Why Should You Not Wear White To A Wedding?

White is traditionally reserved for the bride and groom at weddings, as it symbolizes her “virginity.” However, some experts argue that wearing white to someone else’s wedding is still a taboo due to the risk of offending the bride. To avoid this, guests should stay calm and avoid wearing different shades of white, such as ivory, bone, cream, and other similar tones.

In 2023, it is acceptable to wear black to a wedding if the dress code requires it and the couple specifically asks for it. A sleek, black dress or suit can offer a sophisticated and elegant look, perfect for both daytime and evening. Red is also no longer considered a faux pas, but it depends on the wedding itself and the fashion specifications dictated by the couple.

Guests should not wear white to a wedding because it would upstage the bride, who wears white to symbolise her “virginity.” Women rarely wear all white at any other occasion, and guests should not be mistaken for the bride.

White remains a symbolic color for brides on their wedding day, but the cultural taboo around guests wearing white has faded somewhat over time. Some wedding planners and stylists weigh in on whether or not family and friends can wear white attire to a wedding. In 2023, it is generally acceptable to wear black to a wedding if the dress code requires it and the couple specifically asks for it.

In conclusion, while white is traditionally reserved for the bride and groom at weddings, there are still exceptions to the rule. It is important to stay calm, avoid wearing lighter shades of white, and follow the appropriate etiquette guidelines for a stress-free, positive, and enjoyable event.

Why is it taboo to wear white to a wedding?

The bride may or may not wear white (maybe ivory, maybe champagne), but its her color for that day. You dont want to be mistaken for the bride in a white or lace gown, says Brandi Hamerstone, owner and wedding planner at All Events Planned. You dont want to stand with the bride and look as though you were attempting to look bridal on someone elses day. Even if that wasnt your intention, thats what people (and possibly the bride) will think, and who wants to be that person?

Other Colors That Are Off-Limits. If youre a stickler for etiquette, then you should also avoid wearing colors similar to white, says bridal stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz. That means ivory and cream, of course, but to be extra safe, Id also think twice about silver, champagne, blush, and pale blue, which can read as white in photos, she says. If youre unsure of a color, take several photos of the garment in different lighting setups (natural daylight, dim light, candlelight, etc) to see how it reads on camera.

Dresses that look darker in photos than they do in real life can help you skirt the no-white rule, she says, especially in knee-length cocktail silhouettes. Depending on the dress code, you might be able to get away with a knee-length pale blush or ice blue dress for cocktail attire since its length wont look like a wedding dress, but I would still avoid fabrics like lace and tulle that can read more traditionally bridal, says Hurwitz. She offers one simple guideline: If you have to ask if something looks too white, chances are, it probably is.

What colors shouldn’t you wear to a wedding?

White or ivory. Ready to wear that white dress? Don’t do it. While it’s a common wedding guest mistake, some people forget the rule. We’re here to remind you that white or white dresses with patterns are off-limits. There’s always an exception. If the bride has asked guests to wear white, don’t wear white to someone’s special day.

Champagne, beige, or white. Avoid off-white, eggshell, beige, champagne, cream, or any other light color that could be mistaken for white. There are many dress options in different colors, so avoiding these colors should not be hard. Brands like Reformation, Lulus, Revolve, and ASOS have lots of wedding guest dresses in different colors, styles, and sizes.

The same color as the bridal party. While you may not know the color of the bridesmaid dresses, find out what they plan to wear to avoid wearing the same color. Ask the couple, a bridesmaid, or anyone at the wedding. Don’t get mistaken for a bridesmaid or family member.

Is it rude to wear red to a wedding?

Can you wear red to a wedding? It depends on the wedding and the couple’s fashion rules. It is no longer considered faux pas to wear red to most Western and secular weddings. Bridal fashion stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz says that as couples get more creative with their weddings, they’re also getting more creative with their dress codes. This has also made wedding guest attire more varied. “If the wedding or the couple is less traditional, or the dress code is creative, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with wearing red as a wedding guest,” adds Hurwitz. Don’t believe rumors that wearing red means you had a fling with the groom. There’s no hidden meaning to wedding guest attire colors. When not to wear red to a wedding. In some cultures, red is lucky and is worn at weddings. This is the same as white being worn at Western weddings. If you’re attending an Indian, Chinese, or South Asian Muslim wedding, or any other wedding where the color may have cultural significance, “avoid wearing red because it could be part of the couple’s attire,” says O’Neal. You may also want to avoid white, as some cultures associate it with death and mourning.

Why can’t you wear red to a wedding?

Turns out, wearing red to a wedding means to some that “youve slept with the groom.”

However, both wedding planners agreed on a more modern reason for not wearing red: It could be seen as a way to grab the attention away from the bride.

“I feel like red can seen as like quite sexy,” Smith said. “Naughty.”

“A bit ‘look at me,” Mitchell added of the attention-grabbing hue, but also wouldnt rule it out as an option for a wedding guest as it “depends on the dress.”

Can I wear blue to a wedding?

What to wear with a blue dress to a wedding. Whatever it is you plan on wearing, if youre close with the couple getting married then there is no harm in attempting to find out the colour scheme beforehand. No surprises need to be spoiled, but if possible its best to avoid going dressed as the table cloths. So, wearing a blue dress, whether it be a solid colour, mixed or patterned, is always a bright idea when it comes to weddings – particularly when we incorporate them with different accessories and footwear. Here we go through a handful of our favourite dresses and the footwear/accessories we suggest you wear with them.

Wedding Guest Dress and White Accessories. In standard wedding fashion it is always important to note that you shouldnever wear a white dress as a wedding guest! Whilst not all brides choose to wear white, its still best to avoid unless told by the bride! However, you can easily incorporate the summer shade in with your look through accessories.With our Maxi Kimono dress, we suggest the stunning ASOS DESIGN Nala barely-there heeled sandals in white (like those in the photo!) as well as a matching bag.

Wedding Guest Dress with Pearl Earrings. Accessories, as we know, go beyond handbags and shoes. Opting to wear jewellery is something you should look into, especially when a big event is involved. Whats more, and it might sound obvious, you should also plan ahead on coverups and hairstyles. Why? Well, those stunning silver pearl earrings you spent a small fortune on wont be getting a look-in if theyre covered up with your volume winning hairstyle.

What is the safest color to wear to a wedding?

Neutral shades are timeless options that wont detract from the weddings formal atmosphere. For a more colorful look, consider wearing shades of blue, lavender, or pink to show that youre in the celebratory spirit. If the wedding is in a tropical destination, opt for colors like yellow, orange, and green.

Why can’t you wear green to a wedding?

A friend mentioned to me the other day she had heard youre not supposed to wear green to a wedding. That was news to me. A quick Google revealed that, according to Irish tradition, the colour green attracts the fairies and they could bring mischief and mayhem to the event.

Is it OK to wear bright Colours to a wedding?

• What colours to avoid wearing at a wedding. Unless otherwise specified, dont be afraid to wear bold, bright colours to a wedding. They are celebratory and fun, and make the wedding photos look great. However, there are a few colours that should be avoided, starting with the most obvious…White. Though the wearing of virginal white is largely symbolic these days, it is reserved just for the bride, so dont be tempted to wear it. If white is your go-to for special occasions, try light pastels instead.
• All black. Whilst some people dont consider this a wedding guest dress faux pas, others do so avoid it just to be on the safe side. If you prefer dark colours try navy or dark green instead.
• Black tuxedo. Just as the ladies dont want to upstage the bride, men shouldnt upstage the groom either. Your suit should be more casual than the grooms, whilst still being smart.
• Sparkly. Over flashy metallic material or sequins can steal the spotlight from the bride. If you want a bit of sparkle, save it for your accessories.
• Red. Red is the colour of passion which, in some peoples eyes, make it inappropriate for a wedding. If you arent confident that the bride and groom wont mind its safest to avoid it.

Image source: metro.co.uk/2017/07/14/your-guide-to-being-a-great-wedding-guest-6778901/

Is it okay to wear red at a wedding?

Summary. To answer the main question of the article, yes you can wear red to a wedding in most circumstances. However, in some situations you may want to check with the marrying couple that red is acceptable to wear as a guest and it wont go against their culture or distract from their big day. Explore our range of guest and bridesmaid dresses online today to find the right dress to suit the occasion.

Is it rude to wear black to a wedding?

That’s just an assumption. Can you wear black to a wedding? “You can!” says bridal stylist Anny Choi. The rule seems old-fashioned. Black is a great wedding staple. I just bought a black suit for fall weddings. Vogue contributor Alexandra Macon agrees. It’s fine to wear black to a wedding, as long as it’s festive and not funeral-like.

Is it rude to wear white to a wedding?

Don’t be mistaken for the bride or steal the spotlight in photos. It’s respectful to not wear white as a guest to a wedding unless the bride says it’s okay.