Weddings aren’t what they used to be. Rather than cakes, couples are opting for donuts, fancy stationery has been replaced with hand-lettered invitations, and white is no longer the traditional color for a wedding dress.

While all of these changes can send you into a tizzy (especially when you start planning your own wedding!), one thing remains the same: the fashion. As a guest, you don’t want to upstage the bride but you also don’t want to look like a fashion disaster.

To walk that fine line between looking great and looking appropriate, we’ve got you covered. Ready to know what to wear as a guest to a wedding?

Take a look at our do’s and don’ts!

Fashion Don’ts as a Wedding Guest

Let’s dive right into what’s not appropriate to wear as a guest to a wedding. This way, you’ll know what to avoid then we’ll go on to telling you what looks best.

Don’t Wear White

This should be a no-brainer but unfortunately, people still think it’s appropriate to wear white! If you know for sure that the bride has an all-white dress, don’t follow suit and wear a white dress.

Even off-white, eggshell and beige are off-limits. It’s only acceptable if the bride personally asks all of the attendees to wear that color.

This collection can give you a better idea of what the bride might be wearing so you can plan accordingly.

Don’t Show a Lot of Skin

You’ll really be upstaging the bride if everyone can’t take their eyes off of your decolletage. While weddings don’t have strict dress codes as they may have years ago, it’s still not a good idea to bear it all.

Remember, it’s a wedding, not a nightclub. The same thing goes for any article of clothing that has intentional holes and rips.

Don’t Go Too Casual

Some couples prefer their guests to wear clothing that makes them comfortable. This does not give you permission to wear jeans or even pajamas as your outfit–it won’t be that casual. Instead of a dress, jumpsuits are a better alternative as they’re playful yet appropriate.

If you’re able to bring your man along as a plus one, don’t allow him to wear shorts. If he’s worried about being too warm (especially if the wedding takes place outside in the summertime), he can opt for breathable linen pants instead.

Don’t Ignore the Dress Code

Sometimes the bride will specifically request a certain way to dress for her wedding. This could be anything from black tie formal to cocktail attire.

Use this as a guide and not as an opportunity to pull your own agenda. Be respectful and if you’re unsure of what the dress code entails, do your research.

The bride won’t be very happy if you stand out like a sore thumb because you ignored the dress code!

Fashion Do’s as a Wedding Guest

Now that we got the nitty-gritty out of the way, let’s move onto a more positive note–what’s appropriate! Here are the solutions to above don’ts along with other attire that’s great to wear to a wedding.

Do Wear Neutrals

Obviously, white does not count as a neutral in this scenario. But nudes, olive greens, and navy blues are definitely acceptable.

Neutrals are classy and work for any kind of dress code the bride may have. If you don’t want to wear clothing that’s dark, opt for peach, taupe or a light orange.

As far as the rules go for black, it’s best to avoid it. You don’t want to look like you should be at a funeral rather than a wedding.

Do Wear Wedding-appropriate Cut-outs

As stated above, anything with intentional rips and holes is a big no-no. If you want to show a bit of skin, small cut-outs are acceptable.

If the dress you have in mind includes a cut-out in the sternum area, make sure it’s small. There should be no hints of “under-boob” and obviously, you don’t want it to be plunging to where it shows your belly button.

Do Wear a Pantsuit

For those who aren’t so into flowy dresses, know that you can wear a pantsuit as an alternative. To pull off this classy yet stylish look, choose a jacket and pant that coordinates.

You can’t go wrong with dark colors such as a deep navy blue with a light grey shirt.

If you’re still on the fence about a pantsuit, know that it works for all seasons. Let’s say the wedding you’re attending is in the winter. A tweed pantsuit goes a long way as it’ll keep you warm while looking hot!

Do Dress Appropriately for the Venue

Where is the wedding going to be located? If it’ll be in a church and you’re planning to wear a strapless dress, know that it’ll be more appropriate if you cover your shoulders with a shawl.

It’s best to know the venue so you can make adjustments to your outfit if need be. Formal ceremony locations may require a more modest dress code, especially if the bride didn’t specify one.

You’ll also want to know if you’ll be inside or outside. If it’ll be outside on the beach, be sure to wear heeled sandals along with a breezy dress so you’ll be comfortable.

Inside venues can be a little iffy because you never know what the temperature will be like. If you get cold easily, it’s best to dress in layers or wear a thin long sleeve dress.

Now You Know What to Wear as a Guest to a Wedding

Weddings are a joyous time that brings two people in love together for the rest of their lives. While the bride and groom take care of all the planning, it’s your job to know what to wear as a guest to a wedding.

There’s a fine line between looking stylish and looking appropriate. Follow our do’s and don’ts and you’ll be well on your way to the best-dressed list but without upstaging the bride!

Know when the couple will be on their honeymoon? Check out these honeymoon wishes and greetings to welcome them back home!