Guide

Dress code etiquette for wedding guests: how to avoid putting your foot in it

Vanessa Kim
4.6.2019
Translation: machine translated

Here comes the guest: To avoid becoming the unwanted centre of attention at the next wedding ceremony, you must adhere to these dress rules.

First published on 18 May 2018

As soon as the starting gun goes off for this year's wedding season, you only have one thought on your mind: what do I wear? After all, you want to look stunning at this happening. To make sure you don't steal the show from the bride and inevitably become the talk of the town, there are a few things you need to bear in mind. As I've already been to a few weddings, I'll tell you my personal dos and don'ts:

Tip 1: Show your colours

I hope I don't have to tell you at this point that the non-colour white (including eggshell, ivory and ecru) is taboo. The same also applies to black, which in my opinion has no place at a wedding - unless you're mourning the groom you actually wanted to get yourself. If you only wear dark colours per se, go for navy on this day.

In addition to all blue tones, pastel colours such as pink, mint and yellow are also suitable for the big party. But beware: the lighter the shade, the greater the risk that the colour will look white in strong sunlight. This applies in particular to light grey, silver and beige tones.

No, not all brides see red with red. Personally, it didn't bother me at my wedding. The important thing is that the dress leaves room for imagination. A plunging neckline and a high leg cut are taboo. To avoid getting a dirty look from the bride at the party, you should ask her just in case. Opinions differ on this bright colour!

Tip 2: Pay attention to the cut

Be stingy with your stimuli by not showing too much skin. This doesn't mean that you should turn up to the party looking like a nun: If your dress is low-cut, then it shouldn't be too short and vice versa. Also, if you're aiming to catch the bouquet, avoid the off-the-shoulder Carmen look. This cut makes it difficult to raise your arms and hug the bride and groom. [[image:22157324]]

Tip 3: Keep an eye on the material

Of course, silk is a fine material that feels great on the skin, but: it emphasises the curves and all of them (whether intentionally or not). What's more, it doesn't lend itself to long periods of sitting because the fabric creases unattractively in the bum area. With polyester hangers, you run the risk of the wedding party turning their noses up at you because of your sweating.

Tip 4: Consider the location

If the wedding ceremony is taking place outdoors - I'm just talking about a forest and meadow wedding - think carefully about which shoes you choose. Stilettos don't do well on grass. Wedges or sandals with a block heel are particularly suitable for uneven ground. A woman who sinks into the ground in her high heels is more likely to cause laughter than admiring glances. If the wedding ceremony is taking place in a church, be sure to cover your bare shoulders with a stole.

Tip 5: The choice of accessories

Have you bought new shoes for the party? Then break them in beforehand. There's nothing worse than walking around in uncomfortable pumps all day. The bride and groom will see that too. For the colour choice, I recommend nude, gold or silver tones. Black is allowed as an accessory, but usually looks too harsh.

Outfits for the guests:

The maid of honour

As the bride's right-hand woman, you'll be on your toes all day long, so opt for a wedge or block heel shoe. If you're wearing a long gown, you'll only be able to see the sandals anyway. An elegant shoulder bag (as opposed to a strapless clutch) keeps your hands free. [[product:11244814,10992578,9273147]]

The mother of the bride

Don't buy your dress until your daughter has found what she's looking for. This way you can coordinate your outfit with the wedding dress in terms of style. Even better: consult with the mother of the groom so that you create a harmonious picture. [[product:10997180,10858785,8116692]]

The guest

You can't go wrong with a cocktail dress - unless the dress code is "white tie", in which case you'll need a floor-length gown. Nude-coloured shoes will make your legs look longer. [[product:10260591,10921240,10446906]]

Do you have a styling question? Then leave a comment. I look forward to receiving your plan so that you don't miss any articles from me.

Hier geht's zu allen Kleidern.

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When I’m not exploring the depths of the sea as an open water diver, I enjoy plunging into the world of fashion. On the streets of Paris, Milan and New York is where I keep my eyes peeled for the latest trends. And I’ll show you how to take them from the catwalk to your everyday life. 


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