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Updated Mar 06, 2025What to Wear to a Wedding as a Guest, According to Industry Experts
Even the best dressed guests need advice from time to time.
If you're anything like us, you probably start thinking about what to wear to a wedding the second you send off your RSVP. As any seasoned guest knows, the last thing you want to do is procrastinate picking out your look until it's the night before the wedding and you feel like you have nothing to wear. Not to mention, there are plenty of things to consider when choosing your attire (we'll dive into that later).
If you find yourself asking "What should I wear to a wedding as a guest?," you're not alone. In fact, it's one of the most common questions guests have. And, lucky for you, we know the answer. In this comprehensive wedding guest fashion guide, you'll find expert-approved tips on deciding what to wear (and what not to wear) to a wedding based on the guidelines outlined on a couple's wedding website. Plus, to give you the easiest shopping experience possible, we've even included a few of our favorite places to shop for outfits to wear for a wedding.
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What to Wear to a Wedding as a Guest
If you're not sure how to dress for a wedding, we've got you covered. When it comes to wedding fashion etiquette, there are a few rules that'll help you find an outfit that's appropriate and stylish. Brush up on these fool-proof tips below before you start shopping so you can pick out the best clothes for weddings..
1. Follow the Dress Code
The dress code is the most important factor to take into consideration when deciding what to wear at a wedding. This information can usually be found on the invitation or on the couple's wedding website. If there isn't a dress code listed, we recommend reaching out to the couple for their attire expectations.
There are countless different dress codes and themes, but the most common ones are white-tie, black-tie, black-tie optional, formal, cocktail, semi-formal and casual. Once you know what each dress code means, you'll be able to make an informed decision on what to wear to a wedding.
"If the dress code is black-tie, for instance, then there is only one correct outfit for guys: a black tuxedo," explains Brian Sacawa, style expert and creator of The Groom Guide. "Guests should also have the appropriate tuxedo shirt, a stud set and cufflinks in a matching metal, either a cummerbund or vest waist covering, black bow tie, white pocket square and black patent leather shoes," Sacawa adds. Similarly, women are encouraged to dress up in a floor-length evening gown or an elegant dress.
Fashion rules for a casual daytime wedding, on the other hand, are much different. "You can never go wrong with a navy blazer, a blue button-down shirt or khaki pants for a casual wedding," says Virginia-based wedding style expert Monte Durham. "And, for ladies, you can always opt for a dress with a nice neckline and simple accessories."
Check out our wedding dress code guides to learn more: White-Tie | Black-Tie | Black-Tie Optional | Formal | Cocktail | Semi-Formal | Dressy Casual | Casual | Western
2. Shop by Seasonality
In addition to the dress code, the time of day and the season the wedding is in can give further fashion insight. "The season and location of the wedding are great indicators of what to wear," says Ranu Coleman, CMO of wedding fashion brand, Azazie. "For example, if it's a beach wedding, that's an indicator that you shouldn't show up in a formal dress. Summer weddings usually lean towards shorter styles with lighter colors, while a fall wedding caters to darker jewel-toned colors and richer fabrics like velvet and silk," Coleman explains.
Durham, who also appears on TLC's Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta, recommends browsing styles that are currently on the racks to find an outfit that's seasonally appropriate. "Shopping in-person at a traditional store can help you find what to wear," he explains. "If you're attending a winter wedding, you'll find outfits with wool, cashmere and velvet, as well as blazers, jackets and heavier shoes. If you're invited to a wedding in the height of summer, you're going to respond to what's on the rack: fabrics that are sheer, lightweight, flowy and comfortable. Take your cue from what's in the stores when shopping," Durham says.
For more insight into how to dress for the season, check out these attire guides: What to Wear to a Summer Wedding | What to Wear to a Fall Wedding | What to Wear to a Winter Wedding | What to Wear to a Spring Wedding
3. Consider Cultural Etiquette
Appropriate clothes for a wedding can vary between different cultures and religions. This is especially true when it comes to what colors to wear as a wedding guest. We all know that wearing white to a wedding is frowned upon, but did you know that in some cultures, like Indian, Pakistani and Chinese, it's discouraged to wear red to a wedding?
Color isn't the only thing to be mindful of when picking out your look. Some religions also have rules about how much skin you show in a place of worship. That being said, if you're attending a ceremony at a church, temple or mosque, a modest wedding guest dress or suit may be required.
If you're not a member of the same culture or religion as the couple getting married, you might not know what is and isn't appropriate to wear to their event. When in doubt, ask the couple. After all, no one knows the dress code better than them. They'll be able to point you in the direction of wedding appropriate outfits.
Learn more about appropriate attire for cultural weddings: What to Wear to an Indian Wedding | What to Wear to a Catholic Wedding | What to Wear to a Mormon Wedding | What to Wear to a Muslim Wedding | What to Wear to a Jewish Wedding
4. Use the Venue as a Guide
The wedding location offers clues as to what type of clothing and shoes you should wear. A beach wedding, for instance, will require you to put a bit more thought into footwear than an indoor event. "If you're outside, opt for a chunky heel for walking purposes because if you wear a kitten heel or a stiletto, you might risk sinking into the grass or sand. If indoors, you can never go wrong with a pump heel," Durham adds.
Be sure to do some research into the venue prior to the event so that you know what to expect. Looking at photos on the venue's website or social media page will help you understand what clothes and shoes are appropriate to wear to a wedding on their property.
5. Avoid Wearing White
By now, we're sure you know the golden rule of wedding guest attire. Like we mentioned above, you should never wear white to a wedding unless explicitly directed to by the couple. "While it's probably obvious to most guests, it's important not to wear any shade of white to a wedding unless it's specifically stated in the invitation," Coleman adds. In some instances, the couple might request that guests wear white to match a particular theme. Before picking your outfit, confirm that this is the requested guest attire by double-checking the instructions on the invite.
Now, you might wonder if men can wear white to a wedding, or if you can wear a dress with a white print. Rest assured; It's perfectly appropriate to wear a white dress shirt under a tuxedo or suit jacket. Similarly, it's also acceptable to wear a dress or a jumpsuit with a hint of white as long as it's not the main color. When choosing your attire to wear to a wedding, use your best judgment and don't pick pieces that are primarily white.
6. Accessorize Your Outfit
Clothes are just one piece of the puzzle when finding the perfect outfit for wedding guests. Accessories have the power to completely enhance your look. "Jewelry completes an outfit," says Meaghan Rose, founder and CEO of jewelry subscription company, Rocksbox. "You can have a beautiful dress, but having the perfect earrings or a necklace to compliment the neckline of your outfit pulls everything together," Rose says. Likewise, you might consider completing your look with a bag to match your dress.
The same is true of men's wedding guest attire. Accents like a colorful pocket square, a printed tie or a sleek belt will upgrade any tux or suit. "My favorite accessory is a suspender," explains Andrew Roberts, CEO of luxury accessory brand, Del Toro. "Alternatively, a classic wristwatch or a vintage piece will always be a good conversation starter. Or, a signet ring worn on the pinky finger is subtle, but will drive up the style quotient of anyone wearing it," Roberts continues.
If you're choosing what to wear to a wedding on a budget, intentional accessories can enhance an outfit you already have in your closet. "Accessories can take an old outfit and make it look brand new," Durham explains. "The key is adding your own tasteful twist to the outfit and wearing it with bold confidence," Roberts adds.
Where to Buy Outfits for Wedding Guests
Now that you know what to wear to a wedding as a guest, it's time to start shopping. To help you on your search, we've rounded up a few of our favorite places to find wedding guest dresses and men's wedding guest attire online.
Abercrombie & Fitch: Abercrombie & Fitch recently expanded their collection to include wedding guest attire for men and women. To say we're obsessed would be an understatement. Visit their website or a store near you to check out their assortment of fashion-forward (and affordable) dresses and suits.
Anthropologie: Earn yourself the title of "best dressed guest" with an outfit from Anthropologie. This beloved retailer specializes in on-trend options for every occasion. Once you've found your dress, you can peruse their selection of shoes and accessories to find something to finish off your look.
ASOS: For affordable wedding guest attire, ASOS is our go-to. On their site, you'll find plenty of options under $100. Better yet? They have something for everyone, whether you're shopping men's, women's, plus-size, petite or maternity.
ELOQUII: This online retailer specializes in trendy, of-the-moment styles in sizes 14 through 32. On their site, you'll find outfits for any occasion, including maxi dresses, printed rompers and jumpsuits, simple sundresses and more. Plus, they also carry a variety of jewelry and accessory options to take your look to the next level.
Indochino: Through an algorithm that uses your exact measurements, Indochino is able to craft you a one-of-a-kind suit or tux in the materials of your choosing. You can complete the process online or shop in-person at one of their many showrooms throughout the country.
Jos. A Bank: Whether you're shopping for wedding guest attire or everyday attire, you'll find no shortage of options at Jos. A. Bank. They specialize in men's suits and separates but have a variety of shoe and accessory options as well. Be sure to subscribe to their mailing list to be the first to hear about their frequent sales.
Lulus: When you need a wedding guest dress quickly, you can't go wrong with Lulus. They have an extensive collection of dresses on their site and even offer fast and free shipping on orders over $50. Use code THEKNOT20 for 20% off first-time purchases.
Nordstrom: If you're ever not sure what to wear to a wedding, a trip to Nordstrom will change that. With countless locations throughout the country, you can easily find a store near you to try on outfits in person. Or, if you prefer the comfort of shopping from your home, you can always browse the brand's extensive collection of clothing for men, women and children online.
Nuuly: You don't need to break the bank to get the designer wedding guest dress of your dreams. With Nuuly, you can rent your wedding guest attire for a fraction of the cost. Their standard plan allows you to rent six styles of your choosing and keep them for an entire month.
Petal & Pup: If you're shopping for a dress, you have to check out Petal & Pup. This trendy brand is perfect for wedding guests that are on top of the latest style trends. Thanks to their low prices and frequent sales, you'll find just what you need within your budget. Use code PETALXKNOT for 15% off your purchase.
Rent the Runway: Showing up in style doesn't have to cost you a fortune. In fact, you can rock the designer look of your dreams for less with Rent the Runway. You can choose from one of their monthly clothing rental plans or opt for a one-time dress rental.
The Black Tux: Whether you're looking to rent or buy a suit, you'll want to check out The Black Tux. Their suits come bundled with everything you'll need to look your best on the big day. You can get fitted at one of their stores, or try on your suit at home and send it back (for free) if it's not the one for you.
Additional reporting by Sarah Hanlon.
