Franklin Dean
Wedding guest attire is typically formal yet subtle, with colours that don't draw attention from the wedding party. Bridesmaid dresses, on the other hand, are chosen to complement the wedding theme and are often floor-length, though this is changing with the rise of the mismatched bridesmaid dress trend. While there is some overlap in the types of dresses that can be worn by wedding guests and bridesmaids, there are a few key distinctions to keep in mind.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Bridesmaid dresses are chosen by the bride and worn by bridesmaids during a wedding ceremony. Wedding guest dresses are worn by guests attending a wedding ceremony. |
| Reuse | Bridesmaid dresses are often chosen with the intention of being reused for other occasions, including other weddings. Wedding guest dresses are typically not reused by guests. |
| Style | Bridesmaid dresses are typically floor-length, but can also be midi-length, and may feature an interesting neckline. Bridesmaids often wear their hair in updos or curls and heavy makeup. Wedding guest dresses should be subtle yet formal, avoiding colours that are too light or similar to the bridal party's, and bold looks unless requested by the bride and groom. |
| Formality | Bridesmaid dresses are formal attire and may be made from fabrics such as satin or velvet. Wedding guest dresses can vary in formality depending on the dress code of the wedding, ranging from casual to black-tie. |
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What You'll Learn
Accessories
For bridesmaids, accessories can include sparkly jewellery, such as earrings, necklaces, and stylish gloves. These accessories add a touch of glamour to the bridesmaid's attire and create a cohesive look for the bridal party.
On the other hand, wedding guests have more flexibility in their accessory choices. They can choose from a variety of accessories, including stylish heels, dazzling necklaces, sparkling earrings, and detailed embellishments. Wedding guests can also opt for statement accessories, such as bold necklaces or earrings, to add a touch of glamour to their outfit.
When selecting accessories as a wedding guest, it is essential to consider the formality of the event and the wedding colour palette. For a black-tie affair, elegant and sophisticated accessories, such as a stylish clutch and a pair of dazzling earrings, can be a perfect choice. For an outdoor garden wedding, guests can opt for more relaxed accessories, such as a floral print scarf or a statement headband.
Additionally, wedding guests can use accessories to ensure they do not upstage the bridal party. By avoiding accessories that are too flashy or attention-grabbing, guests can strike a balance between standing out and respecting the bridal party's moment.
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Hairstyle
When it comes to hairstyles for bridesmaids, there are many options to choose from, and it's important to select a style that suits your personal taste and makes you feel beautiful. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Half-up, half-down: This style keeps hair off the face for photos while still looking romantic. It can be adapted for various hair textures, lengths, and types.
- Loose waves: Waves add a romantic touch to any bridesmaid look and can be dressed up or down.
- Updos: A classic choice for bridesmaids, updos can be elegant and practical, especially with strapless or off-the-shoulder dresses. Consider a bun, top knot, or chignon, which can be made more interesting with braids or face-framing strands.
- Braids: A voluminous fishtail braid or a crown braid with beachy waves can be a beautiful and practical choice, keeping hair out of the face.
- Hollywood waves: For a glamorous, vintage-inspired look, Hollywood waves are a perfect choice. Combine them with a high ponytail for a practical yet stylish look.
- Natural hair: For bridesmaids with natural hair, consider a relaxed updo with loose front pieces or a slicked-down look with gel for a cool party vibe.
- Accessories: Don't forget to consider hair accessories! A simple hair bow or flower crown can add a sweet touch to any hairstyle.
It's important to discuss the hairstyle choices with the bride and the other bridesmaids to ensure a cohesive look that complements the wedding's theme and aesthetic. Additionally, consider factors such as hair type, dress neckline, face shape, and climate when making your decision.
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Makeup
When it comes to makeup, bridesmaids should consider the style of the wedding, the venue, and their dress, and aim for a cohesive look with the other bridesmaids and the bride.
If you are a bridesmaid, you may be offered the option of having your makeup done professionally, or you may be expected to do it yourself. There are pros and cons to both. A professional makeup artist can ensure your makeup is long-lasting and looks good in photos. However, this can be expensive, and you may not like the final look. Doing your own makeup can be more affordable, and you can ensure it's a style you like, but it may not be as long-lasting. If you are doing your own makeup, consider using long-wear products and setting sprays to ensure it lasts all day.
If you are the bride, you may want to offer some direction to your bridesmaids on their makeup, to ensure a cohesive look. However, it's important to remember that everyone has different skin tones, textures, and features, so the exact makeup look may vary between bridesmaids. You could suggest a colour palette or theme, or ask them to send you pictures of their planned look.
Some popular bridesmaid makeup looks include:
- Fresh-face beauty: a natural, soft look with light coverage, nude shades on the eyes and lips, and rosy cheeks.
- Soft glam: a simple, yet stunning look with blended, soft lines, neutral eye palettes, and nude lips with a touch of shimmer.
- Full glam: Hollywood-style glamour with contouring, bold eye looks, and statement lips in gold, silver, or bronze.
- Dark and sultry: a dramatic look with deep shades like burgundy and black, bold brows, and dark lips, perfect for fall and winter weddings.
No matter what look you choose, the most important thing is to feel beautiful and comfortable in your own skin.
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Dress code
Wedding guest attire should be subtle yet formal, ensuring that you don't draw attention away from the wedding party. It is important to consider the style of the dress, the formality of the ceremony, and the couple's preferences. Wedding guest outfits should also align with the specified dress code, whether it is casual, semi-casual, black-tie, or another theme.
Bridesmaid dresses, traditionally identical for all bridesmaids, including the maid of honour, have evolved to embrace a mismatched trend. This blurs the lines between bridal party dresses and wedding guest attire, allowing bridesmaids to express their individuality and repurpose their dresses for other occasions. Bridesmaid dresses are often floor-length and may feature a range of fabrics, including satin, velvet, and chiffon.
When wearing a bridesmaid dress as a wedding guest, it is crucial to ensure you don't match the bridal party. Avoid colours that are too similar or styles that are identical to those of the bridesmaids. You can alter your bridesmaid dress by shortening the hemline, changing the neckline, or adding subtle details to create a unique look.
As a wedding guest, it is generally advised to avoid wearing white or light colours, such as champagne, beige, or cream, that may resemble the bride's gown. Glittery or sequined dresses are also discouraged to prevent upstaging the bride. It is essential to respect the dress code specified on the invitation and adapt your outfit accordingly.
Accessories can be a great way to differentiate a bridesmaid dress when worn as a wedding guest. Adding or removing embellishments, belts, or layers can help create a distinct look. Hairstyles and makeup can also set you apart from the bridal party. Opt for softer, more natural hair and makeup styles, as the bridal party is more likely to have intricate updos and bold, enhanced makeup looks.
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Colour
Bridesmaid Dresses
The colour of bridesmaid dresses is chosen by the bride to complement the wedding theme and the skin tones of the bridal party. While it was once traditional for bridesmaids to wear the same dress, modern brides often opt for a mix of styles and hues, which can make it challenging to find dresses that are complementary and cohesive.
When choosing a colour for bridesmaid dresses, it is important to consider the skin tones of the bridal party. Not everyone suits pastel or jewel tones, so it may be necessary to incorporate different tints of the same colour to maintain a cohesive look while catering to different skin tones. For example, if you decide on blue, you can have your bridesmaids wear powder blue, navy, and cobalt based on what looks best on them. If you prefer to stick to one shade, opt for a universally flattering colour like dark teal or maroon.
Popular colours for bridesmaid dresses include blushing pink, dusty sage, yellow, deep emerald, dusty blue, and champagne. For a garden wedding, green bridesmaid dresses are an excellent choice as they complement the natural surroundings. Butter yellow is the trending colour for 2025 weddings, and French blue is also popular this season.
Wedding Guest Dresses
When choosing a colour for a wedding guest dress, it is important to avoid colours that match the wedding palette or the bridal party. Wedding guests should aim for subtle colours that won't turn heads or stand out in wedding photos.
Pastel colours are a safe choice for wedding guest dresses, as they suit any skin tone and can be found in colours like pale pink, lilac purple, pale blue, and light green. For fall, winter, and nighttime weddings, velvet dresses are a good option.
If you have a bridesmaid dress that you want to rewear as a wedding guest, it is generally acceptable to do so as long as the colour and style do not match the bridal party. You can alter the dress to make it more suitable for a wedding guest, such as shortening the hemline, changing the neckline, removing sleeves, or adding a subtle slit.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but with some conditions. It's important to consider the dress's style, the ceremony's formality, and the couple's preferences. It's also important to ensure that you don't match the bridal party, as the bridesmaids are supposed to stand out from the guests.
Check with the bride-to-be or the bridesmaids about the colours and styles of their dresses. Usually, the invitation or couple's wedding website displays a mood board or colour scheme that you can use to guide your outfit selection.
You can add accessories such as a belt, bigger or bolder jewellery, or a cardigan, blazer, shawl, or scarf. You can also hem your dress to make it shorter or turn it into a cocktail dress, or have it cut and re-sewn into separates to create a top and skirt.
Bridesmaid dresses are often floor-length, while wedding guest dresses can vary in length depending on the formality of the wedding. Bridesmaid dresses also tend to be plainer, with fewer accessories, to allow the bridal party to stand out. Wedding guest dresses, on the other hand, can be more embellished and accessorised.
Consider the dress code of the wedding, which may be indicated on the invitation. Common dress codes include white-tie, black-tie, black-tie optional, semi-formal, and casual. The formality of the wedding will dictate the length, colour, and style of your dress. You should also consider the time of year, with darker colours more suitable for fall and winter weddings, and lighter colours for spring and summer.
