Going to a wedding this year? Avoid this one faux-pas
As the weather warms, one thing’s for certain: it’s wedding season.
And with invites cluttering up our fridges and endless holidays to book to squeeze in all those nuptials, the endless question looms. What to wear?
With hundreds – nay, thousands – of unwritten rules around what one can and cannot wear to weddings, slip-ups are natural. Getting carried away at the open bar? Easily done. How about showing up to the reception with an uninvited plus one? Well, they’re driving you home after all.
Fashion is no different. Recently, red wedding guest dresses have been having something of a moment, with an 1880 per cent increase in search since the beginning of May: that is, over 214k searches.
However, the trend is also surprisingly controversial. After all, there’s a fine line between stylish and inappropriate.
“Really, the only ‘rule’ is for women, who should avoid wearing all-white,” says etiquette expert Jo Hayes. “Anything that looks too close to what the bride will be wearing is a no-go. This also includes very light shades of cream or very pale pastels. A woman appearing in long, all-white (or, very pale) gown is erring far too close to the bride’s outfit and could potentially be trying to steal the spotlight.”
But red can also be dangerous ground. “Western cultures consider red blatantly conspicuous and would even think it inappropriate if it dressed too ‘sexily’ for a formal wedding. Black is still another colour that presents a challenge,” dating coach Emily Thompson adds.
“Contemporary weddings may tolerate its use, but the previous generations will link it symbolically with mourning.”
With wedding upon wedding looming on the horizon, what’s the best way to stay within etiquette boundaries?
Sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly hard to do well.
“That means following the dress code on the invite, whether it’s black tie or cocktail – and never assume ‘casual’ means jeans and a pair of trainers,” says Nicola Barker, head of buying at Suit Direct.
“Even at a laid-back venue, it’s still a special event, so I’d always advise to dress slightly up rather than down.”
Incorporate colour thoughtfully
Think about the colour scheme, if there is one, before going for a bold shade or bright print. While you don’t have to blend in, it’s a thoughtful gesture that avoids detracting attention from the bride, groom and their respective bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Image by Pexels from Pixabay
Reaching for something in the closet? Try it on beforehand. Bodies change and so do tailoring standards. If it doesn’t fit quite right, make sure to get alterations booked in.
And by essentials, we mean stuff that might save you during the big day. That means a lint roller, a portable steamer (if you have one), a mini sewing kit and a few safety pins – as well as fashion tape. It could be the difference between a look and a disaster.
Don’t interfere with the groom’s look
Main character issue can be a problem at weddings – especially if it’s not your big day. For men, that means skipping white dinner jackets, any kind of statement pieces or even tuxedos, that will draw attention in photos and the like. After all, that’s the duty of the groom and groomsmen.
Reformation
Fortunately, the internet abounds with great options for wedding dresses. Reformation is a classic for a reason: their Diara dress comes in a very of-the-moment polka dot pattern, but also comes in a floral or brown shade that works especially well with the halter neck and open back.
If that doesn’t float your boat, French brand Sessùn has a great selection of chic, long dresses that fit the brief while also looking stylish. Try the Lilithi in a blushed rose shade for something that blends in while also looking great. And of course, boho favourites Nobody’s Child offer excellent options that don’t break the bank while also being eco-friendly — such as their cobalt blue strapless satin dress here.
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