Rhiannon Hendricks
In Spain, wedding dresses have traditionally been black, symbolising a bride's commitment and devotion to her husband. However, in modern times, white dresses have become more popular, with black now being seen as a nod to tradition. Some brides also opt for a flamenco-style dress, a tight-fitting, frilled silhouette, often paired with a folding fan. Although there are no colour rules for wedding guests, deep, rich tones are worn in autumn and winter, while vibrant, bright colours and floral prints are popular in spring and summer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dress Code | Semi-formal |
| Day Wedding Dress Length | Short |
| Night Wedding Dress Length | Long |
| Accessories | Fascinators, hats, heels |
| Colour | Deep, rich tones in autumn and winter; vibrant, bright colours and floral prints in spring and summer; pastel shades year-round |
| Colours to Avoid | White, black, red |
| Other | Jumpsuits, morning suits, two-piece suits |
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What You'll Learn
Brides traditionally wear black
In Spain, brides traditionally wore black dresses as a symbol of devotion to their husbands. This custom dates back to the 17th century when it was common for women to wear a veil or "mantilla" every day. The mantilla, an intricate lace veil, later became reserved for special occasions like weddings. While Spanish brides now favour white dresses, black is still occasionally worn, along with the traditional lace veil.
Black is a somewhat acceptable colour for wedding guests to wear in Spain, though it is not common. It is more often seen at night weddings. However, black should not be worn by guests if the wedding is in a church, as this is considered a faux pas. In addition, guests should avoid wearing white, as this is the colour of the bride.
In Spanish weddings, the focus is often on accessories rather than the colour of the dress. Fascinators, or "tocados", are commonly worn to day and night weddings, and are considered essential for a day wedding. Day weddings also call for pamelas, or broad-brimmed sun hats. The length of the dress is also important: short dresses are worn to day weddings, while long dresses are reserved for night weddings.
Overall, while black is not the most popular colour for brides or guests at Spanish weddings, it is not strictly prohibited. The most important thing is to adhere to the general rules of Spanish wedding attire and avoid upstaging the bride.
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White is prohibited
In Spanish weddings, white is reserved for the bride, and it is considered a serious faux pas for any other female guest to wear this colour. It is seen as a major breach of etiquette and is considered very taboo. It is also risky to wear a dress that is 'nearly white' or a similar shade, as this could be seen as too close to the bridal colour.
In Spain, weddings are steeped in tradition, and the bride is the only person who should wear white. This is a long-standing tradition, and in the past, brides wore black as a symbol of devotion to their husband. While black is no longer the norm, it is still not commonly worn by female guests, and many sources advise against it.
Spanish weddings are formal events, and the bride and groom's attire is very traditional. The groom will wear a two-piece suit, and the bride will wear a white dress, often with a black lace veil, or 'mantilla', which is a traditional Spanish accessory. The mantilla became fashionable in the 17th century, and it is still a popular choice for brides today.
Guests should always avoid wearing white to a Spanish wedding. It is also important to note that the length of a female guest's dress is less important than the colour and accessories. Guests should also be mindful of the time of day and season when choosing their outfit, with deep, rich tones for autumn and winter, and vibrant colours for spring and summer.
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Day weddings: short dresses
If you're attending a wedding in Spain, it can be stressful figuring out what to wear, especially if you're a foreigner. But don't worry, here are some tips to help you choose the perfect outfit for a day wedding.
In Spain, it is customary for women to wear short dresses to day weddings. Day weddings typically take place around 12 pm-2 pm and are followed by lunch at the reception. So, if you're attending a wedding around this time, a short dress is a good choice.
When choosing a short dress for a day wedding, consider the season and the latest fashion trends. For spring and summer weddings, opt for vibrant colours, floral prints, and breezy silhouettes. You can also add a tocado or fascinator to your outfit, which is a popular accessory for day weddings in Spain. Fascinators come in various shapes and sizes and can be tilted to the right side of the head or adjusted based on your hairstyle. Just remember to remove your hat once the mother-in-law has removed hers.
For autumn and winter weddings, deep, rich tones are a good choice. If you want to add an elegant touch to your outfit, consider wearing gloves. Just remember, the shorter the sleeve, the longer the glove should be and vice versa. And don't forget to remove your right-hand glove when greeting people and hold it in your left hand along with your clutch purse.
As for colours, there don't seem to be any specific rules. However, it's best to avoid wearing white, as this is typically reserved for the bride. Black is also not commonly worn by women attending weddings in Spain, but it's not considered a fashion faux pas. If you're unsure about colours, pastel shades are always a safe choice and can be worn all year round.
Finally, don't forget your shoes! Women usually wear heels to weddings in Spain, but it's a good idea to bring a pair of flats in your purse for when your feet need a break. With these tips in mind, you'll surely make a fashionable entrance at your next day wedding in Spain!
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Night weddings: long dresses
In Spain, weddings are steeped in tradition and culture. While there are no strict rules about what colour to wear, it is best to avoid wearing white to a wedding—the only person who should be wearing white is the bride. Black is also not typically worn by women when attending a wedding, although this is becoming more common for evening weddings.
Spanish weddings are generally quite formal, and casual attire is not recommended. For night weddings, long dresses are the traditional choice. Here are some tips and suggestions for choosing a long dress for a night wedding in Spain:
- Opt for darker shades and rich tones: Evening affairs call for darker colours. Go for elegant, formal long dresses in sleek silhouettes and minimalist designs. Rich velvets, deep jewel tones, and luxe fabrics like satin, chiffon, or crepe are perfect for a polished look.
- Consider the season: While vibrant, bright colours and floral prints are popular in spring and summer, deeper, moodier florals and earthy tones are more suitable for autumn and winter weddings. Lighter, soft floral dresses are also an option, especially if you want to embrace a more romantic, fresh feel.
- Accessorise accordingly: Pair your long dress with the right accessories based on the season. For night weddings, a "tocado" or fascinator is a popular choice. Fascinators come in various shapes and sizes and can add a stylish touch to your outfit. Just remember to match them with your dress and other accessories.
- Add a touch of glamour: If you want to stand out at a night wedding, consider a glistening formal gown or a sexy, elegant style with a slit. Statement shoes can also elevate your look and make it more fun and flirty.
- Avoid common faux pas: When it comes to Spanish wedding guest attire, the most common mistake is the inappropriate use or overuse of accessories and colours. Remember, it's best not to wear white or an all-black outfit unless you are the bride.
Remember, while these are guidelines, the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in your chosen outfit. Enjoy celebrating this special occasion in Spain!
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Renting an outfit is an option
Weddings in Spain are steeped in tradition, and the dress code for wedding guests is no exception. While there are no strict rules regarding colours, it is generally advised to avoid wearing black, and, of course, white.
If you're unsure what to wear to a wedding in Spain, renting an outfit is an option. This is a particularly appealing option for those who do not want to spend a fortune on a new outfit. There are several companies in Spain that offer this service, including Dolores Novias, which has boutiques in Madrid, Sevilla, and other Spanish cities. They offer a wide range of elegant wedding dresses and evening gowns for rent at affordable prices. Another option is JustNovias in Madrid, which caters to the practical, modern, and innovative woman who does not want to spend a fortune on a wedding dress.
If you're looking to rent a suit, Juan Moreno in Madrid offers tailored wedding suits and excellent personal service. Sir Lucky, also in Madrid, specialises in renting suits and other festive attire for men, with a wide variety of options available.
For those who are more environmentally conscious, renting an outfit is a great way to reduce waste. Additionally, renting an outfit can be a more cost-effective option, especially for those who only plan on wearing the outfit once.
While renting an outfit can be a convenient and sustainable option, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to plan ahead to ensure that you have enough time to find the right outfit and make any necessary alterations. Additionally, it is worth considering the cost of any potential damage to the rented outfit, as you may be responsible for any repairs or replacements.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no single colour that a wife is expected to wear to a wedding in Spain. However, it is important to avoid wearing white, as this is the colour of the bride. Black is also sometimes considered taboo, though this is not always the case. It is also recommended to avoid red.
It is common for wives to wear a dress or jumpsuit to a wedding in Spain. If the wedding is in the evening, a long dress or jumpsuit is appropriate. If the wedding is during the day, a short dress is more common. It is also recommended to wear closed-toe shoes.
Accessories depend on the season and time of day. For a daytime wedding, a "tocado" or "pamela" (a fascinator or broad-brimmed sun hat) is appropriate. It is also important to consider the material of your outfit—in spring and summer, light and flowy materials like chiffon, tulle, and silk are common.
