Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Guests: what not to wear to a wedding



Our top five things to remember when dressing for a wedding.

We all know that the bride-to-be will have spent hours working out what she is going to wear to her big day, so it’s best that your attire doesn’t attract the wrong kind of attention.
We get asked all the time if there are any rules for what guests can and can’t wear to a wedding. Sometimes there are and sometime there aren’t. It all depends on the wedding. So here we have narrowed it down to the top 5 things to remember.

1.    Avoid wearing white
Unless specified on the invitation, do not wear white. There is only one person at a wedding that should be wearing a white dress and that is the bride. Obviously if you know the bride well and she says it’s fine, then it is. However unless you are specifically told it is OK, we suggest avoiding white.

2.    Read the invitation
You’d be surprised how many people don’t take notice of any dress codes specified on the invite. If the bride and groom have taken the time to offer a dress code, then it’s obviously for a reason. Make sure you read and take note. If you’re unsure what ‘smart casual’ or ‘cocktail’ entails, ask your friends, anyone else you know attending and Google it! Don’t be shy, it’s better to ask than turn up in inappropriate attire, or be only guest not wearing a hat (remember the uproar when British Prime Minister, David Cameron's, wife didn't wear a hat to the royal wedding).

3.    Wear appropriate shoes
There is nothing more unattractive than a guest who can’t walk in their shoes. Therefore, nothing too high (unless you’re a natural), and nothing too uncomfortable. Make sure you have taken note of the wedding location. If it is a beach wedding, we strongly suggest flats or an appropriate wedge. Stilettos and sand do not mix! Similarly if it is a garden wedding, bear in mind you will be spending a lot of time on grass and soil. And don’t forget you need to be prepared for any kind of weather.

4.    Avoid anything too short or too low cut
This is generally never a good look, so it definitely isn’t one at a wedding. And this may be stating the obvious but under no circumstances should you go for short and low cut at the same time! Short dresses can definitely be appropriate but by short we mean above the knee or mid-thigh and if choosing the latter ensure the event does not state black tie or full length gowns.

5.    Dress appropriately for religious buildings and places of worship
Either your connection with the bride and groom, or the wedding invitation, should give you a clear idea as to whether the event will be held in a religious building. If so, make note of the religion and any associated dress codes. Chances are if this is the case, a dress code will be stated on the invite, however if it’s not, make sure you double check or look it up online. Certain places of worship have strict rules and guidelines as to what can be worn inside, such as covered shoulders.

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