow, or darker shades such as maroon or emerald green. It is also important to bring a gift of cash in a red envelope, avoiding amounts associated with the number four which is considered bad luck in Chinese culture.
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What You'll Learn
Avoid wearing red or white
When deciding what to wear to a Chinese wedding, it is important to consider the cultural significance of the colours you choose. Red symbolises joy and prosperity and is traditionally worn by brides, as well as the mothers of the newlyweds. It is considered taboo for guests to wear red as it may be seen as trying to steal the spotlight from the bride.
White is also to be avoided as it is associated with mourning and death in Chinese culture. While Western weddings often feature brides in white dresses, this colour is unacceptable at a Chinese wedding, as it is considered to symbolise death.
Black is another colour that should be avoided as it is also associated with mourning and death. However, black accessories and accents are considered acceptable.
Gold is another colour that is commonly used in Chinese weddings as it symbolises wealth and fortune. It is not uncommon for brides to wear a gold dress at some point during the wedding, and gold accessories are also popular.
If you are unsure about what colours to wear to a Chinese wedding, it is always best to ask someone close to the couple, such as a family member or a member of the wedding party.
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Wear gold accessories
Gold is a significant colour in Chinese wedding culture, as it symbolises fortune, power, and longevity. It is customary for the bride to wear gold accessories and jewellery, which are often given to her by the groom's family as part of the bride price. These gold accessories are traditionally betrothal gifts, symbolising that the bride is welcomed into the groom's family as a treasured member.
Gold accessories have been part of Chinese wedding culture since ancient times, although only royalty and dignitaries could afford them in the past. Today, it is common for the bride to wear 24-karat gold jewellery, engraved by hand. In some Chinese wedding customs, the groom's family presents the bride with "Dragon and Phoenix Bangles", which are stacked on the forearms and often displayed during the tea ceremony, where the outfit sleeves are shortened to showcase the jewellery.
As a guest at a Chinese wedding, wearing gold accessories is an elegant way to pay homage to the cultural significance of the colour. Gold jewellery or accessories can add a touch of luxury and opulence to your outfit. Consider pairing a sleek gold necklace or earrings with a dress in a complementary colour, such as pastel or light brown/nude shades, or darker shades like maroon or emerald green. If you prefer a more subtle approach, you can opt for delicate gold jewellery or accessories, such as a thin gold bracelet or earrings.
Additionally, gold accessories can be a thoughtful gift for the couple. Gifts of gold jewellery or accessories are considered lucky and are often presented in boxes, wrapping paper, or envelopes in red and gold colours. However, it is important to note that the purity of the gold is essential in Chinese wedding culture, and only 24-karat gold is considered "real" gold.
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Dress for the weather
When it comes to dressing for a Chinese wedding dinner, it's important to consider the weather conditions to ensure you're comfortable and stylish throughout the celebration. Here are some tips to guide you:
For colder weather:
- It's a good idea to bring a cardigan, shawl, or blazer to layer up, especially if the venue has strong air conditioning.
- A long-sleeved dress or top can provide extra warmth while still looking elegant.
- Opt for closed shoes instead of sandals or open-toed shoes to keep your feet warm.
- Consider wearing thicker fabrics that will provide insulation, such as a wool suit or a dress with a lining.
For warmer weather:
- Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or chiffon to stay cool and comfortable.
- Opt for loose-fitting or flowy silhouettes that will allow for better air circulation.
- Sandals or open-toed shoes can help keep your feet cool and comfortable.
- Consider a sleeveless or short-sleeved dress or top to beat the heat.
Regardless of the weather, always remember to dress respectfully and avoid wearing white, as it is typically reserved for the bride and is considered taboo for guests in Chinese wedding culture.
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Bring a jacket for cold banquet halls
When deciding what to wear to a Chinese wedding, it's important to consider the venue and the level of formality. While Chinese bridal attire has changed significantly over time, with some brides opting for white bridal gowns, red is a more traditional colour for the bride to wear. Similarly, while there is no set dress code for guests, it is generally advised to avoid wearing red to a Chinese wedding, as it is considered rude and an attempt to steal the spotlight from the bride.
Another thing to consider when dressing for a Chinese wedding is the temperature of the venue. Chinese banquet halls can often be quite cold due to air conditioning, so it is a good idea to bring a jacket or cardigan. This will not only keep you warm but also help you look sleek and put together.
In addition to the venue's temperature, the formality of the wedding can also influence your decision to bring a jacket. Generally, weddings are considered formal events, and guests are expected to dress accordingly. This includes wearing a suit jacket, especially if the wedding is taking place in a hall. However, more intimate weddings with a smaller group of close friends and family tend to be less formal, and a jacket may not be necessary.
Ultimately, it is essential to consider the comfort and appropriateness of your outfit. If you feel that a suit jacket is too uncomfortable for the weather or the dress code, you can consider alternative options such as a blazer or a cardigan. It is also worth noting that, traditionally, guests cannot remove their jackets until the host or groom does so. Therefore, if the host removes their jacket due to the heat, you will be relieved to have the option to do the same!
So, when attending a Chinese wedding, especially in a banquet hall, it is advisable to bring a jacket to layer up if needed. This will ensure you stay warm and comfortable while also adhering to the formal nature of wedding events.
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Wear something that represents you and your family
Chinese weddings can be elaborate or very informal, and the dress code can vary depending on the couple and their preferences. It is always best to ask the couple or organisers about the dress code and any traditions that will be followed, rather than assume and risk offending the family.
If you want to wear something that represents you, your husband, and your family, it is important to remember that this is a very important occasion, especially if you are a new member of the family. Your outfit is a chance to bring honour and respect to your family, so it should be carefully considered. It does not have to be expensive or showy, but it should reflect your class and taste.
As a guest, it is important to avoid wearing red, as this is traditionally the colour of the bride's dress and is considered auspicious and widely celebrated. It symbolises happiness, prosperity, and good fortune, so it is best to leave this colour to the bride. It is also best to avoid black and white, as these colours are associated with mourning and death in Chinese culture. Instead, you could wear pastel colours, light brown or nude colours, baby pink, light yellow, maroon, or emerald green. You could also wear pink, peach, or purple, as these colours symbolise new life and happiness, or orange, which is also considered acceptable.
If you want to incorporate traditional Chinese elements into your outfit, you could wear a Chinese-inspired mandarin collar top or a Qi-pao top with an A-line skirt. You could also add some eye-catching earrings, a sleek clutch, and heels to elevate your look. It is also worth noting that Chinese wedding dinners can be quite long, so you may want to bring a cardigan or shawl in case the air conditioning gets too cold.
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Frequently asked questions
Avoid wearing red as it is a very important colour in Chinese culture, symbolising happiness, joy and prosperity. It is also typically the colour worn by the bride. White and black clothing should also be avoided, as these colours are associated with mourning and death in Chinese culture.
Gold is another lucky colour in Chinese culture, symbolising wealth and fortune. Yellow and green are also considered acceptable colours to wear.
Female guests should wear a nice dress, heels and accessories. A blazer is also recommended as Chinese wedding dinners can get cold.
Male guests can wear a dress shirt and slacks, or a suit. A sport coat or tie can be added for a more formal look.
