What to Wear as a Wedding Guest
Written by Lindsey Chronert
It was July of 2021, and after years of wedding hiatus due to the pandemic, I finally had the chance to attend a long-awaited friend’s nuptials. I had been patiently waiting for the perfect occasion to rock a new bold and gorgeous silk emerald green dress. With my hair elegantly styled in a simple bun, donning a pair of oversized earrings, and slipping into a sleek gold heel, I was ready to make a statement and have a little fun!
As I arrived at the venue, the excitement in the air was palpable as friends embraced. The atmosphere was brimming with love and anticipation. Little did I know that my outfit choice would soon become the topic of conversation. During the reception, as I mingled with friends and family, the wedding photographer approached me with a smile. "We decided," she said, "You won best dressed at the wedding. We love your outfit." In that moment, I felt a sense of validation. It made me realize the impact that guest attire has on the ambiance of a wedding.
It sparked a new perspective within me. What if the aesthetic of the guests was just as significant as the meticulously arranged flowers or the carefully curated playlist? What if we all embraced the idea of trying to win best dressed—treating our friend's wedding as if it were our own personal MET Gala? Imagine the excitement and anticipation that would add to the special day. And wouldn't the couple be overjoyed to see their loved ones looking their absolute best—radiating confidence and style? The answer is a resounding, "hell yes." Let's embark on this fashion journey together, exploring the realms of wedding guest attire that transcends expectations. It's time to elevate wedding guest fashion to a whole new level.
Decoding the Dress Code: One of the first steps in determining what to wear as a wedding guest is deciphering the dress code. The invitation usually provides hints about the level of formality expected, whether it's black tie, cocktail attire, or something more casual. But there's more you can do to ensure you hit the mark. Look for clues on the wedding website or the invitation itself. Pay attention to the colors included, as they often hint at the wedding's style or color palette. You don't want to be mistaken for someone in the wedding party, but incorporating complementary colors can add a nice touch to your ensemble.
Consider the Venue: The venue holds valuable clues that can guide your outfit choices. If the wedding takes place in a museum, art gallery, or contemporary urban space, take this opportunity to embrace bold color choices or patterns that reflect the artistic atmosphere. On the other hand, if the venue is nestled by the waterfront or on a beautiful beach, consider a coastal-inspired look with light fabrics like linen and breezy silhouettes that capture the laid-back vibe.
Black Tie Means One Thing: Classic black tuxedos and floor-length gowns. Why not embrace a touch of androgyny and rock a sleek black tux for a moment of boldness? Don’t limit yourself to a mundane black dress. Make a statement. Bold colors, silk, chiffon or layers of tulle are having a moment, along with high slits, plunging necklines, open backs and balloon sleeves. While you don’t want to be Tems at the Oscars during the ceremony, I would be delighted to see a guest in a hooded gown (pictured far left). Maybe just save its debut for when you’re on the dance floor!
Formal Weddings: Formal weddings ride a fine line between black tie and cocktail. Embrace the elegance with floor-length gowns with a slimmer cut. Incorporate playful fabrics like feathers or oversized ruffles. Sophisticated cocktail dresses made from luxurious fabrics like jacquard, satin or lace all touch on the formal dress code. I also love a cape, colored pant suit and matching with your BFF (and your date).
Embracing Cocktail and Semi-Formal Style: Opt for knee-length dresses, stylish jumpsuits, or chic sets. My personal preferences is to never see a mini dress at a wedding. If you are going above the knee, opt for a high neckline or full coverage. This isn’t a high school homecoming. Experiment with different necklines, textures, and prints to express your unique style while staying true to the occasion. And remember, there’s no such thing as being overdressed.
Pay Attention to Accessories: Accessories are the icing on the cake. They elevate your wedding guest ensemble to new heights. Add more to your outfit with colored block heels, oversized statement earrings, or a stylish clutch that compliments your outfit. Remember, moderation is key. Let your accessories enhance your overall look without overpowering it. One great piece of advice I’ve heard is that if you’re questioning your accessories, take off the last piece you just put on. Go simple.
The most important piece of any outfit is the confidence! As you make your grand entrance into the wedding venue, let that self-assured aura shine through. Remember, it's not just about looking good—it's about adding an extra dose of magic to the atmosphere. Make it an experience to remember for both the couple and yourself. Your presence, your fashion choices, and your genuine celebration of love will set you apart as the best dressed guest at any wedding. Cheers to love, unforgettable moments, and your well-deserved title of the best dressed guest!
