If there’s one thing I love it’s a wedding! I’m always so thrilled/honoured to be invited to share someone’s big day, and I know having gone through my own how important it is to have your nearest and dearest there. That said, I do take a very considered approach to what I wear to a wedding because I know how much time, effort and cost goes into such an occasion. I always like to look polished, but at the same time very much in keeping with the couple’s wishes. Here are some things I always do whenever I’m planning a wedding guest outfit.
Steer clear of white
Unless it is the express wish of the couple getting married, I never ever wear white to a wedding. This rule may have relaxed in some way over the years but I don’t ever want to encroach on what the bride is wearing so I always avoid white at all costs. There are so many outfit options out there, I definitely think taking white off the table doesn’t limit your options at all! I tend to go the opposite direction and embrace bold hues—it’s a joyous occasion, I want my clothing to reflect that sentiment.
Follow the dress code
I can’t stress enough how importantly I take this into account whenever I’m planning an outfit as a wedding guest. I always dress for a wedding according to the dress code and follow it to the letter. Whether it’s dressing up in feathers from head to toe or a black and white theme or barefoot and relaxed by the beach, whatever the dress code is I make sure I always abide by it. A dress code is a reflection of the couple’s vision for the day and I want to respect that. Recently I went to a wedding with a dress code that was black tie and colourful so I went all out, the result was the outfit above: a riot of colour and a long length hemline that ticked both requirements.
Consider your accessories
Accessories should never be forgotten when it comes to wedding attire. I always make sure that I stick to a small-ish bag (usually a clutch) to carry all my essentials. I think going down the diminutive bag route is always advisable as far as weddings go, because you don’t want to be carrying an oversized bag with a dressy outfit, there’s something about a small bag that’s a little more elegant. If you need to, downsize what you’re carrying! Also, I think it’s always a great time to embrace fun, bold accessories. Whether it’s a statement earrings or a beautiful cocktail ring or standout necklace, a wedding is the time to step it up as far as your accoutrements go—within reason of course, you never ever want to go so over the top that you threaten to steal the couple’s limelight.
Know your designers
I have a list of brands that I know I can look to whenever I’m looking for an outfit for a wedding. My go-tos are usually Rebecca Vallance, Rachel Gilbert, Bec and Bridge and Camilla and Marc. I highly recommend pinpointing a few different labels whose aesthetic ties into your style and check out their even wear offering. I find the more I stick to brands that work with my regular style the more comfortable I feel in what I’m wearing.
Shop my edit of wedding guest outfit options!
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