How to choose the perfect dress as a wedding guest 

Fashion

As wedding season approaches, the age-old dilemma of what to wear as a guest resurfaces. How do you find the perfect dress?

With each invitation comes the challenge of choosing a wedding guest dress that strikes the right balance between style, appropriateness and comfort. Whether you’re attending a grand country house affair or a relaxed garden party, selecting the ideal outfit requires careful consideration. 

Below, we share some advice to help you find the perfect wedding guest attire, ensuring you look and feel fabulous while respecting the couple’s special day.

Check the dress code

The first step in choosing your wedding guest dress is to carefully review the invitation for any dress code information. The most common dress codes are:

  • Black tie: Opt for a floor-length gown or a sophisticated cocktail dress
  • Formal: A knee-length or midi dress is appropriate
  • Semi-formal: A cocktail dress or a smart day dress works well
  • Casual: A sundress or a stylish separate ensemble is suitable

If no dress code is specified, err on the side of formality. For most weddings, a smart knee-length or midi dress is a safe choice.

Consider the venue

The are many amazing wedding venues in the UK, and the choice of location wedding plays a crucial role in determining appropriate attire. For a church ceremony, it’s most appropriate to choose a dress with covered shoulders or bring a wrap, while a classic, elegant dress with heels is ideal for a country house. 

Remember to consider practical aspects like terrain and temperature when selecting your outfit and footwear.

Match the season

Your dress choice should also suit the time of year. Pastel colours and floral prints are perfect for Spring, while light fabrics and bright hues work well in summer. During autumn, rich jewel tones and longer sleeves are appropriate, whereas darker colours and heavier fabrics will help you stay cosy during winter. Complete your look with a touch of elegance, accesorize or go for statement church hats.   

Don’t forget to bring a coordinating jacket or wrap for cooler evenings, particularly for outdoor weddings.

Avoid white

Above all, never wear white, cream or any other shade that could be mistaken for the bride’s dress, such as ivory, off-white or very pale pastels. This is the cardinal rule of wedding guest attire, and the only exception is when the wedding invitation calls for it. If in doubt, choose a different colour entirely.

Additionally, you should avoid overly revealing or attention-grabbing outfits. The goal is to look elegant and appropriate without drawing focus from the couple.

By following the advice we’ve outlined above, you’ll be well-equipped to select the perfect dress for any wedding. Remember, the key is to respect the couple’s wishes while expressing your personal style. With the right outfit, you’ll feel confident and ready to celebrate the joyous occasion in style.