What colors do you avoid wearing to a wedding? Here is a list of colors that wedding guests can avoid or at the very least consider carefully before choosing.
Some many customs and laws have changed in recent years when it comes to wedding guest etiquette, but one of the most frequently asked etiquette questions is: Can you wear white to a wedding? Though it turns out that colors that were once considered taboo (black, for example) are now perfectly acceptable to wear to (most) weddings, there are still some colors that should be avoided, including some that might surprise you.
Is it appropriate to wear white to a wedding? Here's a list of colors you shouldn't wear to a wedding, as well as some you should reconsider wearing.
WHITE
So, would you wear white to a wedding once and for all? It turns out that the only color you can't wear to a wedding is always white. Eighty percent of brides wear white to their weddings, and a bride must stand out. Even if it isn't the intention, a guest dressed in white may be interpreted as an effort to overshadow the bride, which is a big no-no.
Ivories
But the outfit I want to wear isn't white, it's ivory, we've learned a million times. If it's close to white, don't wear it. Ivory, off-white, cream, eggshell, vanilla, bone—call it what you want, but if it's close to white, don't wear it. Also, fabrics with mainly white or ivory designs, such as florals, polka dots, or stripes, should be avoided. At a wedding, something that may be mistaken for white or ivory would be frowned upon.
NEVER WEAR THE ABOVE!
Gold or champagne?
What colors do you avoid wearing to a wedding? Champagne and gold wedding gowns have become very popular in recent years. If you're attending a wedding with a fashion-forward bride, be aware that she might choose a dress that is more gold than white.
To be on the safe side, stay away from outfits that are mainly gold or champagne in color. Even pale silver can feel bridal, so stay away from it if at all possible.
Extremely light pastels
Typically, pastel colors are not only acceptable but also encouraged in guest wear, particularly for spring events. However, we've seen far too many wedding guest dresses in barely-there pastel hues that in photographs appear white or ivory—not cool. If you're planning a blush or pale mint wedding look, photograph the ensemble in natural light. It's perfect to wear if the pink or green shade remains. If it appears to be white, skip it.
Metallics of excessive gleam
Stop wearing outfits with excessive beading or sparkle whether you're attending a daytime or casual wedding. It will be seen as an attempt to steal the show, similar to wearing white—not cool. Sparkly gowns are generally appropriate if the wedding is formal or black-tie—just don't go too far and wear anything that might be mistaken for a wedding gown.
A bright color
Since you don't want to take the spotlight from the newlyweds, overly bright colors are among the colors to avoid wearing to a wedding. Wearing neon colors will make you seem as though you're attempting to attract attention, which isn't cool.
Think a lot before wearing them!
