Bridesmaids' Rehearsal Dinner: Choosing The Perfect Attire

There's a lot more to being a bridesmaid than just supporting the bride on her big day. In between the excitement of choosing what to wear to the bachelorette party, the bridal shower, and the wedding itself, one event that often goes overlooked is the rehearsal dinner.

The rehearsal dinner is a fun, low-stakes event that allows you to get to know some of the bride's close friends and family better. It's also a chance to showcase your personal style. But how do you choose what to wear?

Unless the bride has specific plans, like coordinating outfits, the venue, the weather, and the event's formality should be your guide. Most rehearsal dinners aren't as formal as the wedding itself, but it's still important to dress to impress.

What not to wear: no white, nothing too flashy, no denim, and no sneakers

As a bridesmaid, you'll want to look and feel your best at the rehearsal dinner. It's an opportunity to showcase your personal style and have fun with your look. However, it's important to keep in mind what not to wear to ensure you don't detract from the bride's special evening. Here are some key things to avoid when choosing your outfit:

No White

It's essential to remember that white is typically reserved for the bride, so steer clear of wearing anything in this colour or similar shades like cream or ivory. This is a universal rule for all guests, but as a member of the bridal party, it's especially important to follow this guideline.

Nothing Too Flashy

While it's great to showcase your style, the rehearsal dinner isn't the time to go overboard with flashy or overly sexy outfits. Avoid anything that could be considered too distracting, such as loud prints or sequins. The focus should remain on the bride, so opt for subtle prints and understated elegance.

No Denim

Even if the event is casual, denim is generally not appropriate for a rehearsal dinner. It's best to opt for something more elevated and in line with the special occasion. Jeans are usually a no-go unless specifically stated otherwise by the couple or the bride.

No Sneakers

While comfort is important, sneakers are typically not the best choice for footwear at a rehearsal dinner. Unless the event is extremely casual, such as a backyard barbecue, opt for dressier shoes like sandals, flats, or heels. This will help ensure your look is polished and aligns with the celebratory nature of the event.

Remember, the key is to strike a balance between comfort and style, choosing an outfit that is appropriate for the setting and the occasion. You want to look and feel fabulous while also ensuring the bride remains the centre of attention!

Dress for the season: light and airy for summer, heavier fabrics for fall, etc

When choosing what to wear to a rehearsal dinner as a bridesmaid, it's important to consider the season and weather. Here are some tips to help you select an appropriate outfit:

For summer rehearsal dinners, light and airy fabrics are a popular choice. Opt for something sleeveless, in bold colours or large prints, and unique cut-outs. Sandals or open-toed shoes are recommended to complete the look.

In the spring, go for airy fabrics that feel lightweight and comfortable. A midi or knee-length dress in subtle floral prints or pastels is a good choice. You might also want a light jacket or sweater for transitional weather.

For autumn, choose slightly heavier fabrics that are still comfortable and breathable. Darker, warm colour tones and subtle prints are ideal. This is also a great time to experiment with closed or open-toed shoes.

Winter calls for thicker and more structured fabrics in deeper tones or even metallic shades. A long-sleeve cowl-neck design or a high-neck silhouette in velvet is a stylish option. Don't forget to consider your footwear, as you'll likely be facing colder temperatures.

No matter the season, it's important to strike a balance between comfort and style. Rehearsal dinners are a chance to showcase your personal style, so feel free to add romantic details like puff sleeves, ruching, or bow accents. Ultimately, the key is to dress appropriately for the occasion while celebrating the bride-to-be and her partner.

Dress for the venue: casual for a backyard barbecue, semi-formal for a cocktail bar, etc

The venue and level of formality of the rehearsal dinner will determine what the bridesmaids should wear. Here are some ideas for different venues:

Casual for a Backyard Barbecue

For a casual rehearsal dinner, such as a backyard barbecue, it's essential to strike a balance between comfort and style. A fun printed sundress, a simple maxi dress, or stylish separates like a top and skirt combo are great options. As for footwear, sandals, flats, or kitten heels are comfortable choices. Avoid super flashy accessories and keep your look simple and elegant. A midi or mini dress with a playful touch, such as ruffles or bows, would also be a perfect choice for a casual, relaxed gathering.

Semi-formal for a Cocktail Bar

For a semi-formal venue like a cocktail bar, winery, or tasting room, your attire should be a bit more polished than casual. A stylish silk or crepe midi dress, an elegant jumpsuit, or a two-piece set are excellent choices. Wide-leg pants and a statement top can also make you look sophisticated and chic. Finish your look with simple accessories like gold jewellery and sleek heels. If the event is held during winter, swap the heels for booties and add a pair of tights to stay warm.

Formal for an Upscale Restaurant, Hotel, or Country Club

For a formal rehearsal dinner at an upscale restaurant, hotel, or country club, opt for floor-length gowns or cocktail dresses that hit right above the ankle. Rich colours like navy blue, slate grey, champagne, or jewel tones are perfect choices. Accessories should be refined and elegant, with perhaps a touch of sparkle. Luxe fabrics like satin, silk, organza, sheer, or lace will make you look sophisticated and stylish.

Dress for comfort: choose comfortable shoes and an outfit that allows for movement

As a bridesmaid, you want to look stylish, but comfort is also key. You'll be rehearsing the wedding ceremony, so you'll need to be able to move around freely and feel confident.

For footwear, opt for shoes that you feel comfortable and confident walking in. Sandals, flats, or kitten heels are a good choice. Avoid new shoes that you haven't broken in yet—the last thing you want the day before the wedding is sore feet!

For your outfit, choose something relaxed and comfortable. A fun printed sundress, a simple maxi dress, or stylish separates like a top and skirt combo will allow you to move around with ease. If you're attending a summer wedding rehearsal, go for light and airy fabrics. For winter, layer up with a blazer or shawl.

If you're after a go-to outfit that will work for almost any setting, a maxi wrap dress with a thick heel mule and a crossbody clutch is a great option. It's comfortable and effortless, allowing you to focus on the celebrations.

Remember, this is a special event, so dress accordingly. You want to look like you're going to a summer wedding, so steer clear of anything too casual, like denim or sneakers.

Ask the bride: if in doubt, check with the bride or other members of the bridal party

If you're unsure what to wear as a bridesmaid to a rehearsal dinner, it's a good idea to ask the bride or other members of the bridal party. While there are some general guidelines, every wedding is different, and the bride may have specific plans or requests.

The most important thing to keep in mind is the dress code. If you're unsure of the dress code, be sure to ask the bride or another member of the wedding party. Once you know the dress code, you can choose an outfit that fits the level of formality. For example, if the dress code is casual, you might want to wear a fun printed sundress or a simple maxi dress with sandals, flats, or kitten heels. If the dress code is semi-formal, you might opt for a stylish midi dress or an elegant jumpsuit. For a formal event, you might wear a floor-length gown or a cocktail dress, with rich colours or jewel tones.

You'll also want to consider the venue and the season when choosing your outfit. If the rehearsal dinner is at a casual restaurant by the water, you might wear an easy, flowy dress. But if it's at an upscale hotel or a fancy rooftop bar, you might want to dress up a bit more, perhaps with a beaded cocktail dress or a statement sequin look. The season will also impact your choice of outfit. For summer, go with light, bright colours, and for fall and winter, jewel tones are perfect.

Remember, the rehearsal dinner is about celebrating the bride-to-be, so dress accordingly. You don't want to wear anything that will upstage the bride, so if you're unsure, it's always best to check with her or another member of the bridal party.

Frequently asked questions