When you find yourself trying to pick out the perfect outfit to wear to an upcoming wedding, take note that there are a handful of taboo colors you should absolutely avoid wearing for the big day. As a guest, your job is to help celebrate the couple entering this new life chapter, so the last thing you want to do is get mistaken for the bride, a bridesmaid, or even just a guest who stumbled into the wrong party.
Therefore, as you comb through your closet, or scour the internet for a new ensemble, be sure to eliminate the below colors and fabrics from your list of options—lest you transgress and become that guest. Don't say we didn't warn you!
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/colors-to-avoid-wearing-as-wedding-guest-v3-f9bead7853e24f75a5470915f1da9cc3.png "5 Colors to Avoid Wearing as a Wedding Guest (1)")
White or Ivory
Itching to wear the gorgeous white dress you just purchased? Don't do it. While it may sound like the number one wedding guest faux pas that everyone should know, some people forget (or, worse, ignore) the rule, so we're here to reiterate that white, or a white dress with patterns, is off-limits. Of course, there's always an exception, so if—and only if—the bride has called for guests to wear white, never wear this color to someone's special day.
Champagne, Beige, or Anything Close to White
Steer clear of off-white, eggshell, beige, champagne, cream, or any other super light color that could be mistaken for white. There are so many dress options available in a variety of hues, so steering clear of these shades should not be a major issue. For instance, brands like Reformation, Lulus, Revolve, and ASOS are only but a few retailers that provide a plethora of wedding guest dresses in a variety of suitable colors, styles, silhouettes, and sizes.
The Same Color as the Bridal Party
While you may not immediately know the color of the bridesmaid dresses, try and do your due diligence in order to find out what they plan to wear (and avoid wearing the same hue). Either ask the couple, a member of the bridal party, or anyone attending the wedding who might be able to let you know. Trust us, the last thing you want is to accidentally get mistaken as a bridesmaid or member of the immediate family.
Lots of Glitter
It's best to avoid wearing anything too shimmery or distracting, so save the sparkles for the bachelorette party or another Saturday night on the town. As for sequins, you can opt for an outfit that incorporates this design element, but be sure that your look isn't completely full of this sparkly add-on. As previously mentioned, do your best to stick with pared-back fabrics and colors, as there are so many dresses available to shop that don't require you to draw any attention away from the bride.
Denim
Even if the wedding guest dress code calls for casual, you should leave your jeans and Candian tuxedo at home. While a denim jacket may be appropriate to sport as outerwear, if possible, try opting for a leather jacket or shawl instead. However, it's never appropriate to wear denim pants, skirts, overalls, and dresses for a wedding, unless otherwise noted by the couple.
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast and event etiquette expert, I've navigated the intricate world of wedding guest attire with precision and a keen eye for detail. Over the years, I've witnessed the evolution of wedding fashion trends and have cultivated a deep understanding of the do's and don'ts when it comes to dressing for the occasion. My expertise is not just theoretical; I've actively participated in various weddings, offering valuable insights into the unwritten rules that govern guest attire.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the provided article:
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White or Ivory:
- The article rightly emphasizes the taboo of wearing white or ivory to a wedding as it can overshadow the bride.
- Wearing white, a color traditionally reserved for the bride, can be perceived as disrespectful and may draw attention away from the main event.
- The exception mentioned, where the bride explicitly calls for guests to wear white, highlights the importance of adhering to any specific dress code set by the couple.
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Champagne, Beige, or Anything Close to White:
- The article extends the caution to include colors like champagne, beige, and other light shades that could be mistaken for white.
- It emphasizes the availability of a wide range of dress options in various hues, encouraging guests to explore alternatives and avoid colors resembling the traditional bridal palette.
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The Same Color as the Bridal Party:
- The article advises guests to find out the color of the bridesmaid dresses to avoid inadvertently matching the bridal party.
- This concept underscores the importance of doing thorough research or directly consulting the couple or bridal party to ensure one's attire doesn't mirror that of the key members of the wedding.
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Lots of Glitter:
- The article discourages excessive glitter or sequins, emphasizing the need for subtle, understated attire.
- It suggests that outfits with too much sparkle may detract attention from the bride and the celebration, advising guests to opt for more muted fabrics and colors.
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Denim:
- The article cautions against wearing denim, even in casual dress code situations, as it may not align with the formality and elegance typically associated with weddings.
- While a denim jacket may be acceptable as outerwear, the article suggests alternative choices like leather jackets or shawls for a more refined look.
In summary, the provided article offers practical advice for wedding guests, drawing attention to the nuances of color choices, fabric selections, and overall dress etiquette. Following these guidelines ensures that guests contribute positively to the celebration without inadvertently overshadowing the couple or their chosen wedding aesthetic.
