What to Wear as a Wedding Guest

I’m going to a wedding in a few weeks and the thought of what I’m going to wear has come up. I’m going shopping this week for something but there are some questions that always crop up. Can I wear black or white? Should I wear a dress or a skirt and top or trousers? So, what can you wear to a wedding?

Wearing White at a Wedding

Yes, you can do this but with some considerations. First of all, avoid anything that makes you look like the bride. At a recent wedding, I wore a white calf length skirt and cream top (it was the only thing I could find when I was eight months pregnant at last minute when I realised a dress wasn’t fitting quite right) but I knew the outfit wouldn’t upstage the bride. A white dress is a big no-no.

Wearing Black at a Wedding

Should you wear black at a wedding? It is now considered a colour for mourning but originally it was a colour used for English weddings! But since tradition has changed, is wearing black at a wedding something that you should really do? A long, plain black dress with a black hat may be something that you want to avoid since it will look too sombre but there is nothing wrong with a black skirt and bright top – or black trousers with a different coloured shirt. Men will traditionally end up wearing black if they decide to wear a suit so definitely opt for it in moderation if you wish.

Thinking About the Time of Day

So, now should you wear a dress or a suit? Should you opt for something more casual? Should you wear a hat? This will often depend on the part of the wedding that you have been invited to. If you have been invited to the wedding breakfast or church ceremony, a hat is a common option for women. However, as an evening guest, you may opt for something a little more casual. An evening gown or maxi dress could be perfect for the evening do but a little too much for the church ceremony.

Think About the Time of Year

Would you really wear a large fur coat in the middle of summer? No! So, why would you consider one for a summer wedding? Think about the time of year before you opt for something to wear at a wedding. Add extra layers if you are going to a winter wedding, especially if it is outside!

In the end, what you wear to a wedding is your choice. It may be worth thinking about what you would like your guests to wear if it was your wedding. Before going out to buy anything, look in your wardrobe to see if there is anything suitable to help you save money as being a wedding guest. If you do decide to buy something new, think about the time of year and the part of the wedding you are invited to so that you find something in the best colour and style.