What to Wear as a Wedding Guest — Do’s and Don’ts

Getting dressed for a regular party can spark enough anxiety; a wedding adds that much more pressure. For your jewels, classic pieces like pearl bracelets are always appropriate, but should you wear more? Less? Shopping in your closet saves time and allows you to keep up with slow fashion principles that are good for your wallet and the planet. But if you feel like you have nothing to wear, read on to learn the do’s and don’ts of wedding guest apparel.

Do Understand the Dress Code

The dress code is usually made clear and ‘black tie’ or ‘casual’ is stated right on the invite. If not, don’t be afraid to ask. You may inquire directly to the couple or ask a member of the wedding party or close friends. Once you understand the fundamentals, you can feel confident about choosing the right outfit right down to the perfect pearl earrings.

Don’t Underdress

One thing you never want to do is show up looking like you stumbled into the wrong party. The rule of thumb with weddings is when in doubt, go more formal rather than less. Dress to impress and to show respect. Women always looks fabulous in a gown and men can’t go wrong with a tux. For casual daytime weddings, natural hair and makeup is fine, but a pretty sundress paired with jewelry featuring pretty gemstones or tailored pants and a chic top are a must. The minimum for men is khakis and a polo.

Do Consider the Location

Your outfit and your shoes in particular will be very different for a fancy hotel than for the beach. Definitely consider the dress code, but also use common sense when deciding between stilettos and sandals.

Don’t Ignore the Color Palette

You don’t want to be mistaken for a member of the wedding party. Usually the invitation gives a clue as to the color scheme, but it’s never wrong to inquire. Showing interest in the details will come across as caring, not nosy.

Do Check the Weather

You may be dying to wear an adorable short, flirty gown, but Mother Nature may have other plans. Besides weather like rain and snow, keep the wind in mind. The last thing you want is flash your undies to a few hundred strangers. Dress in layers even if the event is indoors because the venue could be blasting the A/C. You want to have a good time; dress in a way that the day won’t be ruined by getting stuck under a vent for a 6-course meal.

Don’t Wear White

This is another common sense one, but also beware of wearing any pale colors, including but not limited to blush, champagne, tan, and gold. Many brides have branched out from traditional white and ivory, and you do not want to be the one in an awkwardly matched gown.

Do Ask Around

Asking your friends about their prospective outfits is a great way to get insights into what you might wear. Just like not sporting white, you’d hate to show up and discover you’re part of the Impromptu Blue Woman Crew.