Bridesmaids' Attire Guide: When The Bride Wears Red

When it comes to choosing an outfit for a wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind, especially if you're in the wedding party. One of the most well-known rules for wedding guests is to avoid wearing white, but what about the bride's chosen colour? Is it okay for bridesmaids to wear red if the bride is? While there is no definitive answer, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when choosing bridesmaid dresses, such as the wedding's theme, the bride's preferences, and cultural traditions.

Bridesmaids can wear wine, berry or burgundy shades

If the bride is wearing red, the bridesmaids can wear wine, berry or burgundy shades. These colours are elegant and understated, and they complement the bride's vibrant red outfit without drawing attention away from her.

Wine, berry and burgundy are also ideal because they are slightly muted, so they are less likely to be seen as a "look at me" statement. This means the bride can shine, while her bridesmaids still look sophisticated and stylish.

These colours are also a good choice because they are versatile and suit most skin tones. They are also appropriate for all seasons, though they are especially perfect for autumn and winter weddings.

If the bridesmaids are wearing wine, berry or burgundy, they can also add some red accents to their makeup, nails, clutch or jewellery. This will tie their look together with the bride's outfit and add a stylish touch of colour.

Overall, wine, berry and burgundy shades are an elegant and understated choice for bridesmaids if the bride is wearing red. These colours complement the bride's outfit without being too attention-grabbing, and they are versatile, stylish and appropriate for all seasons.

Avoid red if it's an Asian wedding

If the bride is wearing red, it is likely that the wedding has ties to Chinese culture and traditions. Red is the traditional colour for brides in Chinese culture, and it is considered an auspicious colour that represents joy, celebration, happiness, good fortune, success, and fertility.

If this is the case, it is important to avoid wearing red as a bridesmaid. This could be seen as upstaging the bride or competing for attention. It is also best to avoid wearing black or white, as these colours are typically worn at Chinese funerals and signify death and mourning. Instead, opt for warm-toned colours such as purple or pink, which represent the new life the couple will embark on.

If you are unsure about the wedding's cultural ties, it is worth checking in with the couple to see how formal the wedding will be and what the requested dress code is. This will help you choose an appropriate outfit that fits the culture and traditions being celebrated.

Remember, the most important thing is to respect the couple's culture and traditions while also feeling comfortable and confident in your choice of attire.

Avoid red if it's a church wedding

If you're a bridesmaid and the bride is wearing red, it's important to consider the venue and any cultural implications of your attire. While red is a vibrant and cheerful colour, it may be best to avoid it if the wedding is taking place in a church. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Firstly, red is a bold and eye-catching colour that can be seen as attention-grabbing. While it's perfectly fine for the bride to stand out, as a bridesmaid, you may want to opt for a more subdued colour that complements the bride's choice without taking away from her special day.

Secondly, in some cultures, wearing red to a wedding is considered inappropriate. For example, in Asian cultures, the bride may wear a red dress, so a guest or bridesmaid wearing red could be seen as a breach of etiquette. It's always important to be mindful of cultural traditions and avoid any potential misunderstandings.

Thirdly, a church wedding often calls for a more conservative and modest dress code. Red can be seen as a sultry or racy colour, which may not be well-suited to the solemnity and sacredness of a church setting. Opting for softer shades or pastels can create a more elegant and understated look.

Additionally, you can still incorporate red into your bridesmaid ensemble without making it the primary colour. Consider using red as an accent colour in your accessories, such as shoes, a clutch, or jewellery. This way, you can add a touch of vibrancy while maintaining a more subtle overall look.

Finally, it's essential to discuss your attire choices with the bride. She may have specific preferences or visions for how she wants her bridal party to look. Collaborating with her will ensure that your choice of attire aligns with her expectations and the overall theme of the wedding.

Red is a go if the bride gives consent

It's worth noting that wearing red to a wedding has traditionally been frowned upon. Some believe that wearing a bright colour could distract from the couple, especially the bride. However, this idea is becoming less common, and many now believe that as long as the outfit is tasteful and elegant, there's no problem with wearing red to a wedding.

If you're a bridesmaid and the bride is wearing red, it's essential to communicate with her about what you should wear. The most important thing is that she feels comfortable and supported by her bridal party. If she's happy for you to wear red, go for it! You could even incorporate different shades of red into your outfit, such as wine, berry, or burgundy, to add some variety to the wedding party.

It's also important to be mindful of cultural traditions. In some cultures, such as Chinese and Indian weddings, it is considered highly inappropriate for guests to wear red as it is often the colour the bride wears. So, if you're attending a wedding with cultural traditions that you're unfamiliar with, it's always a good idea to do some research or ask the couple about what is and isn't appropriate.

Ultimately, the decision of what to wear is a collaborative effort between the bride and the bridesmaids. It's important to choose an outfit that everyone is happy with and feels comfortable in. So, if the bride is wearing red and gives her consent, there's no reason why the bridesmaids can't wear red too!

Red is a no if it's skimpy or inappropriate

If you're a bridesmaid and the bride is wearing red, it's important to remember that the wedding is not about you. While red is a vibrant and eye-catching colour, it is also associated with being sexy, sultry, racy, devilish, and even dangerous. These are not the attributes you want to be described by as a bridesmaid.

Therefore, if you're considering wearing red as a bridesmaid, it's crucial to choose a dress that is tasteful and elegant. Avoid anything too skimpy or inappropriate for the dress code, season, or weather. Opt for a more muted shade of red, such as wine, berry, or burgundy, which are more wedding-appropriate than a bright, vibrant red.

Additionally, pay attention to the silhouette of the dress. If you choose to wear a brighter shade of red, balance it with a tasteful style, such as a high neckline, long sleeves, or a midi skirt. It's also important to consider the couple's culture and traditions. In some cultures, such as Chinese and Indian weddings, it is highly inappropriate for guests to wear red as it is traditionally the colour of the bride's dress.

Remember, as a bridesmaid, you want to complement the bride, not upstage her. So, if you're unsure, it's always best to choose a different colour or a more muted shade of red.

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