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?
Why Wearing White is Usually Discouraged at Weddings?
It’s important to remember that weddings are all about celebrating the couple, especially the bride. Traditionally, white is her colour, and wearing it as a guest could create confusion or worse, make it seem like you’re trying to steal the spotlight. Even if it’s unintentional, the bride may feel overshadowed if someone else shows up in white. Nobody wants to be “that guest” who gets the side-eye all day.
Beyond personal preference, some cultures also hold white as a special or symbolic colour. For example, in certain cultures, white is worn for mourning or other significant events. It’s always best to be mindful of the couple’s background and any cultural significance that might apply.
When is it Okay to Wear White to a Wedding?
So, is it ever okay to wear white? The short answer: sometimes. In recent years, wedding traditions have become more flexible. Some couples might have a non-traditional theme where guests are encouraged to wear white. For instance, at all-white or black-and-white weddings, it’s perfectly fine. If the bride or groom explicitly says it’s okay to wear white, you’re in the clear. But unless the couple gives a green light, it’s better to play it safe and skip white.
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Other Colours and Fabrics to Avoid
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.
However, it’s not just solid white that’s a no-go. You should also avoid wearing colours too close to white, such as ivory, champagne, or even pale blush. These shades can appear white in photos, which might cause the same confusion. Fabrics are also important. Materials like lace, satin, and tulle are traditionally associated with wedding dresses, even in non-white colours. If your dress is made of these materials, it could still be seen as too bridal.
To make it easier, here are some colours to think twice about:
- Ivory
- Cream
- Champagne
- Pale blush
How to Choose the Perfect Guest Attire?
Now that white is off the table, what should you wear? It depends on the formality of the event, but colourful, fun options are always a safe bet. Jewel tones, pastels, or even darker hues like navy or burgundy are all popular choices. If you’re attending a summer or destination wedding, consider lighter fabrics and floral patterns. If you’re unsure, checking the invitation for dress code cues or even asking the bride directly is a great way to avoid any missteps.
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!
