It’s generally best to avoid wearing white to a wedding unless the couple specifically requests it. White is traditionally reserved for the bride, and wearing it as a guest can be seen as upstaging her or disregarding established etiquette.
Pros:
If the couple requests guests to wear white, it is perfectly acceptable and can align with a special theme.
A white outfit with bold patterns or worn as an accessory (like a jacket or shawl with a different-coloured dress) may sometimes be considered appropriate, although caution is still advised.
Cons:
It can be seen as disrespectful or attention-seeking, as it may overshadow the bride.
Most cultures and traditional etiquette advise against it, unless explicitly stated otherwise by the couple.
Even off-white or very light shades are often best avoided, as they can still resemble bridal attire.
Unless the couple has specifically said it’s okay, the safest choice is to avoid wearing white to a wedding. Choose a different colour to ensure respect for the couple and tradition.
The safest colours to wear to a wedding…
Those that do not resemble white or extremely light shades. Popular and appropriate choices include jewel tones (such as emerald, sapphire, and ruby), pastels (like blush, lavender, or powder blue), bold colours (like red, cobalt, or mustard), florals, and darker, muted hues (such as navy, charcoal, or burgundy).
It’s best to avoid white, off-white, ivory, cream, eggshell, beige, champagne, or any super light colours that could be mistaken for bridal attire. Ultimately, choosing colours that are vibrant, patterned, or distinctly different from white will ensure a safe and respectful choice as a wedding guest.
Men should avoid wearing white or any colours that closely resemble white.
Avoid wearing colours like off-white, eggshell, beige, cream, champagne, or other very light shades, as these are typically reserved for the bride and may be seen as inappropriate or distracting at a wedding.
Additionally, it’s advisable to steer clear of outfits that might be mistaken for the groom’s attire or that are overly flashy. The key point in current etiquette is to avoid wearing white and similar light colours.
We offer a wide range of Mother of the Bride outfits, as well as fantastic Special Occasion Wear.
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