Choosing an outfit for a wedding is no easy feat. If you haven’t participated in many, you might not know much about appropriate attire. On the other hand, if you’ve been to a lot, you might have noticed that the formality has likely varied at each. Also, you probably don’t want to wear the same thing to every party. Before you start stressing out, take a look at your closet, or commit to a shopping spree, read through this guide. Whether you need the common dress codes decoded or just want some ideas for improving your style, you’ve come to the right place.
Even though there is nothing more stressful than being a bride and organizing the whole wedding, choosing your wedding guest attire can be a nightmare too. There are so many dress codes that you need to decode or there is no dress code on the invite and you need to figure it out on your own. If you are left wondering what to wear here are some wedding guest outfit ideas.
1. Follow The Dress Code
Since there are so many different dress codes that can be chosen, it can get quite stressful figuring out what they mean. When someone is talking about a black-tie dress code that means that you can choose any formal block number. From a little black dress to a black ball gown, you will be good to go. White tie means the opposite, but rather than having something that looks like a wedding dress, opt for something such as a long formal evening dress with an updo. Then we have something called cocktail which means that you should choose a knee-length cocktail dress and pair it with some heels. And lastly, we have smart casual which means a nice shirt/blouse paired with nice flat shoes and smart trousers or a flowy long skirt. It does not mean jeans and sneakers.
The couple that is getting married has probably chosen their dress code based on the venue they are getting married at or simply because it matches their aesthetic. By dressing in something opposite of what they have requested you are risking being embarrassed as others will judge you or you won’t even be allowed into the venue. There is nothing more embarrassing than showing up underdressed or overdressed, so stick to the dress code that was stated in your invite.
2. Dress for the Season
Another important thing that you need to think about when you are dressing for a wedding is the season that you are in right now. You don’t want to be profusely sweating or shivering in all the photos, you want to have a comfortable piece. If you are going to a winter wedding make sure that you are not just putting on a tiny black dress without having anything to put over it. On the other hand, you don’t want to have a thick winter dress in the middle of the summer. Make sure that you are thinking about the weather when you are choosing your outfit.
3. Don’t Wear All Black
Something that is not all talked about is the fact that you shouldn’t choose an all-black outfit when you are going to a wedding. Dressing all black is associated with funerals, so this might not be the best opportunity to go all black. Even though it is not that big of a deal if you show up in an all-black outfit, you should do your best to incorporate some accessories that will break up the darkness.
4. Accessorise Subtle
Are you looking for a cost-effective way to change your style at parties? Don’t worry.
Look different by matching your outfit with an alternate piece of jewelry. You can constantly amaze people by wearing similar outfits in various ways. Colorful pieces can change a boring dress into an amazing one. Accessories are mystical; they change the same outfit into something new every time! Your simple outfit will look awesome when matched with the proper accessory. You can wear a similar outfit again and again without looking boring.
When it comes to accessorizing, even though you shouldn’t go without any accessories, make sure that you are choosing dainty jewelry rather than statement pieces. Another quite important thing is making sure that all your jewelry is cleaned before you go. You can get your custom jewelry cleaner to ensure that all your jewelry is nice and shiny during the wedding and in pictures.
5. Do Steer Clear Of White
Unless it has been stated otherwise by the bride, wearing an all-white outfit is not the move. You don’t want to be accused that you are stealing all the focus or getting confused with the bride. The main rule when you are going to a wedding is never overshining the bride, so that means no white fluffy dresses that look like wedding gowns. If you have to get a white dress, try finding something that has a subtle print to avoid any uncomfortable situations.
6. Avoid Short Hemlines
Even though you should ways we are things that you want to and you feel comfortable in, you should always keep in mind that you are going to be sitting down for a longer period as well as getting down on the dance floor, so a minidress might not be the wisest choice. A middy dress will look elegant but it will also be much more practical and comfortable during a wedding.
7. Always Carry a Small Bag for Your Essentials
No matter who you are wearing, something small where you will be able to keep your essentials during the event should be added. But carrying a large tote bag or a cumbersome shoulder bag is not meant for these occasions. Choose something minimal such as a clutch bag that you can keep on the table if needed.
8. Wear Heels You Can Walk In All Day
Before you go out and purchase amazing-looking heels, make sure that you keep in mind that you will have to wear them all day. It is much better to have heels that are a bit less glamorous than to limp across the dancefloor. Always choose comfort over glamour.
9. Don’t Dress Like a Bridesmaid
Another thing that you should avoid is dressing like the bridesmaids. You should be keeping it safe with colors that are usually worn by bridesmaids. A lot of wedding invites will follow the theme of what the bride and bridesmaids are going to wear so choose something that is not similar to those colors.
Even though choosing your outfit when attending a wedding can be stressful, if you don’t go over the top and follow the given instructions, you will shine brightly almost like the bride without stealing the spotlight.