What to wear to a wedding

Woman in floral patterned long length dress lying across outdoor steps
Editorial team

Read on for tips on appropriate and stylish outfits for wedding guests, no matter the dress code

A wedding invitation can induce several feelings simultaneously – happiness and excitement, sure, but also some trepidation about what to wear. If it’s an all-day affair, for example, you’ll likely need occasionwear that effortlessly takes you from daytime mingling to late-night dancefloor action.

You might be the kind of person who starts planning their outfit the moment the invitation arrives, or you may be in the last-minute style-seeking camp. Either way, here’s what to wear to a wedding when you’re not part of the core wedding party. 

Got multiple occasions coming up and don’t want to splurge on buying a new look each time? Check out John Lewis Rental for wow-factor outfits: simply rent, wear and return.

What is the dress code for a wedding guest?

First up, check the invite for any mention of a dress code, such as black tie. There are fewer fashion rules for weddings these days, so it’s likely that you’ll have the freedom to wear whatever you like - however there are still a few things to remember.

Make sure you consider the ceremony venue and location. For some religious ceremonies it’s respectful to have covered shoulders, and a seriously plunging neckline might not be appropriate - if in doubt lean towards modesty. Play it safe with a sleeved dress, or simply throw a shawl or cardigan over a strappy frock for that part of the celebrations.

What colours should not be worn to a wedding?

White is obviously off limits, as well as creams, off-whites and anything too bridal - unless you want to draw gasps for all the wrong reasons. Think twice before wearing black, which can be the antithesis of party vibes, unless you’re heavily accessorising with other colours. 

A jumpsuit or a patterned or print dress are safe bets to avoid matching the wedding party, because no one wants to turn up accidentally looking like a bonus bridesmaid.

 If in doubt, ask the hosts about the colour palette to figure out what shades to avoid. Then you can feel confident choosing a neutral such as gold, soft pink or brown, or a vibrant rainbow shade. 

What should you not wear to a wedding?

It can be easy to misinterpret the freedom to wear ‘anything’ as ‘anything goes’, and end up looking too casual. The golden rule is don’t go too low-key - it’s always better to be overdressed.

That doesn’t mean you have to go for a ballgown and skyscraper heels, but it does mean making an effort; T-shirts, trainers, jeans and athleisure are no-nos. If you want to invest in something you’ll wear again, try a more everyday-style dress. Boden’s Amelie dress is super easy to wear (it even has pockets…) and add block heels plus a fab bag and accessories for the big day, then style with trainers and a slouchy shirt for years to come. Still unsure? Ask friends what they're wearing because there’s safety in numbers, or book a free appointment with a John Lewis stylist to help find what suits you best.

Weatherproof your look

British weather can be unpredictable – it is what it is. Even if the wedding is in August, you do need plan for every eventuality. If it’s likely that you’re going to want a cover-up, such as a jacket or cardigan, try to consider it when building the rest of your outfit to ensure a seamless look. A duster coat suits anything from a shorter wedding guest dress to a midi dress to a jumpsuit, while faux-fur styles are a great option for cooler temperatures.

It’s also worth noting that if you choose chic tailored separates rather than a dress, you automatically have a wedding-appropriate blazer to keep you warm during the outdoor photo call. 

How to dress for a wedding abroad

First, consider the location. Is it a city wedding, a beach ceremony or a vineyard venue? Next, think about how hot it could be. Try to plan your outfit aligned to these factors and you’ll not only nail fitting in with everyone else but also ensure you feel comfortable. Often weddings abroad mean guests can choose relaxed style, but unless it says so in the invite, avoid anything ultra-casual. Chic separates are spot on for an urban wedding, especially in lighter natural fabrics such as cotton and linen

An easy-breezy, floaty midi or maxi dress is forever on-trend, and a great way to heatwave-proof your outfit. Off-the-shoulder Bardot-style dresses are another great choice. Remember, overly tight-fitting clothes tend to be less forgiving in warmer weather, so anything that allows air to circulate is a big win.

If it’s going to be sandy - or grassy, for that matter - think carefully about footwear. Heels are a no-go, but if you still want some height try a wedge.

Add statement accessories

As a wedding guest, the worst-case scenario is turning up to see someone else wearing the same outfit as you. One way to avoid this is with bold accessories that add personality and ensure your look is individual.

A pop of colour, such as a brightly coloured clutch bag, makes a neutral or monochrome look sparkle. Go all out with statement jewellery, an oversized hair accessory, or even a hat. Yes, you read that right. It used to be that most wedding guests would wear a hat or fascinator. Now they’re less common, making them a real head-turner (pun intended). 

Stick to your own style

It’s easy to get an idea in your head of what wedding guest outfits should look like, then wander far from your usual style in pursuit of that image. The best advice? Stick to what you’re comfortable in. So if you’re a jeans and T-shirt kind of person, try smart trousers and a beautiful blouse.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box by considering a jumpsuit – aka the ultimate cool-girl take on occasionwear – or even a statement co-ord set.

If you don’t usually wear heels, think carefully: are you going to feel comfortable walking in them for a whole day and night? Probably not. There are lots of great occasion flats to choose from – high heels aren’t the only wedding footwear option (and in some cases, such as for an outdoor event, they may not be suitable). 

Woman wearing navy blue suit jacket and trousers standing in front of a metallic wall

Wedding guest inspiration for him

The dress code for men is usually a little more clear cut, and you can hire a great new look from top names such as Hugo Boss, Charles Tyrwhitt and Gant from John Lewis Rental. The big question is, how long before a wedding should you hire a suit? Well, you need to make sure it fits, so give yourself a buffer of a few days. John Lewis has great value rental options for hire for four, eight, 16 or 30 days, from just £30.

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