WHAT TO WEAR TO A WEDDING AS A GUEST

wondering what to wear to a wedding you’re attending? if you’re thinking about your wedding guest attire, you likely understand the importance of dressing for the occasion and respecting the couple’s special day. in this blog, we’ll share everything from wedding guest dress codes to trending wedding fashion. whether you're a guest, part of the bridal party, or even family, finding the right ensemble can be fun!

picking out a wedding outfit

where to find the wedding dress code

the first step in figuring out your wedding outfit is understanding the dress code. typically, wedding dress codes can be found on the wedding invitation or wedding website!

common wedding dress codes

common wedding dress codes include black-tie, cocktail attire, and casual beach wedding wear. adhering to the specified dress code sets the tone for your outfit and will help you narrow down your outfit options.

wedding guest outfit colors

other than the wedding dress code and setting, the wedding colors could help guide your wedding outfit choice.

if wearing a suit, sticking to classic colors like navy, charcoal, or black is usually easy to execute. if wearing a dress, make sure to be mindful of the wedding colors and anything that may resemble a bridesmaid’s dress. neutral colors like black and navy tend to be popular as well as pastels and floral prints during spring and summer weddings.

wedding outfit inspiration and trends

we gathered wedding outfit examples from real weddings to provide ideas and inspiration for your next wedding outfit. scroll below to see some emerging wedding guest outfit trends and looks that you can recreate.

something blue wedding guest dress

many brides opt to wear something blue on their wedding day, but why not have your guest or wedding party wear something blue instead? from blue groomsmen suits to blue bridesmaids dresses, having your guests wear blue is a fresh way to add a pop of color to your big day!

photographer: alixann loosle photography / planning: great jones nw

mix-and-match floral print bridesmaids dresses

if you’ve been to a spring or summer wedding, chances are you’ve seen touches of floral print. floral print bridesmaids dresses are trending and we think they are the perfect way to infuse some personal style into your bridal party. bridesmaids can find a floral pattern that feels most like them and potentially even purchase a bridesmaid dress they would wear again.

photographer: lo&co. media / venue: the emerson / planning: confetti and vow and dr delphinium designs and events

 

statement wedding guest wear

occasionally, wedding guests will have the opportunity to wear a statement outfit. some wedding themes accommodate unique wedding guest wear. you’ll find two statement wedding guest outfit ideas below.

metallic wedding dress code

holiday weddings or winter weddings tend to gravitate towards a metallic wedding dress code. if you’re at a new year’s eve wedding, you’ll likely spot wedding guests wearing colors like gold, silver, and bronze. sparkly details like sequins, embellishment, or embroidery are also common metallic wedding details.

photographer: meme urbane photography / venue: reflections venue & gardens / florals: market street

colorful wedding dress code

during summer or spring weddings, you’ll typically notice guests wearing more colors. this is especially true if the wedding is a tropical destination wedding or garden wedding. when experimenting with a colorful wedding guest outfit, we recommend selecting solids. prints and patterns can be tempting, but if you’re making a statement with color, keeping the silhouette and design simple is usually best!

photographer: the pianolas / venue: hacienda la magdalena / florals: floremia

 

have you gathered enough dress code inspiration to be impeccably dressed at your next wedding event? by tailoring your outfit to the wedding theme and location, you'll undoubtedly be a stylish wedding guest!

Rebecca Long