It’s wedding season, and without the looming threat of restrictions and cancellations, we’re set on making the most of it. 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 over the past couple of years, 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—by running you through some no-fail wedding guest outfit solutions.
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 what to wear to a wedding, 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.
We love this colour for spring.
Brown isn’t a hue we commonly associate with wearing to weddings, but this shimmery fabrication makes it feel so special.
A brand we think we’re going to see a lot of this season.
The most beautiful fabric.
While we would never want to be prescriptive when it comes to dress styles, we would say that it’s worth bearing in mind that you end up sitting down for long periods of time at weddings, and sometimes mini dresses aren’t ideal for this purpose. A midi will not only look supremely elegant, but it will also end up being more practical and comfortable in the long run.
Although black is a strong option (more on that in a moment), navy presents a softer base tone.
The off-the-shoulder neckline allows for a statement necklace moment.
If you’re at a city wedding it’s likely you’ll wear something different from a countryside do. Same goes for destination nuptials (whenever we’re allowed to travel again) or something low-key that’s designed to be more of a party.
Don’t worry about the white in this dress—the black spots ensure it doesn’t enter bridal territory.
A fashionable alternative to fascinators.
The perfect jewellery to finish with.
Espadrilles are probably the one of the most comfortable wedding guest shoe options (flip-flops aside).
The modern world has ushered in many wonderful changes: iPhones, Headspace, cronuts, oh and the acceptance of wearing black at weddings and baptisms. Black once was the mark of doom and gloom, but now it’s a tone for the chic urbanites. Wear it to weddings, and wear it with aplomb!
A dress you’ll absolutely get the wear out of after the fact.
Large tote bags and cumbersome shoulder bags don’t really say "special occasion.“ Rather, they make it look like you’re going on a daylong trek across the urban jungle. Go minimal and head out to the wedding with a micro or clutch bag, cutting loose from your heavy accessories for a day. Think of it as a handbag detox.
Lilac is a huge trend for 2022.
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White accessories won’t detract from your outfit, whatever you choose to wear.
A bag we’ve been eyeing for months.
This handbag looks so much more expensive than it actually is.
There’s nothing worse than climbing into a pair of heels only to find that you are limping across the dance floor a mere few hours later. Find the comfy elevated shoes that will party harder than all your other footwear.
Dream shoe alert.
We’ll take any excuse to adorn our feet with oversized bows.
These come in so many versatile shades, though sage might be our favourite.
Platforms are always more comfortable than they look.
There are lots of religious wedding ceremonies that may take place in sacred spaces that require a respectful covered-up dress code. Think royal enclosure at Ascot and wear thick straps and take a generous silk scarf to drape across your décolletage or wear sleeves to nail the issue in one. That, or opt for a chic blazer.
This hot pink shade will amp up pastel dresses.
You’ll be surprised at how much this sage blazer goes with.
Cropped blazers also do the job.
This looks so high-end.
If you’re not sure about your outfit and there isn’t a clear dress code, it’s always a good idea to check with the bride. Pro tip: Make sure it’s at least a couple weeks before the big day, as the bride will most likely have bigger things on her mind the days running up to the wedding and will not appreciate a text hours before she’s about to walk down the aisle. And if you’re still not sure, stick with a suit, jumpsuit or classic wedding-guest dress.
Fabulous!
And it only gets more fabulous when feathers are involved.
Such a gorgeous print.
Subtle cut-outs make for a directional wedding guest look.
The rental market has massive grown over the last year or two and it’s perfectly set-up for occasions such as these. If you want to wear a different look to every wedding you attend then consider renting something from a platforms such as Rotaro or Hurr. You’ll get all the newness thrill without the expense and fear that you won’t wear it more than once. Plus, because it’s just for one event you can usually afford to rent a designer piece that would usually be out of your budget.
Black tie wedding? Sequins should be on the menu.
Our editors have their eyes on this dress for summer weddings.
This will pair beautifully with shades like tangerine and pink for a chic clash.
The ruffles, the off-the-shoulder neckline, the colour—this is peak wedding guest.
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