What to Wear For A Wedding

TOOD MILLER October 17, 2022
What to Wear For A Wedding

Credit: BrideBox

Making a decision about what to wear to a wedding is not always simple. There's a good chance that once you mail your RSVP, you'll begin considering what to wear on the big day. Although the suggested wedding attire is frequently included in the invitation, choosing an outfit can be challenging. And as any seasoned guest will attest, you don't want to put off deciding on your outfit until the night before the wedding, when you'll feel like you have nothing to wear.

You're not the only one who wonders, "What do I wear to a wedding as a guest?" It's one of the most frequently asked questions by visitors, in fact. And fortunately for you, we are here to assist. Regardless of the dress code or season, you'll find expert-recommended advice on what to wear to a wedding (and what not to wear) in this comprehensive guide to wedding guest fashion. Read on for their tried-and-true wedding fashion advice that will assist you in choosing an outfit that makes you feel your best. In order to make your shopping experience as simple as possible, we've also listed our top five favorite stores for finding wedding guest outfits that you'll want to wear repeatedly.

What to Wear as a Guest to a Wedding

We have advice for you if you're unsure of what to wear to a wedding. There are a few guidelines that will help you choose an outfit that is both appropriate and fashionable when it comes to wedding fashion etiquette. Before you go shopping, review the practical advice below so you will know exactly what attire is appropriate for a wedding.


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Follow the Dress Code


The most crucial aspect to consider when deciding what to wear to a wedding is the dress code. Depending on the type of event and the time of year, most couples will establish a dress code for their wedding. For instance, what you wear to a casual wedding in the middle of summer will be very different from what you wear to a black-tie wedding in the winter.

A black tuxedo is the only appropriate attire if the dress code is black tie, according to style expert and The Groom Guide author Brian Sacawa. Additionally, guests should wear the proper tuxedo shirt, matching studs and cufflinks, a cummerbund or waist covering, a black bow tie, a white pocket square, and black patent leather shoes. Women are also urged to dress elegantly, preferably in a floor-length evening gown.

On the other hand, the dress code for a laid-back daytime wedding is very different. According to Virginia-based wedding fashion expert Monte Durham, "you can never go wrong with a navy blazer, a blue button-down shirt, or khaki pants for a casual wedding." And ladies, there's always the option of wearing a dress with a nice neckline and neutral accessories.

It's important to know the wedding dress code before choosing an outfit. Use our comprehensive wedding dress code cheat sheet to help you understand the distinctions between terms like white tie, black tie optional, formal attire, semi-formal, cocktail attire, dressy casual, and everything in between. You'll be able to decide what to wear to a wedding after learning what the various dress codes entail.

Seasonal shopping

Aside from the suggested attire, the time of day and season of the wedding can provide additional fashion insight. "The season and location of the wedding are excellent indicators of what to wear," says Ranu Coleman, CMO of Azazie, a wedding fashion brand. "For example, if the wedding is on the beach, you should avoid wearing a formal gown. Summer weddings, for example, tend to favor shorter styles in lighter colors, whereas fall weddings favor darker jewel-toned colors and richer fabrics like velvet and silk."


If you're wondering, "What should I wear to a wedding?" Begin by looking for ideas in stores. Durham, who also appears on TLC's Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta, suggests browsing current styles on the racks to find a seasonally appropriate outfit. "In-person shopping at a traditional store can help you find what to wear," he says. "If you're going to a winter wedding, you'll find outfits made of wool, cashmere, and velvet, as well as blazers, jackets, and heavier shoes. If you're invited to a wedding in the middle of summer, you'll gravitate toward sheer, lightweight, flowy, and comfortable fabrics. When shopping, take your cue from what's on the shelves."

Make use of the venue as a guide

The location of the wedding can also provide some guidance on what to wear to a wedding. For example, your attire for an outdoor wedding on a farm will differ from that of an evening celebration at an upscale ballroom. It's also critical to plan your look around any religious ceremonies that are part of the wedding. Durham advises, "Be cautious if you're attending a wedding in a religious facility." "Make sure your shoulders are covered, and take off any hats."

The venue may also specify the type of shoes you should wear. "If you're going outside, choose a chunky heel for walking and a strappy top if it's going to be hot," Durham adds. "Wearing a kitten heel or a stiletto may cause you to sink into the ground. You can never go wrong with a pump heel for indoors."

Before the wedding, do some research on the venue so you know what to expect. Looking for photos on the venue's website or social media pages will help you understand what attire is appropriate for a wedding on their property.

Avoid Wearing White


This is the unbreakable guideline for wedding guest attire. Avoid wearing an all-white outfit unless specifically instructed to do so on the wedding invitation or the couple's wedding website. Although it's probably obvious to most guests, Coleman emphasizes that it's crucial to avoid wearing any shade of white to a wedding unless it's specifically permitted in the invitation. In some cases, the couple might ask visitors to dress in white to go with a certain theme. However, make sure that this is the requested guest attire by checking the instructions on the invitation twice before choosing your outfit.

You might be curious about wearing a dress with a white print to a wedding or if men are allowed to wear white. Under a tuxedo or suit jacket, a white dress shirt is totally acceptable. Similarly, as long as white isn't the dominant color, it's acceptable to wear a dress or jumpsuit with a hint of the color. Use your best judgment when deciding what to wear to a wedding and select ensembles that are not primarily white. Additionally, it is generally advised to refrain from donning overly casual attire such as t-shirts, flip-flops, jeans, or sneakers. By adhering to these guidelines, you can avoid making any style mistakes on the big day.

Accessorize Your Outfit


A great wedding guest outfit consists of more than just clothes. Accessories, in addition to wearing a nice dress or suit, have the ability to completely transform your appearance. Meaghan Rose, the founder and CEO of the jewelry subscription service Rocksbox, said that jewelry "completes an outfit." Finding the ideal pair of earrings or necklace to match the neckline of your outfit really ties the whole look together, even if your dress is stunning.

The same is true of men's attire for wedding guests. Any tuxedo or suit will look better with accents like a vibrant pocket square, a printed tie, or a stylish belt. According to Andrew Roberts, CEO of the upscale accessory company Del Toro, "my favorite accessory is a suspender." "As an alternative, a vintage or traditional watch will always be a good conversation starter. Or, a signet ring placed on the pinky finger is understated but will raise the wearer's style quotient."

Intentional accessories can improve an outfit you already have in your closet if you're looking for wedding attire on a budget. Durham says, "Accessories can make an old outfit look brand new." "The key is adding your own tasteful twist to the outfit and wearing it with bold confidence," Roberts continues.

Alter Pieces You Already Own


What to wear as a guest to a wedding can be heavily influenced by alterations. It might not be financially feasible to buy new clothes for every event if you have a busy wedding season. Therefore, experts advise making changes to pieces you already own to change up their appearance in addition to thoughtfully accessorizing.

Making sure your clothing fits perfectly is the key to looking and feeling your best, according to Sacawa. "If the fit is off, that could undermine your confidence." Durham adds: "Never attempt to pull your clothing up or down while wearing it. By altering the silhouette of a skirt or raising or lowering the hem, you can give your existing wardrobe new life."

Where to Buy Outfits for Wedding Guests

Now that you are aware of what to wear as a wedding guest, where should you shop for clothing? Fear not, as we've rounded up five of our favorite stores that offer stylish wedding guest attire in all price ranges as self-proclaimed wedding fashion experts.

Nordstrom

A trip to Nordstrom is a surefire way to find exactly what you're looking for if you're ever unsure of what to wear to a wedding. With more than 400 locations across the US, it's simple to locate a store close to you to try on clothing. You can also browse the brand's sizable online store if you'd rather shop in the convenience of your own home. The retailer offers wedding guest attire that adheres to just about any dress code, including formal tuxes, cocktail dresses, and trendy jumpsuits. Shop popular brands like Topshop, Free People, Madewell, and more, or browse their curated collections of wedding guest dresses and men's formal wedding attire for even more fashion ideas.

ASOS

At ASOS, you can find a ton of outfit suggestions whether you're going to a casual or semi-formal wedding. Wedding guests who are up on the latest fashion trends will love this trendy Instagram brand. You'll find exactly what you need within your price range because of their low prices and frequent sales. Additionally, the brand's menswear line offers guest-appropriate suits, dress pants, and shirts in addition to size-inclusive wedding guest dresses and jumpsuits. Additionally, there are many colorful and printed styles that will make your guest outfit one to remember if you're looking to spend a little extra on a special outfit for a memorable wedding.

Lulus

Lulus is the best option if you need a wedding guest dress quickly. You'll have a ton of options when it comes to selecting the ideal attire for a wedding thanks to our large selection of seasonal dresses. The flexibility of online shopping is further enhanced by free shipping for orders over $50 and free returns. Visitors can also browse the brand's carefully curated selection of dresses for weddings of any style for styling guidance.

Indochino

Consider investing in a timeless suit that will serve as a mainstay in your closet for years when deciding what to wear to a wedding. The cost of purchasing a new outfit for each wedding on your social calendar is high, and it isn't always a sustainable choice. Consider spending your money on a classic suit that you can wear repeatedly to get the most out of your budget. We advise purchasing from a company that offers customers the option of purchasing custom-fit suits, such as Indochino. The brand makes custom suits tailored to your body type in the materials of your choice using an algorithm that uses your precise measurements. While the entire process can be done online, you can also make your purchases in person at an Indochino showroom or one of the brand's pop-up shops located in selected Nordstrom locations across the nation.

CoEdition

The CoEdition size-inclusive wedding guest attire has us completely smitten. This online store specializes in chic, current looks for any situation. Simple sundresses, printed rompers and jumpsuits, easy maxi dresses, and a wide range of accessories are all available. Additionally, we advise using the brand's "Best Dressed Guest" edit to find outfits for each wedding you are considering attending.

Reformation

Reformation is well-known among millennials and Generation Z as one of the pioneering eco-friendly clothing companies. Their items are always one step ahead of the latest fashions, making them a go-to brand for anyone seeking a stylish, cutting-edge appearance. Additionally, you can feel good about your purchase because of their emphasis on sustainable practices.

Dia & Co.

Keep Dia & Co. in mind for stylish, modern cocktail attire and formal attire. The sizing-inclusive online store sells stylish dresses that fit all body types.

Anthropologie

Undoubtedly, you are already familiar with this bohemian brand, which is distinguished by its light materials and flowing silhouettes. However, did you know that Anthropologie offers a wide range of occasionwear? The line carries everything from jumpsuits to midi dresses for a backyard or casual wedding. You can find semi-formal and formal dresses on BHLDN, Anthropologie's sister site, if you're looking for something a little more dressy.

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