This post covers what to wear to a formal wedding as a guest and explains the dress code. Example photos guide you in picking the proper attire. Read which colors and styles to wear, and which styles and colors to avoid at formal nuptials.
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What Does the Dress Code Formal Mean for a Wedding?
When the invitation states formal attire and/or the start time is in the evening, an elegant, feminine midi dress or a nice pantsuit like a tuxedo is the minimum requirement. However, a formal tea-length or floor-length gown would be more appropriate. Recall that there are reasons why it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
As a rule of thumb for formal wedding guest outfits: The later in the day the more formal the attire, the longer the length of the gowns.
At a late in the afternoon wedding, outfits for men can be formal suits with a shirt and tie.After 6 pm, a tuxedo or even a cutaway is appropriate.
What Color Is Best to Wear at a Formal Wedding?
Gowns in gemstone and earth tones, navy, pastels (not icy), metallic gold, or silver are good choices. After 6 p.m., a black gown works in the US as well. Patterns stand out, so go for solid attire to blend in with the crowd of guests.
For men, navy, black, and gray attire is best with a pop of solid color for the vest and tie or bow. When wearing a tuxedo without a vest, make a style statement with solid suspenders in the bow’s or tie’s color.
What Colors and Styles Should You Avoid as a Guest at a Formal Wedding?
Of course, both male and female guests should avoid the color of the wedding party.
Tip: The invitation and/or wedding/wishlist website may indirectly hint at the wedding party’s color.
Because a wedding is the bride’s day to shine, avoid white (unless the couple asks you to wear white), bright colors, prints, and sequin/glitter gowns. These choices will make you stand out instead of blending in. Lately, black wedding dresses have become a trend, so check with the bride whether she will wear white or black.
Consider the location and time. When you expect strong artificial light or bright sunshine, icy pastels, ivory, cream, light gray, and beige might appear white. Therefore, it is best to avoid them.
Style-wise, avoid showing too much skin. For example, avoid formal gowns with hems above the knee, as is often the case with high-low hems. During a religious ceremony, wear a cover-up when your dress is sleeveless, backless, or shoulderless.
What Are the Best Styles for Formal Wedding Guest Outfits?
Any gemstone, as well as primary colors, will be remembered easily. Therefore, a gown in a classic cut in black or navy is a good choice when you plan to wear the same dress at various weddings. Alter your wedding guest outfit with accessories, a clutch, and shoes depending on the location and season. Great accessories for wedding guest outfits are, for instance, a hat at a formal wedding brunch on the lawn/deck of a restaurant/hotel, or a faux fur stole for a formal winter wedding outfit.
Of course, a gown in your primary personal style and most flattering color is a great choice as well. You can invest in this gown and make it your statement to wear at all formal events.
Sustainability is a big trend right now.
How to Save When Having to Attend Several Weddings in a Year?
For what to wear to a formal wedding when you are on a budget, see also the suggestions above. However, when you want a different garment each time, browsing thrift stores and consignment shops can keep the costs at bay. Renting an evening gown is another option. But, the cost of renting is often the same as buying inexpensive formal wear.
Tip: When buying cheap formal garment, look for pieces in fabrics that you can shorten and recycle as a normal daytime dress. See how to shorten a high-low hem formal dress, and great ways to recycle an evening gown. Consider that velvet, satin or mesh tulle are easier to alter than chiffon or taffeta.
Diagrams: N. Mölders with photos: Courtesy of Ever Pretty
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