What to Wear to a Mormon Wedding as a Guest

In figuring out what to wear to a Mormon wedding—or any cultural wedding different from your own—it's important to know a little bit about the rituals of that wedding and the reasons behind them. But, as it turns out, Mormon weddings—and especially their receptions—are relatively laid-back.

Mormons are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), and their weddings are held in sacred temples. "The big differences you will see in LDS weddings compared to Christian weddings are in the ceremony itself and the reception design and execution," says Kimberly Nicole Osborne, owner, planner and designer at Weddings by Kimberly Nicole in Salt Lake City. "LDS ceremonies are held in the temple, and only select LDS members can attend. The ceremonies are officiated by a priesthood authority and are actually very short. Once the ceremony is completed at the temple, couples usually celebrate with a gathering of their friends, family and churchgoers." While receptions do include food and, sometimes, traditions like the bouquet toss and cake cutting, they're alcohol-free and tend to be more of an open-house style, with guests stopping in to congratulate the couple throughout the day or evening.

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So, what's the dress code? We'll dive into that here, but again, it's equally laid-back. "Most LDS receptions are very inclusive and welcome guests as they are, sans dress code," Osborne says. Still, there are a few guidelines you can follow to make sure you're dressed appropriately. Here, Osborne weighs in, along with Utah-based founder of Norman Weddings & Events Jenya Norman and LDS stylist and designer Merrick White.

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

What to Wear to a Mormon Wedding as a Guest

"There really isn't a dress code for most weddings, since the LDS culture already has guidelines that members must adhere to," Osborne says. "Women usually wear dresses that cover their shoulders and go past their knees." If anything, most Mormon weddings have a casual dress code that is not strictly enforced, she adds. "For someone who is attending an LDS reception that is not religious or LDS, it may be good to ask the couple if they have any specific dress codes they want their guests to adhere to."

"Unless there is a specific dress code listed, LDS weddings are much more casual than typical weddings," White adds. "You won't typically see floor-length gowns at an LDS wedding—instead you'll see women in their Sunday church dresses, or maybe a cocktail dress."

That said, while there isn't a dress code per se, there are standards. Norman elaborates: "LDS modesty standards for women are shirts and dresses that cover the shoulders (no strapless or thin-strapped clothing), a modest neckline (deep cut tops and dresses are discouraged), skirts and dresses no shorter than a couple of inches above the knee, no open stomach and no overly tight clothes (which applies both to men and women)." Still have questions? Read on, and check out the official LDS guidebook on modesty and what to wear to a wedding.

What to Wear to a Mormon Temple Wedding Ceremony

"If a guest is an LDS member and attending the temple sealing, they are required to wear their 'garments,' which narrows down what they can wear," Osborne explains. (FYI: The garments she's referring to are a set of undershorts and a shirt that those of the LDS faith typically wear beneath their clothes as a reminder of their commitment to God.) Non-LDS guests don't have to wear the religious garments or typical Mormon wedding clothing, of course—but they also likely won't be invited to the temple sealing ceremony to begin with, as only LDS members are allowed into the temple. "Sometimes friends and family members who are not able to enter the temple are invited to wait outside to participate in group photos," Norman says. "In this case, I recommend dressing as a guest with the wedding's theme and colors in mind."

What to Wear to a Mormon Wedding Reception

Officially, you can wear just about anything. "In my experience, LDS members accept those outside the church with open arms and have no comments on their clothing selections," Osborne says. "The couples do not usually have dress code expectations for guests since the reception information usually is spread by word of mouth, and the affair is usually casual." Unofficially? It's most appropriate to adhere to the modesty standards that LDS members—including, of course, the newlyweds—will be following when it comes to Mormon wedding clothes. So, as for what to wear to a Mormon wedding reception, opt for long or short sleeves, higher necklines and midi- or maxi-length dresses. For guys, a suit and tie is always a safe bet for nearly any type of wedding. Feel free to dress it down for LDS wedding receptions with an open collar or polo shirt.

What Not to Wear to a Mormon Wedding

While dress codes are not strictly enforced at Mormon events, there are still things to avoid in a Mormon wedding outfit if possible. "Even if you are not LDS, I would stay away from clothing that can be considered short or low cut," Osborne advises. Also avoid sleeveless dresses, though shoulders can be covered with a shawl or bolero, and don't wear strapless. Eschew short hemlines (anything far above the knee is a no-go) in favor of longer ones, and pass on the high slits in skirts. For both men and women, avoid tight clothing. Further, "women are not allowed to wear pants in the temple," Osborne adds, though outside the temple pants are acceptable.

Mormon Wedding Outfit Ideas for Guests

Though it should be modest, Mormon wedding attire doesn't have to be boring. Here, we provide an outline with a few styling ideas for modest wedding guest dresses; use it as a guide and then do a deep dive into retailers like Tuckernuck or ASOS for fashion-forward choices, or check out made-to-be-modest retailers like SweetSalt. If modesty is not usually your style vibe, rent something instead. Rent the Runway is our go-to for wedding guest attire of all kinds. Just remember, "it is always best to show respect to someone's culture," Norman says. "Wearing an overly revealing dress or a tight suit may make you feel uncomfortable among people who are not dressed in the same way."

Colorful Sweater Dress

Photo: Revolve

LDS weddings tend to be more casual, so a sweater dress—especially for the snowy Utah weather—is perfectly acceptable. This one by Line & Dot has a fun color block that gives it a little extra flair.

High-Neck Dress with Sheer Overlay

Photo: Rent the Runway

This STAUD dress rides the line between modest and fashion-forward for more formal weddings. (Mormon wedding guest attire calls for sleeves, but that doesn't mean they can't be sheer.) Style your hair in a slicked-back bun to show off the dress.

Open Collar Suit

Photo: Bonobos

For men, a suit is always a safe wedding option—but guys can dress it down a bit by wearing the blazer open with a polo or open-collar shirt beneath. This Italian linen option is one you can wear over and over again.

A Casual Midi

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

This Abercrombie & Fitch crinkle satin maxi is understated and appropriate yet beautifully draped and lovely in a subtle sage. Dress it up with fun statement jewelry and shoes—or keep it simple.

Neutral Dress Pants and a Polo

Photos, left to right: The Tie Bar, Theory

"Menswear is typically a suit or dress pants and a polo," Osborne says. "As for color, you don't typically see anything in bold colors or colors that draw attention." For an updated look that's less sporty than your typical golf polo, try a cable-knit or sweater polo like this one, paired with easy khaki chinos.

A Flutter-Sleeve Maxi

Photo: Hill House Home

High neckline, check. Maxi length, check. Sleeves, check (but make them flutter). This Hill House Home dress ticks all the important modesty boxes and has flair with a pretty pattern. (Fun fact: The brand worked with an artist to design this South-of-France-inspired print, and launched a headband and bow in a matching motif to finish your look).

A Pretty Jumpsuit

Photo: Baltic Born

While it's inappropriate for the temple ceremony, a jumpsuit is perfectly acceptable for the open house or reception if you're a non-LDS wedding guest. Jenya Norman suggests this one: It has an easy, not-too-tight fit, a high neck and short sleeves. Plus, the espresso-floral print is unique and interesting.

A Lace Midi

Photo: Nordstrom

"Any color is fine—except, of course, for white! Leave that for the bride," White says. She loves this midi in emerald and blue, which has the added element of cutout lace for an extra unique look.