Can You Wear White To A Wedding As A Guest

Traditionally, the answer to "Can you wear white to a wedding as a guest?" is no, unless the couple getting married has stated otherwise.

This applies not just to white but also to similar shades like ivory, cream, or off-white.

The bride often wears a white wedding dress and should be the only one doing so to stand out on her big day. 

If you're unsure it's safest to avoid this colour palette altogether.

At Villiers Hotel, we've hosted many weddings and are experts in the field.

Read on as we share more of our knowledge on this topic with you.

When White Is Acceptable To Wear

When the couple insists: If the couple specifically requests guests to wear white, then it's perfectly acceptable.

If the couple has given permission: Always check with the couple first. If they give you the go-ahead, then it's fine to wear white on the wedding day.

If you have white accessories: Wearing white accessories like hats, shoes or gloves to compliment your attire is generally acceptable, as long as the main outfit isn't white.

If you're wearing an outfit with white accents: It's okay to wear an outfit like a jumpsuit or dress that has white in it, as long as white isn't the dominant colour.

If you're part of the wedding party: Sometimes bridesmaids or groomsmen may be asked to wear white as part of the wedding party's coordinated outfits.

If the bride isn't wearing white: In some weddings the bride might choose a different colour for her dress making it less of an issue for guests to wear white.

Typical Dress Code For Guests

These are the typical dress codes for wedding guests, though the bride and groom may request specific styles or colour palettes:

Formal Weddings: For black-tie weddings men should wear tuxedos, and women should opt for elegant evening gowns.

Semi-Formal Weddings: Men can wear suits and ties or bows, while women might choose cocktail dresses or dressy separates.

Casual Weddings: Men can wear smart chinos, jeans or trousers with a button-down shirt, and women can opt for sundresses or smart casual outfits.

Beach Weddings: For spring and summer weddings lightweight, breathable fabrics are often ideal. Men can wear smart shorts or trousers and shirts, while women can choose flowy dresses or skirts.

Seasonal Considerations: Dress according to the season. Light fabrics and pastel or bright colours for summer, and darker tones with heavier fabrics for winter.

Ultimately, choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and remember, it's always nice to put in a bit of extra effort for the special occasion.

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We hope you found this guide helpful and informative.

In general wedding guests should avoid wearing white including similar shades like ivory, cream, and off-white, unless the couple has given specific permission.

This helps ensure the bride stands out on her special day and you don't try upstage her.

If your outfit includes these colours in small quantities such as a white pearl piece of jewellery, blue dress with white polka dots or a floral shirt with white and pink, this is usually acceptable.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to keep the couple trying the knot happy.

From all of us at Villiers Hotel, enjoy the wedding festivities ahead!

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FAQs Related To: Can You Wear White To A Wedding As A Guest

Q: What colours can you not wear as a wedding guest?
A: Traditionally, it's best to avoid wearing white or similar shades like ivory, cream, or off-white, as these colours are usually reserved for the bride. It's also polite to steer clear of colours that might clash with the wedding theme or dress code specified by the couple.

Q: What do I do if someone wears white to my wedding?
A: If a guest wears white to your wedding try not to let it affect your day. Focus on enjoying the celebration. If it’s important to address you can gently mention it to the guest or speak with the wedding planner to handle it discreetly, though it may be too late to change anything. To avoid this situation you might want to specifically mention the dress code in your invitations or messages.

Q: Can I wear a blue dress with white flowers to a wedding?
A: Yes, wearing a blue dress with white flowers is generally acceptable. As long as the dress isn't predominantly white. Just ensure the overall look aligns with any specific dress code or theme requested by the bride and groom.