Here’s Exactly What to Wear to a Jewish Wedding as a Guest

Attending a Jewish wedding is a unique and joyous occasion, filled with love and meaningful traditions. But with varying levels of formality (Orthodox, Conservative or Reform), figuring out what to wear to a Jewish wedding can be tricky. As a guest, it is important to dress appropriately and respectfully for the religious and cultural aspects of the ceremony, so that you can honor the happy couple and their families.

To help you navigate the correct Jewish wedding dress code, we created a style guide, with input from fashion experts, so you know exactly what to wear to each type of ceremony. We've also included our top shopping picks so you can buy your look on the spot.

• What to Wear to a Jewish Wedding as a Guest
• What Not to Wear to a Jewish Wedding
• Jewish Wedding Outfit Ideas for Guests

What to Wear to a Jewish Wedding as a Guest

Deciding what to wear to a wedding should be based on the formality of the event and the couple's sect of Judaism. Once you've narrowed those down, it's time to pinpoint the do's and don'ts of Jewish wedding outfits. Below, Jewish fashion designers Talya Bendel, designer of Talya Bendel-Haas Bridal, and Ramy Brook, founder of the contemporary brand Ramy Brook, break down the appropriate wedding attire for every type of Jewish wedding.

Dress for the Sect

Whether you're attending an Orthodox, Conservative or Reform Jewish wedding, the degrees of modesty and dressing guidelines vary within the different sects.

• Orthodox Weddings: "Dresses for Orthodox Jewish weddings should be modest…especially if the ceremony is in a synagogue," says Bendel, who grew up in an Orthodox community. Therefore, women should wear "formal knee-length skirts or dresses. Shoulders should be covered, sleeves to be close to or cover the elbow and necklines should be high (meaning no cleavage or chest showing)," Bendel says. For men, "they should wear black, navy or gray suits with a white shirt and tie." Also, both Jewish and non-Jewish men will likely be expected to wear a kippah, a religious head covering, during the ceremony. If the ceremony is in the morning, they may also be encouraged to wear a tallit, a prayer shawl, during the service.
• Conservative Weddings: Wondering what to wear to a Conservative Jewish wedding? Bendel says, "The dress code is similar to Orthodox guidelines but less rigid. Modesty is still important but there is less stringency with the length of the hem, neckline and sleeve length." So, in addition to dresses and skirts, women can wear dressy pantsuits, short sleeves or necklines that are a bit lower than what you'd typically see at an Orthodox wedding. Men can still choose a suit and tie, but dress shirts and nice slacks are also appropriate. While not mandatory, wearing the kippah is suggested.
• Reform Weddings: Reform weddings are the most relaxed of the three and "does not have a strict dress code like the other sects," says Bendel. However, modesty is still a key consideration. So, if you're thinking about what to wear to a traditional Jewish wedding, opt for a dress at least to your fingertips, pantsuit, jumpsuit, gown or maxi dress. However, you can be more liberal about showing shoulders and some of your back. Also, "Have fun with color! The more vibrant, the better!" says Brook. Men should still opt for suits, tuxedos or dress shirts and slacks.

Pay Attention To the Details

Regardless of the type of ceremony, checking the invitation for specifics about the attire specifications and the venue is crucial for Jewish weddings. "Follow the dress code and level of formality for the occasion, whether it's cocktail or black tie. If the invite is unclear, don't be afraid to ask the wedding planner or the couple," says Brook. "Also, take the venue into account. If the ceremony is inside a temple or synagogue, you'll always need a wrap or light jacket to cover your shoulders."

What Not to Wear to a Jewish Wedding

When it comes to religious ceremonies, knowing what not to wear to a wedding is paramount due to the sacredness of the event. Here are some guidelines.

Err On the Side of Modesty

Before getting dressed, always check on the clothing rules for the specific sect of Judaism applicable to the ceremony and think 'What can I wear to a Jewish wedding?'. Remember, opting for conservative attire is always a safe choice because "that will be what the majority is wearing and you want to blend in," says Bendel. Below, we've highlighted the basics.

• Orthodox Weddings: Avoid low necklines and showing arms and legs. Unless the invitation specifies a particular color scheme, steer clear of overly flashy or bright colors and stick to muted tones and pastels. "As you would in a typical wedding, do not wear any white! And dress for the season…darker tones in the fall and lighter colors in the spring or summer," says Bendel.
• Conservative Weddings: Don't show shoulders, excess cleavage or wear miniskirts. Abstain from wearing anything too tight-fitting or revealing. Also, keep your accessories low-key.
• Reform Weddings: Even though these weddings have the most liberal dress code, ensure your look is tasteful. You can indulge in the latest trends, "I wouldn't recommend a strapless mini…but maybe rock a cutout!" says Bendel.

Stick to Elegant Wedding Wear

As an unspoken rule, the dress code for Jewish ceremonies tends to be semi-formal or formal. So, avoid casual clothing. This includes all sportswear including denim, leggings, slides, sneakers and other loungewear. Even if the nuptials take place in the most laid-back setting, like someone's backyard, opt for an elevated sundress and chic sandals. Men can wear chinos and a button-up shirt.

Jewish Wedding Outfit Ideas for Guests

Now that you understand what to wear to a Jewish wedding ceremony, it's finally time to start shopping. Since finding stylish modest wedding guest dresses is tough, especially dresses for an Orthodox Jewish wedding, we've created a detailed fashion guide. There's Jewish wedding guest dress and menswear options from some of our go-to retailers for modest wear like ASOS, Bloomingdale's and Rent the Runway.

High-Neck Maxi Dress With Flare Hem

Photo: ASOS

We love the dreamy pastel palette and flowy fabric of this dress that's a perfect option for spring weddings. Plus, the full-coverage silhouette ensures that you're appropriate for an Orthodox service.

Fit-and-Flare Lightweight Maxi Dress

Photo: Banana Republic

During the summer, it doesn't get cooler than this breathable, cotton maxi that's designed with a small, back cutout to keep you ventilated. Wear it to a semi-formal, Reform wedding for a sophisticated look.

High-Neck Dress With Flutter Sleeves

Photo: Rent The Runway

Consider this romantic dress for an Orthodox ceremony. It has a high, mock neck and mid-length arm sleeves for an extra-modest fit. But the frock is far from boring thanks to the rounded shoulders, flared elbows and vibrant print.

Sleeveless Column Dress With Waistline Detail

Photo: Eloquii

Nothing says glamour like a sequin, maxi-length dress with micro side cutouts and a bold front bow. This lime stunner is a great option for a formal, traditional wedding.

V-Neck Printed Midi Dress

Photo: Revolve

Show your sweet side in this cute, floral dress that's adorned with fashionable puffy sleeves and delicate ruffle details. Even though it meets all the requirements for a conservative affair, it's far from boring.

Silky Halter Gown

Photo: Ramy Brook

You'll look radiant in this golden, silky halter gown that has a high-ruched neckline to balance out the open back. For a traditional wedding, wear it to synagogue with an elegant shawl.

Two-Button Closure Fitted Suit

Photo: The Black Tux

Invest in a suit, in a muted color, that you can wear to any type of ceremony. This modern version, made from 100% wool, is available in both classic or slim fit and is available to rent or buy.

Classic Chino Pants

Photo: Untuckit

For semi-formal events, you can wear chinos with a crisp button-up and tie, for a polished-yet-understated look. These chinos have a hint of stretch for extra comfort and are available in six different colors.

Slim Fit Dress Shirt

Photo: Bloomingdale's

A polished white shirt is a must-have for anyone wearing a suit or dress pants. To keep your look modern, look for a contemporary slim fit version that won't look baggy or wrinkle easily.