George Boyle
When it comes to wedding attire, there are a few colours that are generally considered taboo for guests to wear. The most well-known colour to avoid is white, as well as shades of white such as ivory, cream, champagne, and beige. This is because the bride should be the only person wearing white, and these colours can be too similar to the bride's dress and may cause confusion or take attention away from the couple. In some cultures, wearing red to a wedding is also considered inappropriate, as it is the colour of joy, happiness, and good luck for brides in those traditions. Additionally, it is generally advised to avoid denim, overly casual outfits, and extremely flashy or revealing clothing.
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What You'll Learn
Avoid white, ivory, and other light colours
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, it's essential to consider the colour of your outfit. While there are no fixed rules, some colours are generally considered taboo for wedding guests. One of the most well-known colour taboos for wedding guests is white and various light colours. This is because wearing white could be seen as an attempt to draw attention away from the bride, who traditionally wears white. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid wearing white to a wedding unless the couple has specifically requested an all-white dress code.
In addition to white, shades of white, such as ivory, cream, off-white, and champagne, are also best avoided. These colours are similar to white and may be considered inappropriate for wedding guests. Even light colours that could be mistaken for white in photographs, such as very pale colours, are generally not recommended. This is especially true if the wedding follows a Western tradition, where the bride typically wears white.
The colour white holds different cultural meanings in different parts of the world. For example, in India, white is associated with mourning rather than weddings. Therefore, it is always a good idea to research the cultural and traditional aspects of the wedding you are attending to ensure you don't accidentally wear a colour that may be considered inappropriate or disrespectful.
When in doubt, it is advisable to choose colours that complement the wedding theme and the couple's chosen colour palette. You can usually gather some clues about the colour scheme from the invitation. Additionally, consider the formality of the event, the location, and the season to help you select appropriate colours and fabrics. For example, for a formal wedding, floor-length gowns are standard, while tea-length dresses are acceptable for weddings before 6:00 pm.
Lastly, remember that the goal is to look polished, festive, and respectful without upstaging the couple. Avoid overly casual outfits, skimpy attire, and anything that could be considered distracting, such as garish colours or overly shiny fabrics. Instead, opt for outfits with pared-back fabrics like unembellished lace, chiffon, velvet, and crepe.
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Don't wear black to most weddings
Wearing black to a wedding has long been considered a fashion faux pas, with the colour traditionally 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 often wore black for at least six months. During this time, attending parties and other celebratory occasions was strongly discouraged, so no one wore black to weddings.
However, in the modern day, wearing black to a wedding is generally considered acceptable, and in many cases, it is even encouraged. Wedding expert Ashley Smith notes that "black is often considered the most formal, polished, and flattering colour". It is a versatile and sophisticated choice, and a safe option if you want to rewear your outfit to multiple weddings.
That being said, it is important to consider the context of the wedding. If the couple has specified a colour-specific dress code or requested that guests wear a certain print, it is important to respect that. Wearing the same colour as the bridal party is also generally considered a fashion faux pas. Additionally, wearing black to a daytime beach wedding may not be appropriate, whereas it may be more suitable for a dressier evening wedding.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to follow the couple's chosen dress code and cultural norms, and to avoid wearing anything that could be seen as taking attention away from the happy couple. If in doubt, it is always a good idea to check with the couple or other guests to see what they are wearing and what is considered appropriate.
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Red is a no-go for some cultures
Red, a colour often associated with passion and love, may be deemed inappropriate for weddings in some cultures. In China, for instance, red symbolises joy, happiness, and good luck, and is commonly worn by brides on their wedding day. As such, wearing red as a guest to a Chinese wedding would be considered disrespectful and inappropriate. Similarly, in Indian culture, red is a popular colour for brides, along with peach, gold, and orange. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid wearing red to a Chinese or Indian wedding to respect the cultural significance of this colour.
However, the appropriateness of wearing red to a wedding may vary depending on regional and cultural contexts. While red may be avoided in some cultures, it can be a perfectly acceptable choice in others. For instance, in Western weddings, there is no universal consensus on avoiding red, and guests can often wear this colour without causing offence.
It is worth noting that wedding dress codes can be influenced by various factors, including formality, location, season, and personal preferences of the couple. When in doubt about what colour to wear, it is always a good idea to consult with the couple, their wedding party, or other guests to ensure your attire aligns with their expectations and cultural traditions.
Additionally, while red may be avoided in some cultures, other colours are more universally frowned upon. Wearing white, ivory, or similar shades is often considered a major faux pas, as it may be seen as upstaging the bride. Black, while acceptable in certain contexts, such as formal evening weddings, may be considered inappropriate in other settings due to its association with mourning.
Ultimately, the decision to wear red or any other colour to a wedding should consider the cultural context, the couple's preferences, and the potential for causing offence. Being mindful of these factors will help ensure that your attire choice respects the traditions and wishes of the couple on their special day.
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No denim or casualwear
While it's important to be comfortable, especially if you're planning on hitting the dance floor, there are some items of clothing that are best left at home when attending a wedding. Even if the wedding has a casual dress code, jeans, T-shirts, tank tops, flip-flops, and sneakers are generally considered off-limits. If you're unsure, it's always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
When it comes to denim, it's best to leave it at home unless the couple has specifically noted that it's acceptable. While a denim jacket may be appropriate as outerwear, it's generally recommended to opt for a leather jacket or shawl instead. Denim pants, skirts, overalls, and dresses are typically considered too casual for a wedding.
If you're attending a casual wedding, you might be wondering what type of outfit is appropriate. While you can wear something more comfortable and similar to your everyday attire, it's important to avoid showing up in jeans and a T-shirt. For men, a nice pair of khakis and a collared shirt are a good option. For women, a knee-length dress or a nicely pressed dress shirt and slacks are suitable choices.
It's also important to consider the location and season of the wedding when choosing your outfit. For example, a beach wedding calls for breezy attire like sundresses or silk shirts and khakis. On the other hand, a formal wedding in cold weather might require a longer dress paired with a shawl or faux fur coat and low heels.
In addition to denim, there are a few other things to avoid when it comes to wedding attire. Firstly, stay away from white, ivory, or any outfit that could be mistaken for white. It's also best to avoid skimpy outfits, clothing with a lot of exposed skin, and anything that is too flashy or attention-stealing. Instead, opt for outfits with pared-back fabrics like unembellished lace, chiffon, velvet, and crepe.
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No revealing clothing
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, it's important to consider the level of formality, location, season, and weather. If the wedding is formal, opt for floor-length gowns or tuxedos. For semi-formal or informal weddings, cocktail dresses, business suits, or sport coats and slacks are appropriate. Beach weddings call for breezy attire, while outdoor weddings in colder weather require warmer clothing and attention to footwear.
Regardless of the setting, it's essential to respect cultural and religious norms. Revealing clothing may not be suitable, especially in religious institutions. Stylist Julie Sabatino recommends choosing one feature to showcase rather than "having everything out on display." For example, if you want to wear a plunging neckline, opt for a longer skirt. Similarly, if you prefer a shorter skirt, consider a more conservative top.
The Mini Phare dress is a versatile option that highlights legs and shoulders without being too revealing. ASOS and Chi Chi London also offer non-revealing options, including long-sleeved crop tops with maxi skirts.
When it comes to colour, it's best to avoid white, ivory, and other light shades that could be mistaken for white. Black is also generally avoided but may be acceptable in certain regions or for evening weddings. Instead, opt for pastel, muted, or jewel tones, especially emerald, plum, burgundy, deep red, and dark blue.
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Frequently asked questions
Colours that are typically not allowed at weddings include white, ivory, off-white, beige, champagne, and cream. These colours are typically reserved for the bride, and wearing them as a guest may be seen as a major faux pas.
Yes, it is generally recommended to avoid wearing red to a Chinese wedding, as it is considered the colour of joy, happiness, and good luck. Additionally, black is often considered a no-go colour for weddings in many places, but may be appropriate for evening weddings or formal events.
It is generally recommended to avoid wearing anything too revealing or skimpy, such as crop tops, dresses with mesh, short skirts, or plunging necklines. It is important to respect the solemnity of the occasion and not distract from the bride.
Yes, it is important to consider the formality, location, and seasonal weather when choosing a dress colour. For example, bright colours and flowy fabrics may be more appropriate for daytime weddings, while evening weddings may call for more formal attire in darker hues. Additionally, it is generally recommended to avoid overly casual outfits, denim, and distracting prints or colours.
