Hi friends! Happy Monday! A couple of weeks ago, I attended my friend’s Nathalie and John’s wedding in St. Augustine, Florida. It got me thinking that it mightbe fun to share some of my do’s and don’t’s when it comes to wedding guest attire. I know I’ve definitely been stumped before! It’s tough, so read on to find out what I’ve learned over the last few years ofattending countless friends’ weddings to hopefully make it a little easier on you:
When I’m shopping for whatto wear to a friend’s or family member’s wedding, I look at the date of the wedding first and the attire indicated on the invitation second [see firstDON’T below for more on that!].
The date of the wedding helps todetermine what colorsto filter out of my search options when looking at online retailers.If the wedding is on July 7th, I would filter out the black, dark red and plum options. Similarly, if the wedding is November 27th,I’d steer clear of light pink, yellow and other pastel colors.
FYI:Embellished dresses are okay to wear to a wedding, but it’s definitely more appropriate for formal evening weddings during the Winter months.
For Nathalie and John’s wedding, Iopted for a light pink fit & flare dress because it’s been a rather warm winter here in Florida. Honestly, itfeels a lot like Spring. I did choose to bring a subtlybright, olive green coat to pay homage to the Winter season. It was also a great way to beprepared for the cooler temperatures at the end of the evening. So, it’s okay to use your own judgement, too!
Choose a pair of comfortable heelsto wear to the wedding ceremony, but don’t forget to bring a pair of nice sandals to slip onat the reception. If it’s a more casual wedding, a newer pair of flip flop sandals would be okay. However, if it’s a more formal wedding, I’d recommend a nicer, dressier pair of flat sandals or neutral flats.
One of my biggest fears is showing up to a wedding looking like I belong in the bridal party. This, actually, almost happened in September when I was invited to my friend, and fellow blogger, Katey of Chronicles of Frivolity’s wedding. I sent her a link to the dress I was considering wearing. It was a pretty champagne color, and thought it’d be a great dress to have for multiple occasions. Turns out, Katey laughed and said that the dress I was considering wasTHE.SAME. dress as her bridesmaids, except her bridesmaids were wearing black. I cannot even explain how mortified I would have been if I hadn’t asked her. What if I liked it in black? What if I wasn’t close enough to her?
If you’re not super close to the bride, you can always ask someone who is what the colors of the wedding are, specifically the bridesmaids dresses. Do your best to steer clear of those colors. Knowingthe material of the dresses is helpful, as well. Try and find out as much as you can, and don’t be shy if you feel like you don’t have a way of finding it out! The girls in the wedding party would surely not mind a harmless Facebook message about what to wear to their dear friend’s wedding. I know I wouldn’t! They want it to be the best day ever so go ahead and send along a quick inquiry!Their names are typically shared on the couple’s wedding website, so reference that if you’re not sure who they are.
During the work week, it’s a shame thatyour statement jewelry is at home collecting dust.A weekend weddingcelebration is a greatopportunityfor you to pull out your favorites and show off a little bit!We all know there are some cringe-worthy ways to stand out at a wedding [i.e. showing too much skin, wearing a dress that’s too short or too tight], butstatement jewelryis the most appropriate way without taking eyes off the bride!
STYLE TIP >> Never wear a watch to a wedding.
Sadly, I’ve made this mistake before.
As you can see in the photo’s above, I wore these fun statement earrings which perfectly pulled together my dress and coat. I wore this bracelet to the wedding, which isn’t pictured in today’s post, but I highly recommend you consider buying for occasions such as this.
If you’re really not sure what to wear, even after investigating the type of wedding and considering the season, just remember that it’s better to be overdressed than under dressed!Being overdressed is more appropriate AND, to be honest, it will draw people to you making it easy to make new friends, allowing you to feel a little more comfortable whereas being underdressed would do the opposite. So, in general, it’s a good rule of thumb!
______________
The invitation typically indicates what attire is appropriate for the type of wedding the bride, groom and families are planning, so be sure to read it carefully. This article is great and detailswhat each indication means in regard to attire. Be sure to show your respect for the occasion by following the guidelines of that dress code.
For anyone who has been attending weddings in their recent past, this should be a given, but this is important to know for anyone who mayjust now getting to the age where you’re friends are getting married. White is reserved for the BRIDE only. This goes for wedding showers and rehearsal dinners, as well.
Here are some great dress options for a wedding guest to opt to wear in the upcoming Spring season, all of which are NOT white:
Staying on the conservative side when attending a wedding is smart. If you’re wearing a short dress, be sure that it’s no shorter than an inch above your knee. It’s okay for your dress to be tailored to fit you, but be sure you’re dress is not too tight. Make sure that your cleavage is tasteful, if any. If you’re wanting to show off a particular area, such as your back with a low back dress or your torso with a very small or thin cutout, it’s okay but keep it to one area. For example,if you have a low back dress, be sure that the neckline is high and there isn’t a dramatic slit in the front. Remember, this day is not about you so don’t dress like it’s YOUR night.
As I’vealready mentioned, there are a few ways youcan steal the show from the bride. Be sure to steer clear of white, showing too much skin, wearing a tight or short dressbut another tip would be to maintain appropriate behavior. Be sure to enjoy yourself, socialize and have a great time but put a limit on the number of alcoholic beverages you have.
As a wedding guest, you don’t want to steal the show but you do want to put your best foot forward by looking nice and being prepared for anything. I would suggest styling your hair, especially if you don’t normally do too much to it. Also, wear lipstick or lip glossand get your nails done before the event.Also, be sure to carry a medium-sizedclutch or bag that is not only structured,butappropriate for a weddingto carryall the little extra’s you may need throughout the evening. Some ‘little extra’s’ include bandaids, breath mints, cash and a pair of sandals [see the second DO for some options!]. And, finally, before you head home, be sure to give the bride and groom a hug and express your sincere gratitude for being invited to share their special evening with them!
Hope this post was helpful! Let me know if you have any questions and I can incorporate those answers into the post! xo.
FAQs
What is not appropriate to wear as a wedding guest? ›
Ditch your everyday jeans and tee. Even if the wedding initiation says “casual”, wearing sneakers, t-shirts, shorts, and jeans are never appropriate for a wedding. Wear dress pants and tuck in a button down shirt for casual. If the wedding is more formal, then step it up a notch with a tie, dress shoes and vest/jacket.
What is acceptable wedding guest attire? ›Simply put, women should wear a formal, floor-length evening gown—no exceptions—with jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch. Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, a vest, a bow tie, white or gray gloves, and formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords. Photo by Hugo Coelho Photography.
What colors do you not wear to a wedding as a guest? ›- White or Ivory. Itching to wear the gorgeous white dress you just purchased? ...
- Champagne, Beige, or Anything Close to White. ...
- The Same Color as the Bridal Party. ...
- Lots of Glitter. ...
- Denim.
A good rule of thumb is not to wear anything sheer, or with rips and holes, even if they're intentional. A tasteful and very small hole may be alright, but you have to consider your audience. Cleavage happens, but don't make it the focal point of your outfit.
Why can't you wear red to a wedding? ›“Tradition dictates guests avoid wearing red out of fear that it could take attention away from the happy couple,” explains Hurwitz. “Visually, it's quite bold. In a photo, your eye is immediately drawn to the color, especially if it's next to neutrals like white, black, gray, or beige.”
What should a female guest not wear to a wedding? ›It doesn't matter if the dress code requests "casual" attire, jeans, T-shirts, shorts, flip-flops, and sneakers are never appropriate to wear as a wedding guest. Show respect for the bride and groom by dressing formally.
Do you have to wear heels to a wedding as a guest? ›A wedding doesn't require towering heels. For those who want something smaller, these kitten heel shoes are a stylish and chic way to go. They also come in black for an even more versatile option.
Should you wear nylons to a wedding? ›The truth is, as the mother-of-the-groom, you can wear whatever you want to the ceremony. While it's not required to wear pantyhose to weddings, we highly encourage you to look and feel fabulous for the occasion. Thigh highs are a glamorous way to help you reach this goal.
Can I wear black to a wedding as a guest? ›Yes, it can absolutely be appropriate to wear black to a wedding, and it isn't typically considered disrespectful (although there are exceptions). While black attire was traditionally associated with mourning and funerals, times are changing — and so are fashion rules!
Is it okay to wear a long dress to a wedding? ›For a more formal wedding, it is typically expected that female guests wear a long dress. But instead of breaking out the gown you wore to prom, try wearing a more appropriate evening gown. If the wedding is during the day, a pretty maxi dress should do the trick.
Is it OK to go braless at a wedding? ›
You can go braless, and let the girls do their thing. Only go braless with a corset-less gown if this is something you are comfortable with and do regularly. If you normally wear a bra, and your gown doesn't have a corset, we recommend finding a bra that works with your gown.
Should you go braless in wedding dress? ›If your cup size is small enough, you may be able to get away without a bra, while brides with larger busts might feel more comfortable wearing one. "Sewn-in cups or built-in corsets can be sufficient for support for larger chested brides if they're done well," Brickman adds.
Is it rude to overdress for a wedding? ›DON'T: Overdress. “When figuring out what to wear to a wedding, remember that it's rude to look more formal than the bride, and if the wedding is casual, her dress might be on the more simple side,” she explains. So keep the embellishment and fancy details to a minimum!
Is it rude to wear black to a wedding? ›"Guests can absolutely wear black to a wedding," says Shawne Jacobs, President and Creative Director of Anne Barge. "In the past, black was a color typically worn for mourning. However, over the years couples have been more open to breaking the rules and opting for non-traditional, modern wedding dress codes.
Can you wear pink to a wedding? ›Neutral shades are timeless options that won't detract from the wedding's formal atmosphere. For a more colorful look, consider wearing shades of blue, lavender, or pink to show that you're in the celebratory spirit. If the wedding is in a tropical destination, opt for colors like yellow, orange, and green.
Can you wear floral white to a wedding? ›White colour will serve as the ideal base for any floral or bright prints you may be too afraid to wear as a whole. It will provide a pleasant break amidst a sea of pattern and print and will be discreet enough not to have red flashing in any bride's eyes.
What is the number one rule as a wedding guest? ›Unbreakable Rule #1: RSVP Promptly
Prompt RSVPs are important because wedding venues and vendors require a firm headcount ahead of time. Plus, there's that all-important seating chart to consider. Don't make your bride and groom wonder if you'll be there, RSVP "yes" or "no" as soon as you can.
Details that may seem minor, like a venue's parking situation or the number of restrooms, can have a big impact on how guests view your big day. According to the WeddingWire study, 47 percent of guests said the venue was one of the biggest things they notice when they attend a wedding.
Is it rude to go to a wedding without a gift? ›Whether it's a 30th birthday or a wedding, if you're invited to a celebratory party, it's customary for a guest to bring a gift. But if you don't bring one, you aren't breaking any laws. More than likely, you won't be called out for your social faux pas, but it will probably be noticed.
Can a female guest wear pants to a wedding? ›Can you wear pants to a wedding? Yes, you absolutely can. If you don't like dresses or your legs are not your best feature, pants are totally acceptable, so long as you keep the time of day and venue in mind.
Should a female guest wear black to a wedding? ›
To recap: as long as it's not considered culturally inappropriate or against the dress code, you can wear black to a wedding. Depending on where the couple is exchanging vows, which season their special day is taking place in, and what time of day everything begins, black may or may not be your best color option.
Can you wear open toed shoes to a formal wedding? ›Of course a closed-toe wedding shoe is recommended for cooler climates; however, for warmer wedding days, open-toe shoes are the norm. For black-tie weddings, closed-toe shoes are little more expected, but not a must. I recommend keeping an open mind on closed-toe and open-toe shoes.
What flat shoes can you wear with a dress? ›The ballet flats are the top flat shoes to wear with dresses and they have wider width to pair with dresses for a sophisticated look. The ballet flats can be paired with dresses to give you a chick look. These flat shoes are also comfortable to walk for standing all day.
Should I get my makeup done as a wedding guest? ›While some people enjoy putting on makeup, especially for special events like a wedding, it isn't a requirement to look and feel your best. If you feel happy and confident in a touch of concealer and a tinted lip balm, go for it! Let your natural beauty shine through.
Can you wear ankle boots as a wedding guest? ›CAN YOU WEAR ANKLE BOOTS TO A WEDDING? Yes, ankle boots are a stylish option to wear to a wedding with casual dresses and black dresses alike. Unlike knee-length boots or more heavy-duty snow boots, some ankle boots are formal enough for most ceremonies.
What is dressy casual for a woman? ›"This is where you're thinking more light colors and casual materials," she says, versus fancier fare like satin and sparkles. You can wear things that are a little more flowy, and even bold prints are acceptable. "That really cute sundress or maxi dress is a great example of dressy casual,” Swann says.
What clothes are smart casual? ›What does it mean and what is the Smart Casual Dress Code? It is a style somewhere between formal and casual. Not a smart look with a jacket and tie then, but also not an overly sporty outfit with trainers, t-shirt and jeans. Smart Casual means 'simple, yet elegant'.
What is cocktail dress code for ladies? ›A cocktail dress for women is typically a semi-formal dress that is worn for evening events like cocktail parties, weddings, or other special occasions. Party dresses in fabrics like silk, lace, or chiffon are classic choices for cocktail events as it is knee-length or shorter.
Why do people not wear nylons anymore? ›It turns out pantyhose sales have been sagging for the last two decades, because of self-tanner, open-toed shoes, women wearing pants more often, and, generally, more casual dress in the workplace. Millennials don't own pantyhose. One article says, "Many people associate sheer with grandma."
Should I wear nylons with a cocktail dress? ›#1. Go without. If you don't care for pantyhose and you're comfortable going without, that's perfectly fine for all but the most conservative of semi-formal events. (If it's a business event, you may want to ask around and see what the other women are going to wear to be sure you look appropriate.)
Is it considered tacky to wear nylons with sandals? ›
Yes, you can wear pantyhose, so long as the shoe that you are wearing has a closed or peep toe. If it is a true sandal with an open toe, I will stay clear of pantyhose.
How much money should you give at a wedding? ›They suggest the following breakdown: coworkers or distant relatives should spend 50 to 75 dollars. Friends or relatives, 75 to 100 dollars. For close friends, family, or if you are in the wedding party, you should spend 100 to 150 dollars—or more.
Can you wear a short dress to a wedding? ›Is it inappropriate to wear a mini dress to a wedding? Definitely not! Mini dresses are appropriate for casual, cocktail, and semi-formal weddings.
Can you wear sequins to a wedding? ›Can I Wear a Sequin Dress to a Wedding? You most definitely can. As long as the dress code is cocktail or formal and the guests are expected to dress up. Also make sure to not wear white sequin and outstand the bride!
What is proper attire for a 4pm wedding? ›If the event is not for a beach wedding, but some hours after lunchtime, the typical dress-code of an afternoon wedding is semi-formal. Consequently, it calls for cocktail dresses, LBDs or modest party dresses. If the invitation asks for formal attire, go for a cocktail dress or a dressy LBD.
Is it OK to wear a maxi dress as a wedding guest? ›Wearing a maxi dress can be the best choice if you're not quite sure of the dress code or formality for the wedding. These long dresses are chameleons and can look just as good at laid-back outdoor weddings and destination weddings, as they do with a good dose of sparkly jewelry for semi-formal and formal events.
Is it OK to wear a knee length dress to a wedding as a guest? ›"A knee-length dress, midi dress, or even a flowy maxi dress are all appropriate; I also love the idea of a jumpsuit, suit or a patterned suit or a tuxedo with a standard necktie rather than a bow tie."
Is it inappropriate to show skin at a wedding? ›Summer calls for showing a little skin, but don't go over the top. This is similar to the rule about going too bold. You don't want to be a distraction from the bride on her big day. If you find yourself in between a few dress options, it's safer to err on the side of modesty when it comes to wedding attire.
What is it called when you go braless? ›Terms. The word braless was first used circa 1965. Other terms for going braless include breast freedom, top freedom, and bra freedom. Activists advocating going braless have referred to protests as a "bra-cott".
Is going braless good for your breasts? ›Many factors can play a part in your breast cancer risk, but going braless isn't one of them. The bottom line: "Generally speaking, wearing or not wearing a bra really won't have a significant impact on your overall health," Dr. Sahni said, adding that it's entirely a personal choice.
What should a female guest wear to a wedding? ›
Women can wear below-the-knee dresses, slip dresses, a dressy skirt and top, or an elegant pantsuit (styled with heels, nice wedges, or formal flats). As for men, opt for a dress shirt and slacks, with the option to wear a tie.
Is it better to be over dressed or under dressed for a wedding? ›Don't go *too* casual.
"If you have to choose between being underdressed or overdressed, it's always better to be overdressed," Swann explains. But she also insists that if you are truly baffled by the dress code and have no idea what to wear, you should absolutely reach out for help.
The wedding garter is a piece of bridal lingerie worn under the wedding dress. During the reception, the groom will remove the garter from underneath the bride's gown (with his hands or teeth) and toss it into the crowd. The garter toss is very similar to the bouquet toss.
Is cleavage OK as a wedding guest? ›As a general rule of thumb, a couple inches of “natural” cleavage—you'll have to leave the push-up bra at home for this one! —won't hurt anyone. As for length and sheerness, keep in mind that the ceremony might be held in a place of worship, where you might be asked to adhere to certain rules.
What do you wear over your shoulders at a wedding? ›Similar to a scarf, a pashmina is a light wrap that you can place over your shoulders to keep warm. And since this garment is made of lightweight, breathable fabric, it's the perfect accompaniment to spring or summer festivities with mild temperatures.
Can I wear sparkly shoes to a wedding? ›For brides and wedding guests that ask “can I wear sparkly shoes to a wedding” wonder no more. Yes! Sparkling shoes often add interest, joy and energy to an ensemble, all of which are great attributes for weddings.
Is it OK to wear black to a wedding? ›Yes, it can absolutely be appropriate to wear black to a wedding, and it isn't typically considered disrespectful (although there are exceptions). While black attire was traditionally associated with mourning and funerals, times are changing — and so are fashion rules!
Why can't you wear black to a wedding? ›"Guests can absolutely wear black to a wedding," says Shawne Jacobs, President and Creative Director of Anne Barge. "In the past, black was a color typically worn for mourning. However, over the years couples have been more open to breaking the rules and opting for non-traditional, modern wedding dress codes.
What to wear as wedding guest if you don t like dresses? ›Trouser and short suits
A sharp trouser suit isn't just for the office – a relaxed cut suit in a satin finish in a bold block colour says party time. A trouser suit can look very glam when worn buttoned up with nothing underneath, but if you'd like to wear it open them pop a bralette or thin cami underneath.
Is it inappropriate to wear a mini dress to a wedding? Definitely not! Mini dresses are appropriate for casual, cocktail, and semi-formal weddings.
What is the average cash gift for a wedding? ›
While the amount you should gift a couple depends on a number of factors, data from The Knot reveals that U.S. wedding guests spend an average of $160 on cash gifts. "It's common to give anywhere from $100 to $1,000.
Can I wear a black and white floral dress to a wedding? ›“How about a black-and-white dress?” We advise against wearing white to weddings, but a printed dress with a hint of white or ivory is definitely approved. A black-and-white dress is a classic choice, as long as the pattern isn't too distracting.
Can you wear black floral to a wedding? ›As a general rule, "wearing black is totally acceptable, as the hue is very versatile," Sabatino affirms. However, you should avoid wearing white unless you are told otherwise.
Is it OK to wear black to a summer wedding? ›Is a black dress appropriate for a summer wedding? Our resounding answer is yes! When you style black right, you certainly can! A black dress or skirt is effortlessly elegant.
Can I wear a blouse and pants to a wedding? ›Totally fine! Just make sure they're dressy enough for the nuptials. Start with tailored trousers and a polished blouse, or make things easy for yourself by grabbing a matching blazer. Pant suits are a great way to go, or you can coordinate the color of your pants with your top, like this monochrome moment.
Can a woman wear pants to a wedding? ›Can you wear pants to a wedding? Yes, you absolutely can. If you don't like dresses or your legs are not your best feature, pants are totally acceptable, so long as you keep the time of day and venue in mind.
Do you bring a purse to a wedding? ›Cocktail or Semi-Formal
Cocktail and semi-formal attire go hand in hand, bag-wise. Both dress codes allow for a bit more practicality in terms of the sizes you can carry. In contrast to white-tie, black-tie, and formal attire, you can opt for a slightly bigger bag as opposed to carrying a small clutch.
"A knee-length dress, midi dress, or even a flowy maxi dress are all appropriate; I also love the idea of a jumpsuit, suit or a patterned suit or a tuxedo with a standard necktie rather than a bow tie."