Can you wear red to a wedding? Style experts deliver their verdict
If you’ve been asking if you can wear red to a wedding, you’re not alone. While there is a very clear stance on wearing white to someone else’s nuptials (it’s a no), wearing red is more debatable.
An age-old summer pursuit, working out what to wear to a wedding, is one of the biggest sartorial dilemmas of the summer, and while style codes have undoubtedly relaxed over time, upstaging the bride remains an absolute no-go.
Subsequently, many ask about wearing bold colours such as red, and generally speaking, like everything else when it comes to wedding attire, if you’re unsure, it is always best to check with the bride. Refer to your invite for any specific dress codes as a starting point, and take note of the venue and type of wedding to help you pick the best wedding guest dress.
Can you wear red to a wedding?
The colour of love, many would say that red is an excellent choice for a wedding, symbolising happiness and passion, but you might not know of this old wives’ tale, there is a school of thought that suggests wearing red to a wedding implies you’ve had a relationship with the groom. Yes, really.
While many on the woman&home team would deem this thought outdated in 2025, including the fashion team, for some, even the slightest implication that someone could misinterpret their outfit choice has left them with a self-imposed ban.
Lifestyle writer, Emily Smith, is horrified at the thought: “I’m always extremely conscious of what I choose to wear to weddings, I find it to be a bit of a nightmare sometimes knowing what is the appropriate length, pattern and cut of dress. But one thing I’ll always avoid is wearing red. I know it’s a very old tradition, but ever since hearing that it means you’ve had a relationship with the groom, I don’t dare choose the colour. I even stopped my mum from wearing it to a family wedding, although I doubt anyone else would bat an eyelid!”
However freelance fashion editor and stylist, Antonia Kraskowski, disagrees. “Red symbolises love and I have worn red to a wedding before, I love a bright colour for a wedding, after all, it is a happy occasion, and a dose of dopamine dressing helps to reflect the joy of the day.”
According to woman&home fashion editor, Rivkie Baum, red is not a colour that she would consider banned at weddings.
“This bright hue is ideal for a summer or winter wedding and is also one of this season’s biggest fashion colour trends, so I expect to see plenty of party and occasionwear in various shades of red. As with the best black wedding guest dresses, while it may have previously been seen as an inappropriate colour, as black dresses are considered a little more sombre. In 2025, this rule no longer applies, and I believe the same is true of rocking a LRD (little red dress).”
Always check with the bridal party if red is an issue
It may seem like an outdated viewpoint in 2025, but some people take this old wives’ tale to heart, or might find a red outfit too bright, as it could upstage the bride. It is always best to check with the bridal party if you are unsure, as the last thing you want to do is upset the happy couple.
“My mum was horrified that my friend wore a red silk dress to my ’90s wedding,” Ecommerce editor, Heidi Scrimgeour explains, “and even more horrified when she realised she was doing a reading in the church!”
Although wearing red may ruffle a few feathers, if the bride is not bothered, we’d say it is pretty safe to wear red to a wedding in 2025. So much so, we’ve rounded up 3 of the best red wedding guest pieces to wear this season that will turn heads for all the right reasons.
Mint Velvet
Red Full Skirt Midi Dress
This gorgeous red dress might be a bold colour, but its elegant length and boat neckline keep it chic. The gathered hip details create a full, swishy skirt, perfect for the dancefloor and for adding curves. Pair it with neutral accessories to make the dress the standout piece.
Phase Eight
Saffron Jumpsuit
Flattering jumpsuits are a wardrobe staple when it comes to wedding season, and this cropped hem red iteration is ideal if you want a one-and-done outfit with more of a trouser silhouette. The high round neck and crossover detail mean no necklace is needed with this look.
Next
Red Adjustable Back Tailored Blazer
Thanks to the latest runway trends, the best women’s trouser suits have come into their own this season. This deep red jacket and matching trousers are a smart way to wear red to a wedding, that doesn’t risk upstaging the bride.
If you are going to wear red to a wedding, err on the side of caution and really consider the silhouette of your outfit. Opt for slightly longer hemlines or less plunging necklines to give a more demure and polished finish to your bright ensemble. You can even opt for a darker jacket or accessories to balance the brightness.
Most importantly, you should feel comfortable in your outfit of choice, as weddings can be extremely long days, wear your chosen look with confidence for winning style.
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