What not to wear to a wedding, this should be what you think about when you are deciding what to wear to a wedding. Oh, the list is long and I am sure a few people will be offended, but I have to say something. I just can’t sit here and chill and continue to see so many fashion faux pas and blatant disregard for someone’s special day by clueless wedding guests. I am going to say you are clueless if you have worn any of the items I will list. There’s no way you knew that sock and sandals or those hideous Toe shoes aren’t okay footwear. I am going to give you the benefit of the doubt and just simply assume that you are among the clueless with regard to what not to wear to a wedding.
It’s your friend’s, family member or co-workers special day. They have been spending months planning for their special day as well as saving and spending to make this day memorable. They’ve taken the time to get every detail just right and found the perfect suits, gowns, and shoes to wear. They want to look their best, it’s a special day. As much as this day is all about them, they also want their guests to look their best…it’s a celebration after all!
Unless you are attending a themed wedding that states what to wear, use the guidelines below if ever you are unsure. Further, if the wedding is themed please dress accordingly, this is not the time to exert your individuality by wearing whatever the f**k you want. People aren’t looking at you because you went rogue and it’s cool, they are wondering if you are aware that you are simply being rude.
What Not To Wear To A Wedding:
- Socks and sandals, eww are you kidding me?! Just no.
- A dress that looks like a gown…do you hate or love the bride? I am not sure what it is but for some reason, some girls forget girl code and having your back when they attend a wedding. What do I mean by gown? A dress that looks like a wedding dress! Throw on a vale…and it’s your wedding. I don’t care if it’s couture or has small embellishments on it, it’s not cool. You should never upstage the bride…NEVER.
- DO NOT WEAR WHITE. If it’s not an all-white wedding theme don’t even think about it. You know this is a shady move. It’s one day, so don’t be selfish. It’s still a white dress if the majority of it is white except a flower on it or little details. If white is the main colour base of the fabric, it’s still a white dress. There are so many beautiful dresses to choose from, I am sure you can find something beautiful that isn’t white.
- Iron your shirt! Everyone can see your wrinkled shirt in wedding pictures.
- Ugly sunglasses, you know the ones you get for free with the neon frame. The shades you wear to a music festival or while chilling with your friends. They look ridiculous and make it look like you don’t really care and would rather be dancing the night away at a festival in the desert.
- No Casual Shorts! Gentlemen and ladies, this is not wedding appropriate. The exception to this rule for ladies is formal/dressy and classy rompers/jumpsuits or long dress shorts paired with a blouse (silk or linen). In other words, not your basic romper/shorts/jumpsuit.
- If it’s your usual club attire chances are it’s not wedding attire. Tiny crop tops and a tight skirt is a no-no.
- Jeans are never a good idea. I know some weddings are casual therefore if the bride and groom say it’s okay in their dress code to wear jeans, wear a pair that can pass for dress pants. Pair your jeans with a nice dress shirt, belt and shoes.
- Heavy makeup. If you love makeup, this as an opportunity to experiment with different hues and shades that make you look luminous and glamorous.
- Too much perfume/cologne. A dash is more than enough. Remember you will be sitting in very close proximity to other guests. I am sure you know what it’s like to sit next to someone who has overdone it, don’t be this person.
- No golf hats or fishing hats. Invest in a good hat that’s meant for special occasions.
I hope this guide steers you in the right direction. People spend a lot of money on their weddings and wedding photographer. There’s nothing worse than looking at photos and seeing people who didn’t take the time to look their best.
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Erika Ann
Thanks for these tips! These are all great reminders. I’ll be attending a wedding of a friend of mine and i don’t know what are the appropriate things to wear.
Hanifa Sekandi
Hello Erika,
I am glad you liked it! Yes, a lot of people don’t know, so I thought I would help. I am sure you will look great at the wedding! Have a good day.