What to Wear to a Catholic Wedding: Dos and Don’ts

If you're attending a Catholic wedding, you're probably on the hunt for a stylish outfit that's modest enough to wear in a church. As a guest, selecting an appropriate ensemble to wear to a Catholic wedding is important because the ceremony has deeply rooted religious significance. So, dressing respectfully is essential to honor the sacred setting and faith-based customs. Plus, it's a sign of respect to the couple and their family.

To help you find some fab dresses to wear to a church wedding, we've assembled a thorough shopping guide. It has styling tips from a fashion expert and outfit inspiration for every type of dress code. Keep reading for the dos and don'ts of Catholic wedding attire and our top wedding wear picks that you can shop now.

• What to Wear to a Catholic Wedding as a Guest
• What Not to Wear to a Catholic Wedding
• Catholic Church Wedding Attire Ideas for Guests

What to Wear to a Catholic Wedding as a Guest

Dressing for a Catholic wedding is all about modesty, simplicity and comfort. Here's a rundown of how to choose your Catholic wedding guest attire.

Catholic Church Wedding Attire

Navigating what to wear to a wedding can be tricky, especially religious ceremonies with strict rules. For Catholic weddings, modesty is at the forefront. Dressing conservatively shows reverence for the faith and "is just as important as social graces that you would show at any wedding" explains Veronica Marrinan, co-founder and creative director of fashion label Litany NYC. Marrinan, who is a devout Catholic, says, "There aren't specific guidelines, but some things to keep in mind: cover cleavage and keep skirts or rompers to about knee or mid-thigh length so you'll be comfortable moving around during the mass, since there's a lot of sitting, standing and kneeling."

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Marrinan says, "Depending on the couple's family or church regulations, you may also want to cover your shoulders or bring a shawl to be on the safe side…and when in doubt, ask the couple or wedding planner for the dress code." She also suggests checking the church's website or calling their receptionists to check their specific dress code for Catholic weddings.

Daytime Catholic Wedding Attire

Wondering what to wear to a daytime Catholic wedding? Before shopping, start by reading the formality details listed on the invite. If it says semi-formal, opt for a knee-length dress, skirt and blouse, or pantsuit. For formal attire (synonymous with black-tie optional attire), wear a cocktail dress, midi dress, elevated jumpsuit or floor-length gown. Men can wear tailored suits for either dress code or a tux for formal events.

Regardless of the dress code, all colors are okay. However, Marrinan says daytime weddings are a fab opportunity to "have more fun with color and fabrics! Florals are a great option, and I would avoid stiff satin or heavy lace for a daytime look." She also suggests going with a more casual shoe like an elegant sandal or a non-clunky heel.

Catholic Wedding Attire for Different Cultures

If you've been fortunate enough to receive an invitation to a Catholic wedding that overlaps with a specific culture, "Embrace and research the culture and see what's stylistically common!" Marrinan says. For Mexican Catholic weddings, "Expect to see lots of bright colors, and dressier fabrics, for both men and women." So don't be afraid to wear vibrant hues, bold prints and statement shawl or bolero to these joyful events. However, as with any Catholic ceremony, clothing should always be tasteful and semi-formal.

What Not to Wear to a Catholic Wedding

Just as important as what to wear to a Catholic wedding is what not to wear. Here's some expert advice on the attire you'll want to leave in your closet.

Catholic Church Wedding Attire

Maintaining dress code guidelines is crucial when deciding what not to wear to a wedding. For Catholic weddings, modesty is paramount so shy away from showing excess skin. This includes short hems, plunging necklines and overly trendy dresses with cutouts around the midriff or back of the dress. When it comes to color, "Any hue is considered appropriate on paper, but think about the bride and what she'd likely be comfortable with. Avoid white or anything that looks white from afar, and if the family is a bit more aesthetically introverted, you may want to avoid bright reds" says Marrinan.

Daytime Catholic Wedding Attire

If the wedding invite doesn't state a dress code, assume that it is semi-formal and more elevated than what you would typically wear to church. Steer clear of casual footwear like flip-flops, slides, sneakers or boots. Instead, choose a refined pair of sandals, heels or dress shoes that matches the upscale nature of the occasion. Also, ditch any leggings, jeans, sweats, hats and other sportswear that you would wear on the weekend. When it comes to fabrics, Marinnan says, "avoid anything 100% cotton or linen (as this can look a bit too casual) and opt for dressier fabrics like chiffon, silk, lace, satin, crepe, sequins or brocade (depending on the season)."

Catholic Wedding Reception Attire

"Typically Catholic weddings don't have a requirement to change outfits for the reception," says Marrinan. However, "I always recommend a more conservative outfit for the ceremony, and if you need to change for the reception you can have a bit more flexibility there." If you do decide to change, it's an opportune time to show more skin with a slightly higher hemline or a strapless dress. However, avoid anything too risqué that breaks the aforementioned modesty guidelines. Most importantly, choose something that you feel comfortable and appropriate in!

Catholic Church Wedding Attire Ideas for Guests

Now that we understand the fashion guidelines for Catholic wedding attire for guests, it's time to shop! Remember, just because the occasion calls for dressing conservatively doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your style. We've assembled a shopping guide of fashionable, modest wedding guest dresses and men's options, for every church wedding dress code and budget, from some of our go-to retailers for wedding wear like ASOS, The Black Tux and Anthropologie.

Full Coverage Pleated Maxi Dress

Photo: ASOS

Just because a dress code is ultra-conservative doesn't mean your outfit has to be frumpy. For example, this breezy emerald dress has trendy bell sleeves and a flattering cinched bust, while offering coverage in all the right places so you'll feel appropriate and chic.

Embroidered Long Sleeve Cocktail Dress

Photo: Nordstrom

Thanks to the bright embroidered blooms and embellished waistline, this vibrant dress is a tasteful choice for festive cultural weddings. For accessories, go with neutral sandals or pumps, minimal jewelry and a simple bag to keep the focus on the floral print.

High-Neck Classic LBD

Photo: Abercrombie

A classic LBD is always on point and this draped version (available in petite, regular and tall) works due to the high-neck detail and low slit. Plus, the seasonless silhouette will earn a spot in your wardrobe for years to come.

Cap Sleeve Wrap Maxi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

We're absolutely charmed by this floral wrap dress, available in petite and plus sizing, which has the perfect floaty look for springtime weddings. Thanks to the wrap detailing, you can customize the fit to control the amount of cleavage showing and how high your slit is.

Cowl Neck Halter Gown

Photo: Windsor

If you're attending a formal evening wedding that allows exposed shoulders, this sophisticated halter gown is a great choice. It has full-frontal coverage and easily transitions to a black-tie reception look. During the ceremony, just pair it with an elegant shawl to cover the open back.

Slim Fit Semi-Formal Suit

Photo: Men's Wearhouse

Whether the dress code is casual, semi-formal or somewhere in between, you can't go wrong with a tailored suit and crisp button-up. For daytime ceremonies, don a light color suit like this cool blue version.

Navy or Black Timeless Tuxedo

Photo: The Black Tux

For a formal wedding, a dark suit or tuxedo (bow tie is optional), worn with a collared dress shirt, is most appropriate. This sleek tux, available to rent or buy, has a two-button closure, side vents and satin notch lapels.