Can You Wear White To A Wedding? 15 Things You Need To Know

By Miruna Dulcea Mar 08, 2024

Are you attending a wedding soon and wondering if it's appropriate to wear white?

In this article, we will answer that question for you and show you the best outfits you can wear as a wedding guest.

Let's find out when you can wear white to a wedding! Keep reading to discover our best tips!

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Social norms

The tradition of not wearing white to a wedding stems from the idea that white is reserved for the bride, as it symbolizes purity and innocence.

Wearing white is often seen as an attempt to outshine the bride, which is why it is not recommended. After all, there are plenty of other colors that you can wear!

Times have changed and wedding fashion rules have evolved a lot. In recent years, the fashion world has seen a shift towards more relaxed and non-traditional wedding attire. Many brides are opting for colored wedding dresses, and if that's the case, then you can wear white as a wedding guest. You should still be very careful and avoid gowns that resemble bridal dresses.

Another situation when wearing white as a wedding guest is completely acceptable is when the wedding has a theme and you are asked to wear a white outfit.

Last but not least, if you want to wear a certain color and aren't sure about it, it's always a good idea to ask the bride and groom.

Wedding dress

If you are the bride, white is a classic choice and to help you look fabulous we have selected the best affordable and sustainable wedding dresses.

Important aspects

Before choosing your wedding guest outfit, you should consider the time of the day when the wedding starts, as well as the location.

For an upscale location you need formal attire, while for a more relaxed environment such as a beach wedding, you can go with a smart casual outfit.

White dress

Only wear a white dress if you've been asked to or if you talked about it with the bride and groom and they are okay with it.

Make sure to choose a design that is simpler than the bride's dress.

Purchase it from a sustainable brand.

Slip dress

For women who prefer a simple outfit, a slip dress can be an elegant and fashionable choice.

Originally designed as undergarments, sleep dresses quickly became garments and in 2024 you can see them everywhere! Don't forget to accessorize your outfit with beautiful jewelry.

Take a look at the 20 best affordable and sustainable slip dresses.

Yellow dress

Midi dresses are a go-to for many women because they are beautiful, flattering, and versatile. If you want to look elegant and stand out from the crowd, choose a yellow midi dress.

Complete your outfit with shoes in a bright, contrasting color that will highlight the beauty of your dress.

If you need shopping inspiration, here are the best sustainable clothing brands from London.

Gown

Gowns are classic choices for weddings, especially for upscale locations. Look your best with one of these fabulous and eco-friendly gowns!

Blue dress

Blue is a versatile and universally flattering color that is a popular choice for wedding guest attire.

A blue dress in a rich hue like royal blue or navy can make a stylish statement while remaining sophisticated.

Whether you choose a body-hugging silhouette or a flowy A-line dress, blue is sure to turn heads and make you feel confident and beautiful.

Discover the best ways to wear blue to a wedding.

Green dress

For a trendy and elegant outfit, opt for a green dress. Green dresses are also extremely versatile and can be worn on many other occasions.

Here are the best green wedding attendee outfits for women.

Mini dress

If you love sexy outfits, a mini-dress is the way to go! Choose a design that is flattering for your body shape and don't forget to accessorize your outfit with delicate jewelry and a pair of heels.

Purchase your dress from one of these sustainable brands that work under the highest social and environmental standards.

Red dress

Red is the color of passion and if you want to embrace its vibrancy there is no better choice than a dress featuring it.

Wearing red to weddings has been a topic of debate for years because according to traditional standards, it is a color that tends to outshine the bride.

However, in 2024 wearing red as a wedding guest is an acceptable choice. If you want to discover more red outfits, read our article.

Pink dress

Pink is a fun, feminine, and uplifting color that is perfect for your wedding guest attire.

You can choose a beautiful pink dress or you can go with a pink blouse and a darker skirt.

Don't forget to purchase clothes in the right size for your body from sustainable brands.

Maxi dress

Many women love maxi dresses because they perfectly balance comfort and style.

Breathable, beautiful, and versatile, a maxi dress is a great choice that will look fabulous at any wedding.

Let yourself be inspired by our selection of maxi dresses.

Cocktail dress

Exude sophistication and style with a beautiful cocktail dress. Available in many lengths, colors, and designs, cocktail dresses are fabulous options for any woman who wants to dress up.

There is no need to spend a lot of money on a dress that you will wear only once or twice.

Here are over 20 places that offer rental services and that can help you find the perfect cocktail dress for a special night.

Velvet dress

Velvet is a luxurious material that can help you feel confident and look fantastic.

Our recommendation is to choose an elegant black velvet dress. Purchase it from one of these second-hand clothing apps that sell affordable vintage.

This way, you will save a lot of money.

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About the Author: Miruna Dulcea

Miruna Dulcea has a science degree in Physics. She enjoys learning foreign languages and has so far lived and worked in four countries across Europe. Apart from her interest in science, she has a passion for fragrance and loves animals and art in all forms. - "Writing is a binder that breaks physical, temporal, and cultural boundaries and connects people everywhere, and that is the powerful fuel that motivates me to express myself with this form of communication. It is about both learning and sharing."

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