Is it Still a ‘No-No’ to Wear White to a Wedding?
When you get invited to a wedding, one of the first questions you may ask yourself is ‘but, what will I wear?’. Your wardrobe will depend of course on how formal the wedding will be, which is usually indicated on your invitation and while traditionally, guests were not supposed to wear white or black to the event – in recent years, the little black dress has become a wedding season staple. So, this begs the question: is it now okay to wear white to a wedding?
Some etiquette experts have come out to say that in some cases it is acceptable to wear white. For instance, if your dress has a white lace overlay on top of a brighter colour, if your dress is a knee length sheath dress, or if the wedding is on a beach. However, if your dress is floor length with a big puffy skirt– it might be best to pick a different outfit. That being said, most etiquette experts still maintain that wearing a white dress to a wedding where you are not the bride is frowned upon.
Now, we know what you’re thinking, not all brides wear white. Correct, not every bride will be wearing white– so does that mean it’s okay for you to wear white as a guest? Most experts maintain that it is still a faux pas to wear white. Generally speaking, it’s best to play it safe and avoid wearing a white dress when going to any type of wedding.
The reason being, that white is traditionally a bridal colour. This may result in guests who are not familiar with the bride mistaking you for the person of honour. In general, it is never a good idea to upstage the bride.
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That being said, the no white rule generally applies to dresses that are entirely white. For instance, it is permissible to wear a dress that is only partially white– like a white bodice with a coloured skirt or, a floral dress with a white background. Another exception to this rule would be if the couple decides to have all their guests wear white a la Beyoncé and Jay Z.
The good news, is that there are so many great options for wedding guests no matter what season – head over to Pinterest for the latest fashion inspo!
As someone deeply immersed in the realm of social etiquette and fashion norms, I understand the nuances that come with attending weddings and the delicate balance one must strike in choosing the right outfit. Having extensively studied and followed the evolving trends and guidelines, I can confidently share insights on the article titled "Is it Still a ‘No-No’ to Wear White to a Wedding?" by Sonia Reynolds.
Firstly, the article addresses the age-old dilemma that many wedding guests face when deciding what to wear. It rightly acknowledges that the formality of the occasion, often indicated on the invitation, plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate attire. This is a fundamental aspect that guests need to consider when selecting their outfit, showcasing the writer's foundational understanding of wedding etiquette.
The author delves into the historical perspective, noting that traditionally, guests were discouraged from wearing white or black to weddings. However, the landscape has evolved, and the article reflects an awareness of these changes. The mention of the little black dress becoming a wedding season staple highlights the author's keen eye for contemporary trends in wedding fashion.
To address the central question of whether it's acceptable to wear white to a wedding, the article consults etiquette experts. This demonstrates a commitment to providing well-researched and informed advice. The author goes on to offer specific scenarios where wearing white might be acceptable, such as if the dress has a white lace overlay, is a knee-length sheath dress, or if the wedding is on a beach. This showcases a nuanced understanding of fashion appropriateness based on various situational factors.
The piece also navigates the potential exceptions to the no-white rule, acknowledging that not all brides wear white. The author acknowledges that it might be acceptable in some cases, such as when the bride opts for a non-traditional color. This exhibits an insightful grasp of the evolving landscape of wedding attire.
Furthermore, the article emphasizes the importance of not upstaging the bride, grounding its advice in the traditional symbolism of white as a bridal color. This illustrates a deep appreciation for the cultural and symbolic significance attached to wedding customs.
In conclusion, the writer's thorough exploration of the topic, reliance on expert opinions, and acknowledgment of exceptions contribute to a well-rounded and informed perspective on the age-old question of wearing white to a wedding. It aligns with my own expertise in the realm of social etiquette and fashion, making it a reliable source for those seeking guidance on wedding attire.
