What to Wear to a Wedding: 9 Outfit Ideas That Never Fail to Look Good

August 11, 2021 at 08:00AM

There’s no denying that the wedding industry has been turned on its head over the past year. Plenty of nuptials have been cancelled, re-scheduled or made incredibly low-key over the last 18 months due to the ever-changing rules. But finally, as restrictions are eased even further, weddings appear to be full steam ahead and perhaps more of a big deal than ever. This also means, of course, that we’ll have an excuse to dress up once again (hurrah!), but seeing as we haven’t done much of that of late, we all could do with a few reminders of how to actually get dressed for big events such as this. And this is how we’re here to help. 

We all have to walk that fine line when it comes to deciding what to wear to a wedding: You want to look striking, somewhat fun, but still appropriate. You want to be remembered for the right reasons, even if it isn’t your day whatsoever. Well, there are some basic ground rules worth referencing before rushing to the big day in a floral-print panic. We’ve covered the official dressing dos and don’ts of formalwear so that you can be the best-dressed guest at all manner of nuptials and high-society soirées  – with zero wardrobe stresses.

From the ‘wow’ dresses that are guaranteed to make a big impact – without outshining the bride – to the heels that’ll see you through the ceremony to the after-party. We’ve also cracked the code and found the wedding guest ‘rules’ that are actually worth breaking (including black dresses) and now, with our help, you’ll be in good stead to say yes to all those upcoming invites. Consider this your guide on how to dress for weddings, no matter how big or small. 

So whether you have a city wedding to attend, a religious ceremony to consider carefully or you just don’t want to have a miffed bride on your hands (no white lace, okay?), this is a good place to start. We can all lose our heads when a swanky event comes a-knocking, but it’s really just a case of being fully prepared for every eventuality—and learning from some of our own fashion faux pas. Those strappy stilettos looked great online, yes, but were they really cut out for a marquee reception in a field? Not so much. Click through to read the nine rules for what to wear to a wedding when you’re just not sure.

If you’re struggling to compile the perfect trousers, top and jacket combination with ease, then simply reach for one of your trusty statement dresses. Add heels or fancy flats, a few choice accessories and the makeup that makes you feel good. Perfection.

Next up, the biggest autumn/winter 2021 fashion trends to know. 

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Author Philippa Morgan Walker | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC