Franklin Dean
Choosing what colour to wear to a wedding can be a nerve-wracking experience. You want to look good, but also be respectful of the occasion. There are several factors to consider when selecting your outfit colour, such as the dress code, location, season, and time of day. It is also important to avoid wearing colours that are too similar to the wedding party or that could be seen as taboo, such as white, ivory, or denim. With these restrictions in mind, you can then choose a colour that complements your skin tone and the wedding's overall aesthetic. For formal weddings, darker colours like navy, emerald green, plum, or black are typically considered appropriate, while semi-formal weddings offer more flexibility, with jewel tones, bold hues, and pastels all being acceptable choices.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Occasion | Beach, formal, semiformal, informal, casual |
| Time of year | Winter, autumn, summer, spring |
| Time of day | Evening, daytime |
| Location | Outdoors, indoors |
| Weather | Cold, warm |
| Dress code | Black tie, floor-length gowns, tuxedos, black suits, below-the-knee dresses, dress shirts, slacks, jeans and t-shirts |
| Colour | White, khaki, light blue, beige, navy, black, charcoal grey, emerald, burgundy, plum, cream, rose gold, silver, red, pink, gold, tan, ivory, champagne, denim, glitter |
| Fabric | Satin, lace, organza, sequins, chiffon, velvet, crepe, leather |
| Style | Maxi, mini, backless, off-the-shoulder, unstructured blazer, colourful tie |
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What You'll Learn
What colours are considered taboo at weddings?
When it comes to choosing a dress for your wedding reception, there are many colours to choose from. Some popular choices include continuing with a white hue or opting for a playful pop of colour like rose gold, pink, silver, or red.
However, there are some colours that are considered taboo for guests to wear at weddings. The most well-known colour to avoid is white, as it is traditionally reserved for the bride. Guests should also avoid wearing shades of white such as ivory, cream, champagne, and beige. Black is another colour that is sometimes considered taboo at weddings, as it is associated with mourning. However, this perception has shifted in recent years, especially for evening or formal weddings. While black can be worn to evening weddings, it may still be considered too heavy or serious for a casual or daytime wedding. To lighten the look, black outfits can be paired with colourful accessories.
Other colours that are generally considered inappropriate for wedding guests include bright neon colours, which can be distracting and overwhelming. Guests should also avoid matching the bridesmaids or wearing overly sparkly outfits that draw too much attention away from the couple. It is also important to consider cultural sensitivities, such as avoiding red if it is the bridal colour in certain cultures. Additionally, denim is typically considered inappropriate for wedding attire, unless otherwise noted by the couple.
Ultimately, the most important factor when choosing a wedding outfit is to ensure that you do not overshadow the couple and to respect the significance of the day.
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What colours are safe to wear to a wedding?
When deciding what colour to wear to a wedding, it's essential to avoid anything that could be mistaken for the bride's dress or the wedding party's colours. Traditionally, white is off-limits for guests, as are shades of white such as ivory, cream, champagne, and light golds and tans. This is because these colours are usually reserved for the bride and may be considered inappropriate for guests. However, in some cultures and regions, red is the traditional colour for brides, so it's best to avoid that too. It's also important to check the dress code specified on the invitation and avoid any colours mentioned there.
If you're attending a beach wedding, light and breezy colours like white, khaki, beige, and light blue are appropriate choices. For a casual wedding, it's still important to dress up; think business suits, cocktail dresses, or sport coats and slacks. Neutral tones and solid colours are a good choice, and you can experiment with prints as long as they're not too distracting. Lighter colours like khaki and grey generally work well for casual weddings, especially during the summer.
For formal weddings, dark colours are a safe choice, and you can also consider jewel tones for evening gowns. Black is acceptable for formal and semi-formal weddings, but it's important to choose something cheerful rather than funeral-like attire. Navy, charcoal grey, and black are safe choices for evening weddings or formal to informal dress codes. These colours are also suitable for autumn and winter weddings, reflecting the season's atmosphere and providing warmth.
Ultimately, the safest bets are colours that work for almost any wedding. While you can experiment with colours like emerald, burgundy, and plum for autumn and winter weddings, or trendy colours for a fashion-forward look, it's best to avoid anything that could be considered too flashy or attention-grabbing. Instead, opt for complementary, less flashy tones that will look great in photos and ensure you don't upstage the happy couple or their wedding party.
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What colours should I avoid wearing to a beach wedding?
When choosing an outfit for a beach wedding, it's important to consider the colours that will complement the setting and avoid any hues that might be considered taboo or inappropriate. Here are some colours you should typically avoid wearing to a beach wedding:
White and Off-White Shades
It is generally considered a faux pas to wear white to a wedding, as it may be seen as upstaging the bride. This includes not only pure white but also ivory, eggshell, champagne, cream, and other super light colours that could be mistaken for white. These colours might be more suitable for a winter wedding but are best avoided at a beach wedding, where brighter and lighter colours are often preferred.
Black
While black is a safe choice for a formal or semi-formal wedding, especially in the evening, it may be too dark and formal for a beach wedding. Lighter and brighter colours are more typical for a beach setting. However, if the beach wedding is more formal or takes place in the evening, black could be a suitable choice, especially with the right fabric.
Denim
Denim is generally considered too casual for a wedding, including beach weddings. While a denim jacket may be acceptable as outerwear, it's best to avoid denim pants, skirts, dresses, or overalls. Instead, opt for lighter and more breezy fabrics that complement the beach setting.
Bright Yellow
While yellow can be a cheerful colour for a beach wedding, very bright shades like bumblebee yellow might be too attention-grabbing and could look out of place. If you want to incorporate yellow, consider softer or creamier shades that will give you a romantic and simple look.
Deep or Dark Colours
Deep and dark colours, such as navy, charcoal grey, and emerald, are often more suitable for autumn and winter weddings. They may be too heavy or formal for a beach wedding, where the setting and atmosphere call for lighter and brighter colours.
When choosing an outfit for a beach wedding, it's essential to consider the dress code specified in the invitation and the overall theme of the wedding. Lighter and brighter colours that complement the beach setting are often preferred, but it's always a good idea to avoid colours that might be seen as upstaging the wedding party or clashing with the chosen colour scheme.
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What colours should I wear to a wedding with a formal dress code?
When it comes to colours, there are a few things to consider when dressing for a formal wedding. Firstly, it's important to avoid wearing white or any colours that could be mistaken for white, such as ivory, cream, or champagne. This is to ensure you don't take attention away from the bride. It's also a good idea to avoid colours that are too bright or flashy, as these can be distracting. Instead, opt for darker, more formal colours, especially if the wedding is in the evening. Navy, black, and charcoal grey are always safe choices for evening weddings or formal dress codes. For a winter or autumn wedding, these darker shades are also a good option to match the season.
However, if the wedding is during the day, lighter colours and fabrics are more appropriate. Floral prints, soft chiffons, and cotton are all suitable choices for daytime weddings. If the wedding is in the summer, lighter fabrics and brighter colours are common for formal attire. You can also consider the venue and season to guide your colour choices. For example, a garden party dress code suggests a more cheerful colour palette, while a country club setting calls for classy and stylish attire.
If you want to add some colour to your outfit, you can experiment with trendy jumpsuits, suits with colourful jackets, or bold accessories. For men, a colourful tie or pocket square can add a pop of colour to a navy or grey suit. Remember, it's always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed at a formal wedding, so don't be afraid to embrace the formality and have fun with your outfit choices!
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What colours should the bride avoid?
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress colour, there are a few shades and hues that a bride should typically avoid. The most important rule is to avoid wearing white to someone else's wedding. This includes ivory, off-white, beige, champagne, cream, and super light colours that could be mistaken for white. Even wearing a pattern on white fabric is considered inappropriate. This rule is so important because the bride should be the only person wearing white to stand out on her special day.
Another colour to avoid is black. Although this is acceptable at evening weddings, particularly in places like New York City, wearing black to a wedding can be seen as inappropriate because it is also a colour typically worn to funerals. To avoid any misinterpretations, it may be safer to wear a brighter, cheerier colour.
It is also best to avoid wearing any colours that are too similar to the bridal party's outfits. This can be challenging, especially if you don't know anyone in the immediate circle. In this case, it is recommended to play it safe and wear a classic black dress or another colour that is not too similar to the bridal party.
As a bride, it is also important to avoid wearing anything too shimmery or distracting. This includes glittery fabrics, all-over sequins, and metallic gold, silver, and rose gold hues. These colours can draw attention away from the bride and are best saved for the bachelorette party or another night out. Instead, the bride should stick to outfits with pared-back fabrics such as unembellished lace, chiffon, velvet, and crepe.
Lastly, it is recommended to avoid denim and casual fabrics like jeans and t-shirts. These fabrics are considered too casual and sporty for a wedding and can take attention away from the bride.
By avoiding these colours and fabrics, a bride can ensure that she stands out on her special day and does not accidentally commit a wedding faux pas.
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Frequently asked questions
It is generally advised to avoid wearing white, off-white, eggshell, beige, champagne, cream, ivory, or any other colours that could be mistaken for white. You should also avoid wearing the same colours as the bridal party.
Navy, black, charcoal grey, and burgundy are colours that work for almost any type of wedding.
Bright colours may be too summery for a beach wedding. Lighter colours like pastels, pinks, yellows, and lavender are popular choices for a beach wedding.
Lighter colours may be out of place at a winter wedding. Jewel tones, darker shades like burgundy, wine red, or eggplant, and warmer colours like amber or mustard yellow are all flattering options for cold weather weddings.
