Franklin Dean
Choosing what to wear to a wedding can be a nerve-wracking experience. The general rule is to avoid wearing anything that could be considered too casual, distracting, or disrespectful. One of the most important rules for wedding guests is to avoid wearing white, cream, ivory, or any other colors that could be mistaken for the bride's dress. Other colors to avoid include denim, glitter, and red. It is also important to consider the formality, location, and seasonal weather when choosing a dress for a wedding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Color | Avoid wearing white, ivory, off-white, cream, or any other shade of white |
| Avoid wearing black, especially to an evening wedding | |
| Avoid wearing red | |
| Avoid wearing ultra-pale pastels, such as baby blue, cotton candy pink, and butter yellow | |
| Avoid wearing light silver or pale gray, especially outside in the sun | |
| Avoid wearing denim | |
| Avoid wearing glitter or sparkles | |
| Avoid wearing sequins | |
| Avoid wearing anything too casual, such as jeans | |
| Avoid wearing anything with a lot of exposed skin, such as crop tops, dresses with mesh sides, short skirts, plunging necklines, or form-fitting gowns | |
| Avoid wearing anything that is too similar to the bridal party's outfits | |
| Avoid wearing anything that is too attention-grabbing or that could outshine the couple |
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What You'll Learn
Avoid white, ivory, off-white, and cream
When it comes to wedding attire, there are a few colours that are considered taboo for guests. Wearing white, ivory, off-white, or cream as a wedding guest is generally considered a major fashion faux pas. This is because these colours are traditionally associated with the bride's dress, and wearing them could be seen as an attempt to upstage the happy couple on their special day.
While it may seem obvious, this style tip is often forgotten or ignored. It's important to remember that even if you don't intend to wear a traditional white wedding gown, any outfit in these colours can be misinterpreted as bridal. This includes ivory, which is a warm, slightly off-white colour with subtle undertones of yellow or cream, and off-white, which can also be referred to as eggshell. These shades are often chosen by brides for their softness and flattering hue, and their ability to complement a wider range of skin tones.
Even shades that are not quite white, such as champagne, beige, or super light colours, can be mistaken for white, especially in certain lighting or when photographed. Pale pastels like baby blue, cotton candy pink, and butter yellow can also be problematic, as they may appear almost white in photos. It's best to avoid these colours unless you know the couple has requested an all-white dress code for their wedding.
In addition to the colours already mentioned, there are a few other shades that you may want to avoid as a wedding guest. Denim and glitter, for example, are often considered too casual or distracting for a wedding. The key is to remember that a wedding is about celebrating the couple and their new life chapter, not making a fashion statement that could be seen as attention-seeking.
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Don't wear black to an evening wedding
When it comes to wedding attire, there are a few colours that are generally considered taboo for guests, with white being the most well-known shade to avoid. This is because the bride should be the centre of attention on her special day, and no guest wants to risk being mistaken for the bride, a bridesmaid, or someone who has stumbled into the wrong party!
Black, however, is a slightly more nuanced topic. Historically, wearing black to a wedding was considered a faux pas, as the colour is often associated with mourning and funerals. In the Victorian era, widows were expected to wear black for at least a year after the death of a spouse, and families who had experienced a loss would wear black for at least six months. During this time of mourning, attending celebratory events like weddings was strongly discouraged. As such, wearing black to a wedding came to be seen as inappropriate, and this aesthetic assumption has stuck around, to some extent, even in modern times.
However, many experts now agree that it is acceptable, and even encouraged, to wear black to an evening wedding. Wedding expert Ashley Smith explains that "Black is often considered the most formal, polished, and flattering colour", and stylist Corinne Pierre-Louis agrees, noting that "When all else fails, wear black. If guests are struggling to crack the couple's dress code, a black look is often the easiest and safest option". Black is also a versatile and neutral hue, offering flexibility in styling, and it can be easily dressed up with bright accessories.
That being said, it is important to consider the type of wedding you're attending. While black attire is perfect for a formal event or a wedding during the colder months, it may be best to opt for something more colourful and cheerful for a summertime celebration or beach nuptials. It is also worth noting that some cultures have different views on wearing black to weddings. For example, at an Indian wedding, any colour may be fine, and plain white can be associated with funerals. So, if in doubt, it is always a good idea to ask the couple, a member of the bridal party, or another guest for their opinion on attire. Ultimately, as long as you are wearing something appropriate and in keeping with the couple's chosen dress code, and you are not trying to upstage the happy couple, you should be able to wear black to an evening wedding without causing offence.
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Steer clear of ultra-pale pastels
When it comes to wedding attire, there are a few colours that are considered taboo. The most well-known colour to avoid is white, as well as any variation of white or cream, such as ivory, off-white, eggshell, beige, champagne, and ecru. This is to avoid upstaging the bride, as it is customary for the bride to be the only person wearing white.
However, ultra-pale pastels, such as baby blue, cotton candy pink, and butter yellow, can also be considered off-limits. These colours can sometimes be mistaken for white, especially in certain lighting conditions or when photographed. For example, ultra-pale yellow can be mistaken for ivory, and light silver and pale grey can appear white in sunlight. Pale pastels can also look much lighter in bright lighting, so it is best to avoid them to avoid making an unintended fashion faux pas. Even shades like pale pink and ice blue can appear white in sheer fabrics.
Additionally, it is important to consider the colour of the bridesmaids' dresses and try to avoid wearing something too similar. If you are unsure, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a different colour. While it may be tempting to stand out, a wedding is not the time to do so at the risk of upstaging the bridal party.
That being said, there is some debate about the appropriateness of wearing pale colours to a wedding. Some people argue that it is perfectly fine to wear whatever you want, as long as it is not a white gown. It can be challenging and costly to find a wedding-appropriate dress, so it is understandable if someone wants to wear something they already own, even if it is a pale colour. Ultimately, the most important consideration is to respect the couple's wishes and avoid upstaging the bridal party.
If you are unsure about whether a particular colour is appropriate, it may be helpful to reach out to a member of the wedding party, another guest, or the couple themselves to get their input. You can also take cues from the invitation, as most couples will incorporate their chosen colours and themes onto their paper products.
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Avoid wearing the same colour as the wedding party
Wearing black to a wedding has long been considered a fashion faux pas. In the Victorian era, widows were expected to wear black for at least a year after the death of their spouse, and mourners were discouraged from attending celebratory events. However, in modern times, wearing black to a wedding is generally considered acceptable and even encouraged, especially for formal events or weddings during the colder months.
That being said, it is important to pay attention to the dress code specified by the couple. If they have requested that guests avoid black, it is respectful to abide by their wishes. Additionally, wearing the same colour as the bridal party should be avoided. This is seen as a fashion mistake and may detract from the overall aesthetic of the wedding party.
When choosing a black outfit for a wedding, it is crucial to consider the style and fabric. While black is a versatile and flattering colour, it can sometimes feel overdressed or too sombre for a celebratory occasion. Lighter fabrics such as satin or linen are more suitable for warmer weather, while longer styles may be more appropriate for formal weddings.
It is also worth noting that certain cultures, such as Indian and Chinese cultures, traditionally avoid black at weddings as it represents mourning. If you are attending a traditional wedding from one of these cultures, it is respectful to consider alternative colour options.
Ultimately, the decision to wear black to a wedding depends on various factors, including the dress code, the time of year, the wedding's theme and location, and cultural considerations. As a guest, it is essential to respect the couple's wishes and avoid detracting from the bridal party's chosen colours.
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Formal wear is usually required for evening weddings
When it comes to wedding attire, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is generally advised to avoid wearing white or any variation of white, such as ivory, off-white, or cream, as these colours are typically reserved for the bride. Additionally, it is important to consider the time of day and seasonality of the wedding. For evening weddings, formal wear is usually recommended, with darker and more elegant hues taking precedence.
For women, formal evening wedding attire can include a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit. Darker colours, such as navy, are often a good choice for evening weddings, and can be paired with statement accessories to add a celebratory touch. While black-tie attire may call for more elegant and sophisticated styles, formal wedding attire offers more flexibility in terms of colour and embellishments. Lighter fabrics and brighter colours are also common for summer evening weddings, allowing guests to have fun with their fashion choices.
For men, a dark suit and tie are typically appropriate for formal evening weddings. A tuxedo is also an option, though not required, and can be paired with dress shoes such as patent leather loafers or laced oxfords. Cufflinks can add a touch of elegance to a suit, while a statement-making texture like corduroy can elevate a classic navy suit.
It is worth noting that the venue and season of the wedding can also influence attire choices. For example, a summer evening wedding may call for lighter fabrics, while a winter wedding may favour darker shades and thicker fabrics. Additionally, it is always a good idea to consider the couple's preferences and any specific dress code they may have provided.
In summary, when attending an evening wedding, guests are typically expected to adhere to a formal dress code. This entails darker and more elegant attire, with women opting for dresses or pantsuits, and men choosing between suits and tuxedos. However, it is important to keep in mind the season and venue, as well as any specific guidelines provided by the couple, to ensure a well-informed and respectful fashion choice.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the color. It is generally advised not to wear white or any shades of white, such as ivory, cream, or champagne, as these are reserved for the bride. Other colors to avoid include red, black, and denim. It is also important to avoid wearing the same color as the bridal party. If you are unsure, it is best to choose a dress with a pattern or in neutral tones.
Ultra-pale colors like baby blue, cotton candy pink, butter yellow, and misty ice blue can be considered shades of white, especially in certain lighting or fabrics. These colors may be mistaken for the bride's dress or the bridal party's attire, so it is generally best to avoid them.
While black is generally considered formal attire, wearing it to a wedding is controversial. Some sources suggest that black signifies disapproval of the union, while others recommend wearing a black dress to a formal wedding. If you are unsure, it may be best to consult a member of the bridal party or another guest for advice.
In addition to the colors previously mentioned, it is generally advised to avoid wearing anything too shimmery or distracting, such as sequins, sparkly tiaras, or sky-high platform heels. Denim, crop tops, short skirts, and plunging necklines are also considered inappropriate for a wedding.
No specific colors are considered mandatory for wedding guests. However, it is important to respect the couple by dressing formally and avoiding anything that may be considered too casual. It is also essential to consider the formality, location, and seasonal weather when choosing your outfit.
