Figuring out what to wear to someone’s wedding can be very challenging. Most of the time, decoding the dress code specified on the invite makes it a lot more intimidating. But, knowing which outfit should never see the light of day at an event such as this can be just as hard.
You wouldn’t want to make that mistake that will land you in “that” guest territory. If you’re attending a wedding, of course, you’d want to look your best. There will be tons of cameras everywhere, from the other guests’ to the wedding video and photography packages booked by the couple.
However, every wedding guest should follow several rules related to dress code. Sometimes, it isn’t enough to just use your best judgment. After all, “formal” can be interpreted in a number of ways, especially if you only go to weddings every once in a while.
It doesn’t matter whether it’s an intimate or a grand event. Weddings should always be treated as a formal event, and when you receive an invitation, you owe it to the bride and groom to show some respect by dressing up accordingly.
Looking your best doesn’t mean you have to take the attention away from the couple, especially the bride. So, here are the things you should never wear to a wedding:
Anything that’s too revealing
Forget about that skimpy cocktail dress and choose something a bit more classic and conservative. The ideal length of skirts and dresses should be knee-length, depending on the season the wedding will be held. If it’s on a hot summer day, go for lighter fabrics instead of less, especially if it’s an outdoor event.
If it’s at places of worship, cover your shoulders with a nice shawl.
Anything that’s in the same color as the bridesmaids’ dresses
This can be difficult to avoid unless you’re close to the bride. However, if you have an idea what color the bridesmaids will be wearing prior to the wedding, it isn’t ideal to show up in the same shade. We’ve all heard about how guests should not wear wide so as not to upstage the bride.
Wearing the same color as the bridesmaids can be seen as tacky, and you wouldn’t want to look like you’re bitter about not being chosen as part of the bridal entourage.
Anything red and black
Some brides can be specific when it comes to the colors their guests can wear. Many forbid their guests from wearing bright colors like hot pink and red. According to a survey, this is the color that tends to offend some brides, especially if it’s a Chinese wedding where it’s customary for brides themselves to wear red.
The same can be said for black. While it’s a sophisticated color highly associated with formal wear, it’s also something people associate with funerals.
Weddings are happy events, so don’t take that sad mood into your friend’s big day. This isn’t the right time to wear your favorite LBD. You can wear some nice separates, such as a plain top and a floral skirt.
