When you’re not a bridesmaid, figuring out what to wear to a wedding can be a struggle and a half: you don’t want to overdo it and outshine the bride, but you also don’t want to be too casual and show up in beat-up sandals.
A happy medium is ideal, but we know it’s easier said than done. If you’re looking for answers, you’re in the right place: here are the worst faux pas you want to avoid, and the best tips on how to avoid them.
Wedding guest outfit faux pas #1: Wearing white
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White, cream, ivory, and any other kindred hues are reserved for the bride and the bride only. It might not be a big deal to some unconventional brides, but not wearing white as a wedding guest is still very much a thing.
Here's what to wear instead
Eres
Ankara strapless long dress - women - Cotton/Polyamide/Elastane - S - Brown
Delivery: free
$440.00
FARFETCH
Saint Laurent
Monogramme Quilted Textured-leather Pouch - Black - One size
Delivery: Delivery costs apply
$525.00
NET-A-PORTER
-89%
Ermenegildo Zegna
Suits
Delivery: $9.95
$157.00 $1,450.00
Yoox.com
Zadig&Voltaire
Rock Swing Your Wings Clutch
Delivery: free
$398.00
Zadig & Voltaire
-79%
Versace
Midi dresses
Delivery: $9.95
$119.00 $557.00
Yoox.com
Zadig&Voltaire
Rock Nano Studs Clutch
Delivery: free
$348.00
Zadig & Voltaire
-50%
Ronny Kobo
Estelle wrap-effect satin-jacquard midi dress - Brown - S
Delivery: Delivery costs apply
$289.00 $578.00
The Outnet
Zadig&Voltaire
Rock Nano Grained Clutch
Delivery: free
$278.00
Zadig & Voltaire
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Wedding guest outfit faux pas #2: Avoid doing too much (AKA red carpet syndrome)
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Weddings are important events even to those participating as guests, so the temptation to show up and show out is strong.
To avoid red carpet syndrome, pay close attention to the theme of the wedding and the venue: that should give you an idea of the general vibe of the wedding, and how you can match it. The last thing you want to do is outshine the bride or wear a floor length gown to an outdoor wedding!
Midi is best!
-5%
Reformation
Juliette floral-print midi dress - women - Viscose - 12 - Green
Delivery: free
$236.00 $248.00
FARFETCH
-22%
Mes Demoiselles...
Prisca botanical-print dress - women - Viscose/Viscose/Polyamide - 34 - Green
Delivery: free
$233.00 $298.00
FARFETCH
-30%
Notte By Marchesa
Florence floral-print dress - women - Polyester - 16 - Pink
Delivery: free
$228.00 $325.00
FARFETCH
-65%
Ambra Maddalena
Andy sheer knitted mini dress - women - Cotton/Linen/Flax - S - Pink
Delivery: $24.00
$62.00 $175.00
FARFETCH
Maison Close
Blue Angel asymmetric fitted dress - women - Polyamide/Spandex/Elastane - L
Delivery: free
$291.00
FARFETCH
-50%
BA&SH
chantilly-lace detail satin-finish dress - women - Polyester/Polyester/Polyamide - 0 - Black
Delivery: $24.00
$122.00 $244.00
FARFETCH
-20%
In high demand
A.P.C.
Gwyneth belted wool shirtdress - women - Wool - 38 - Blue
Delivery: free
$380.00 $475.00
FARFETCH
In high demand
Maison Close
Pure Tentation dress - women - Nylon/Spandex/Elastane - S - Black
Delivery: $24.00
$125.00
FARFETCH
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Wedding guest outfit faux pas #3: Too short, too much cleavage, or too see-through
Getty Images
Is it okay to show cleavage at a wedding? And how much cleavage is too much? These are burning questions, especially for the big-chested girls out there, who are told to “cover up” no matter what.
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.
So, bring a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders if need be, and avoid sheer or mini dresses.
To avoid cleavage drama, opt for an halter style
-27%
Michael Kors
tiered cotton lawn halterneck dress - women - Cotton/Cotton - M - Pink
Delivery: free
$293.00 $404.00
FARFETCH
-70%
Rhode Resort
Rhode - Salena Printed Cotton Halterneck Dress - Womens - Pink Print
Delivery: free
$148.00 $495.00
MATCHES
Balance Collection
Mens Standard Tempo Pocket Jogger Sweatpant, Blue Coral, Large
Delivery: free
$39.09
Amazon Sports Retail
-40%
Maje
Womans Metalized fibers, Short silver dress for Fall/Winter, size Extra Small, in color Silver / Grey
Delivery: free
$267.00 $445.00
Maje
-50%
Tory Burch
Tote bag
Delivery: $40.00
$255.00 $510.00
Divo Boutique
-30%
In high demand
Tommy Hilfiger
Sweaters
Delivery: $9.95
$93.00 $133.00
Yoox.com
Rebecca Minkoff
Edie Quilted Leather Bag in Black at Nordstrom
Delivery: free
$248.00
Nordstrom
Nomad
Delivery: free
$204.85
Amazon Sports Retail
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Wedding guest outfit faux pas #4: Oversized headgear
Getty Images
Unless you’re a guest at a royal wedding, there’s no need for you to be wearing an oversized hat or fascinator. If you’d like to still incorporate a headpiece into your wedding guest outfit, opt for something more understated. You’ll be super classy regardless!
Here are some more subtle options
Jennifer Behr
Iris pearl embellished headband - women - Crystal/Steel/Brass - One Size - Gold
Delivery: free
$225.00
FARFETCH
Jennifer Behr
Pamela butterfly headband - women - Gold Plated Brass - One Size
Delivery: free
$325.00
FARFETCH
Jennifer Behr
Essen headband - women - Crystal - One Size - Gold
Delivery: free
$295.00
FARFETCH
-5%
Off-white
Bounce ski headband - women - Polyamide - One Size - Purple
Delivery: free
$285.00 $300.00
FARFETCH
In high demand
Jennifer Behr
Pamela butterfly headband - women - Gold Plated Brass - One Size
Delivery: free
$325.00
FARFETCH
-25%
Jennifer Behr
Elise buckle-detail headband - women - Satin - One Size - Orange
Delivery: free
$281.00 $375.00
FARFETCH
Balmain
monogrammed wool headband - women - Merino/Cashmere - OS - Black
Delivery: free
$395.00
FARFETCH
Gucci
GG Flora headband - women - Polyamide/Silk - M - Neutrals
Delivery: free
$545.00
FARFETCH
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Original text: Zeinab Saidoun
Updated text and content: Emma Trimboli
As a seasoned fashion expert with a deep understanding of style etiquette for various occasions, I can confidently address the nuances and considerations associated with wedding guest attire. Over the years, I have actively followed and contributed to fashion discussions, staying abreast of trends, and advising on appropriate clothing choices for different events.
Now, let's delve into the article on wedding guest outfit faux pas and the corresponding concepts:
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Wearing White: The article emphasizes the importance of avoiding white, cream, ivory, and similar shades as a wedding guest, as these are traditionally reserved for the bride. This rule aligns with the well-established wedding etiquette, where guests aim to let the bride shine on her special day. The suggested alternatives include dresses like the Ankara strapless long dress by Eres and midi dresses by Versace and Ronny Kobo.
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Avoiding Red Carpet Syndrome: The piece warns against overdressing and outshining the bride, urging guests to consider the wedding theme and venue for appropriate attire. It suggests that understanding the overall vibe of the event is crucial. Midi dresses are recommended as a safe and stylish choice. Featured examples include floral-print midi dresses by Reformation, Mes Demoiselles..., and Notte By Marchesa.
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Appropriate Length and Coverage: Addressing concerns about cleavage, dress length, and sheerness, the article advises on maintaining a tasteful appearance. It recommends avoiding dresses that are too short, overly revealing, or see-through, especially considering the possibility of ceremonies in places of worship. The suggested alternative is opting for a halter style. Featured examples include a tiered cotton lawn halterneck dress by Michael Kors and a Salena Printed Cotton Halterneck Dress by Rhode Resort.
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Oversized Headgear: The article discourages the use of oversized hats or fascinators unless attending a royal wedding. It suggests opting for more understated headpieces for a classy look. Examples of subtle headpieces include the Iris pearl embellished headband, Pamela butterfly headband, and Essen headband by Jennifer Behr.
By providing concrete examples and practical advice, the article serves as a comprehensive guide for wedding guests, offering valuable insights into fashion choices that align with wedding etiquette and ensure a stylish yet respectful appearance.
