Weddings are one of those occasions where you dress up to show your best self, but what looks good on you may not be appropriate as a wedding guest. As a wedding guest, you want to ensure that your attire is not over the top or out of the dress code.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss what is not appropriate to wear as a wedding guest. We’ll cover everything from sequined dresses to casual wear so that you can avoid any fashion faux pas at the next wedding.
Avoid Sequined Dresses
While sequined dresses are perfect for other events such as New Year’s Eve parties or a night out with friends, they are not wedding-appropriate. Weddings are about the couple getting married, and you don’t want to take the spotlight away from them.
Instead, opt for something elegant and subtle, such as a classic cocktail dress in a soft color or a chiffon dress with embellishments on the waistline.
Avoid Anything Too Casual
Even if the wedding invitation says “casual,” wearing sneakers, t-shirts, shorts, and jeans are never appropriate for a wedding. The couple getting married has taken the time to plan out every detail of their special day, and it’s only right for guests to put in the effort for dressing up.
If you’re unsure of the dress code, it’s always better to overdress than underdress for a wedding. You can never go wrong with a classic black dress or a pantsuit. These options allow you to be comfortable while still looking elegant.
Avoid Revealing Outfits
It’s always a good idea to dress modestly when attending a wedding. Even if it’s summertime, and the heat is unbearable, it’s not appropriate to wear revealing outfits to a wedding. You don’t want to attract negative attention or be remembered as the one who wore a too-short dress or a revealing top.
Instead, opt for a dress that falls below your knee or a maxi dress that keeps you covered. If you do choose to wear a short dress, ensure that it’s not too tight or revealing.
Avoid Wearing White or Ivory
The golden rule for attending a wedding is to never wear white or ivory. These colors are reserved for the bride and should not be worn by guests, no matter how good you look in them.
White and ivory are traditional wedding colors, and guests wearing them may come across as trying to upstage the bride or cause a distraction. Even if you think the bride won’t mind, it’s better to err on the side of caution by choosing a different color.
Avoid Over-the-Top Outfits
It’s always great to make a statement with your outfit, but weddings are not the time to go over the top. Wearing outfits that are too loud, too bright, or too extravagant may not be appropriate for a wedding.
You don’t want to come across as trying too hard or trying to draw too much attention to yourself. Instead, opt for something sophisticated and timeless. A well-fitted suit or a little black dress can go a long way in making a great impression.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dressing appropriately for a wedding is essential. You want to support the couple getting married by showing up to their wedding looking your best. Avoid anything too casual, revealing, or over-the-top and remember never to wear white or ivory.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that you’ll be remembered as the best-dressed guest rather than the guest who missed the mark.
FAQ
Why can’t you wear black to a wedding?
Weddings are one of the most special occasions in one’s life. It is natural for everyone to want to look their best on this auspicious day. However, when it comes to choosing the right attire, there are a lot of factors to consider, including the colour of the dress. One of the most debated topics in wedding fashion is whether or not one should wear black, and why it is not considered appropriate for this occasion.
In the past, wearing black to a wedding was frowned upon. The reason for this is rooted in traditional etiquette and superstition. For many years, black was a colour worn exclusively at funerals, and it was considered inappropriate to wear it for any other occasion. The colour black is associated with mourning and solemnity, and therefore, it was not considered appropriate for a joyful event like a wedding. It was believed that wearing black to a wedding would bring bad luck to the couple and predict a negative outcome for their married life.
In addition to the superstitions surrounding it, wearing black to a wedding was also seen as a sign of disrespect to the couple and their families. Weddings are a celebration of love, hope, and joy, and wearing black is considered to be a sombre and serious colour that doesn’t reflect the celebratory nature of the occasion. The attire should portray the excitement and happiness that one feels for the couple on their special day, and wearing black is seen as a of not taking the occasion seriously enough.
However, in recent times, the times have changed, and so has the interpretation of wedding fashion etiquette. It is now acceptable to wear black to a wedding. In fact, black is now considered a classic and elegant colour for formal occasions and has become a popular choice for weddings. Many designers and fashion experts now encourage the use of black in wedding attire, especially for evening weddings. But it is important to note that the dress should not be entirely black, and accessories such as shoes, jewelry, and bags can be colourful and festive.
The idea of not wearing black to a wedding has its roots in traditional superstition and etiquette. While it is now considered more acceptable than it used to be, it is important to choose a dress that is not entirely black and is appropriate for the occasion. The most crucial thing is to be respectful to the couple by dressing in an appropriate manner that conveys your happiness for them.
What do female guests wear to weddings?
When it comes to a wedding, one of the most important considerations for female guests is what to wear. Generally speaking, women should aim to look elegant and stylish without upstaging the bride. This can be a tricky balance to strike, but there are some general guidelines that can be helpful.
For a formal wedding, it is customary for women to wear a full-length gown. This means a dress that extends all the way to the floor and does not reveal the ankles at the hem of the dress. The fabric should be elegant, such as silk, chiffon, or velvet, but avoid anything too shiny or sparkly that can detract attention away from the bride. Colors to consider would be muted or darker colors, such as navy, maroon, or forest green, as opposed to bright or neon colors.
If the wedding is not quite as formal, a sophisticated cocktail dress can also be acceptable. The dress should be knee-length or slightly longer, and the fabric should be luxurious but not too revealing. Choose darker colors, such as black or navy, or a muted color that complements your complexion. Make sure the dress is comfortable, as you will be sitting, eating, and dancing throughout the night.
Another option for women to consider is an elegant pantsuit. This can be a great choice for older or more mature guests who prefer not to wear a dress. The pantsuit should be tailored and in a luxurious fabric, such as silk or velvet, and can come in a range of colors. The pantsuit should be paired with a dressy blouse and elegant jewelry to elevate the look.
When attending a wedding, female guests should aim to look elegant and appropriate for the occasion. A formal floor-length gown, sophisticated cocktail dress, or elegant pantsuit can all be options to consider. The most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in what you are wearing, as this will allow you to fully enjoy the celebration.
Can I wear pants to a wedding as a guest?
Yes, you absolutely can wear pants to a wedding as a guest. In fact, wearing pants or jumpsuits to weddings has become increasingly popular in recent years as people are seeking more comfortable and practical attire options. However, there are some guidelines to keep in mind when choosing your outfit.
Firstly, consider the formality of the wedding you are attending. If it is a black-tie affair, you may want to opt for a full-length dress or a dressy pantsuit. For a semi-formal or cocktail attire wedding, a chic jumpsuit or tailored pants paired with a nice blouse could be a great option. If the wedding is more casual, you can get away with wearing dressy wide-leg pants or culottes with a pretty top.
When it comes to choosing the style and cut of your pants, remember to keep in mind the weather and season. For summer weddings, light and breezy fabric like linen or silk will keep you cool and comfortable, whereas winter weddings call for thicker fabrics like wool or tweed. Choose a style that will flatter your body type and make you feel confident and comfortable.
Accessorizing your outfit is also important. Choose a pair of shoes that are comfortable but still dressy, like elegant pumps or strappy sandals. Complete your look with statement jewelry, a clutch, and a chic hairstyle. Avoid overly casual accessories like sneakers, backpacks, or sporty hats.
Wearing pants to a wedding as a guest is perfectly acceptable, as long as you follow the guidelines for the formality of the wedding and choose an outfit that is both practical and stylish. Remember to be comfortable and confident in your choice of outfit, and accessorize appropriately to create a complete look.
