When you receive a wedding invitation, it often comes with some dress code instructions. But what if it’s not specified? One of the most common questions that many wedding guests ask themselves is what color dress they should wear to a wedding. Most people would prefer not to appear underdressed or overdressed, but they do not want to overshadow the bride.
Colors to Avoid
To start off, let’s talk about the colors that you should avoid wearing at a wedding. The most obvious two colors are black and white. White is traditionally worn by the bride to symbolize purity and innocence, so you should avoid wearing anything remotely white, including ivory, cream, or eggshell.
Black is typically associated with mourning and funerals, so unless the invitation specifically calls for it, it is not appropriate. Wearing black can also be seen as a way of stealing the attention and the bride’s thunder on her special day.
Colors to Consider
When it comes to choosing the right color for a wedding dress, you want to find a color that fits the theme of the wedding and is appropriate for the season. Most couples will choose a color scheme for their wedding, so consider this when selecting your dress.
Pastel colors are always a safe option for wedding guests. Colors like light pink, lavender, baby blue, and mint green are beautiful, and they create a romantic and elegant look. They are also perfect for daytime weddings, outdoor weddings, and spring or summer weddings.
Jewel tones are also an excellent choice. These colors are rich and luxurious and include shades like emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, and amethyst purple. They also work well for autumn or winter weddings.
Neutral colors like beige, grey, and navy blue are versatile options that can work throughout the year, and they are perfect for evening weddings.
Consider the Dress Material
When choosing the color of your dress for a wedding, the material is also crucial. For instance, a black velvet dress may be entirely acceptable for a winter wedding, while a cotton sundress may be too casual.
If you are going for a summer dress, consider wearing cotton, chiffon, silk, or linen. These materials are comfortable and breathable, perfect for hot weather.
For an evening wedding, opt for more luxurious materials like velvet, silk, or lace. Dresses made of these materials are also suitable for colder months.
Accessories
The accessories you choose to pair with your dress can make or break your outfit. When wearing a dress with a bright color, opt for neutral accessories. Nude heels, a clutch, and simple jewelry pieces are perfect for completing a bold-colored outfit.
When wearing a neutral dress, opt for statement accessories to add some interest. A chunky necklace, colorful heels, or a bold bracelet are perfect for spicing up a basic dress.
Conclusion
When choosing the right color for a wedding guest dress, there are a few things to keep in mind. Avoid black and white, consider the time of year and the theme of the wedding, and choose the right accessories to complete your look. Remember that weddings are all about celebrating the couple, so avoid stealing the show with an overly bold outfit. The most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in your dress, so you can enjoy the wedding without worrying about your attire.
FAQ
Should a guest wear the same color as the wedding party?
Weddings are special events that require a certain level of formality and decorum. Guests are often faced with the dilemma of choosing what to wear, and oftentimes, confusion arises when it comes to whether they should wear the same color as the wedding party or not. However, it is important to note that wedding colors are primarily reserved for the wedding party, and guests should not try to match their attire with them.
The colors chosen by the bride and groom for their wedding party are meant to create a coordinated and cohesive look. Using similar or matching colors between the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and the couple themselves is a great way to bring about a sense of unity and elegance. It’s like having a stage show, where the actors wear the same outfit to identify themselves as being in the cast.
Guests, on the other hand, do not have any such obligation. They are not in the wedding party, and they should not try to match the colors chosen for the wedding party. Doing so may create a disruption in the aesthetic and feel that the couple was hoping to achieve with their wedding. It’s important as a guest to dress respectfully and appropriately, while also allowing the bridal party to shine and stand out in their chosen colors.
That being said, dressing appropriately for a wedding can be a bit of a challenge. However, there are a few tips and guidelines that can help guests choose an appropriate outfit. Guests should aim to dress in a way that is respectful of the bride and groom, but also comfortable. This may involve wearing something formal or semi-formal, but it doesn’t mean that guests should try to outshine the wedding party.
While it may seem like a good idea to try and match the wedding party colors as a guest, it is not necessary nor encouraged. The wedding colors are for the wedding party, and guests should aim to dress respectfully and appropriately while allowing the bridal party to shine in their chosen colors. the focus should be on celebrating the bride and groom and their special day, rather than trying to coordinate with their wedding party.
What color is not appropriate for a wedding?
When it comes to choosing the perfect outfit for a wedding, the color plays a major role. While there are a wide variety of colors that are suitable for weddings, there are some colors that are not appropriate. The most important rule to remember when attending a wedding is to avoid wearing white. This is because, in Western cultures, wearing white is a color that is traditionally reserved for the bride.
Other shades that should be avoided include off-white, eggshell, beige, champagne, and cream. These colors are considered to be too similar to white and should be avoided out of respect for the bride. Additionally, it is recommended that guests avoid wearing black, as it is often associated with funerals and can be seen as a symbol of mourning.
While these colors may be off-limits, there are still many other options available. Pastel colors, such as lavender, mint, and blush, are a popular choice for wedding guests. Bright colors such as fuchsia, emerald green, and cobalt blue are also great options for those looking to add a pop of color to their outfit.
The key is to choose a color that complements the wedding theme and style. If in doubt, it’s always best to consult the bride or groom before choosing an outfit. By taking the dress code seriously and selecting the appropriate color, guests can ensure that they look elegant and stylish while also respecting the newlyweds on their special day.
Is it wrong to wear the same color as the bridesmaids to a wedding?
When attending a wedding, it can be challenging to choose the perfect outfit that is not only appropriate but also stylish. One of the biggest concerns for guests is choosing the right color scheme. Many guests feel hesitant to wear the same color as the bridesmaids as they don’t want to stand out or be mistaken for the bridal party. However, as per the etiquette expert Lizzie Post, there is no issue with wearing the same color as the bridesmaids.
According to Lizzie Post, the host of the podcast Awesome Etiquette from the Emily Post Institute, no guest should ever feel embarrassed if they happen to wear the same color as the bridesmaids. There is no etiquette rule that prohibits guests from wearing the same color as the bridal party. So if you have received a wedding invitation and are not sure about the color of the bridesmaids’ dresses, don’t worry. You can choose any color that complements the wedding’s theme, style, and venue.
That said, if you’re concerned about wearing the same color as the bridesmaids, it’s best to ask the bride in advance about the wedding’s color palette. Nowadays, many brides choose mix-and-match bridesmaid dresses in different shades of a particular color, making it easier for guests to select the right color scheme. The bride may also have specific dress code guidelines that she wants guests to follow, which may help you decide on your outfit.
It is not wrong to wear the same color as the bridesmaids to a wedding. It’s essential to choose an outfit that is appropriate, comfortable, and stylish while keeping the wedding’s theme and the bride’s preferences in mind. However, if you’re still unsure about what to wear, don’t hesitate to reach out to the bride or wedding planner for guidance.
