Appropriate Wedding Guest Attire: Common Myths Exposed and Explained
It’s no doubt that summer has arrived-thus, wedding season is in full bloom. What more, the growing popularity of autumn weddings has turned September into the new June, expanding the season even longer. While Frequenting the registry desk at Bed Bath and Beyond, confirming hotel arrangements, and making sure you send the right RSVP to the right couple, you also have the burden of finding something appropriate to wear. But what? Nothing black of course. Or was it white? You did just buy those new pants, but are they really appropriate for the occasion? Save yourself the headache because below we’ve debunked some common wedding guest fashion myths.
Wearing solid white is rude because it takes attention off of the bride.
FACT. Though modern conventions would say that almost anything goes anymore, this is one tradition you should stick with. True, there is no way your simple eyelet dress could overrule the bride’s five thousand dollar designer ball gown, but this rule is just considered common courtesy. In the future, steer away from whites, ivories, and the like.
You should save black for funerals. Wearing it to weddings is too morbid.
MYTH. Hardly! In fact, because black is flattering on most people, more and more brides are choosing it for their bridesmaid dresses. Consequently, don’t hesitate on wearing your favorite black dress to your next wedding. If you still feel a little on the dark side, swap some metallic sandals for your pumps and add a colorful bead necklace.
Wearing an above the knee skirt or dress is fine as long as you have the legs for it.
MYTH. Bottom line: A mini skirt is never appropriate in a formal setting. Instead, go for classy styles that hit no higher than the middle of the knee. Though you may have legs like Gisele Bundchen, Grandma may not appreciate seeing them. Besides, dance floors can be slippery, and mishaps do happen-we’ve all seen America
‘s Funniest Videos. Still feeling too conformed? Select a feminine camisole or strapless top and funky heels to balance out your longer skirt.
It’s okay for women to wear pants.
FACT. Absolutely! Because pants can easily be dressed up, this is a much more comfortable alternative to skirts and dresses. Pair a wide-leg trouser with beaded camisole and voila!
You shouldn’t wear the same color as the bridal party or the mothers.
MYTH. This is ridiculously false based on the grounds that it’s nearly impossible to contact everyone. To reduce risk of selecting the same dress as the attendants or one of the mothers, go for a skirt or pants.
Red is too flashy to wear to weddings.
MYTH. To be safe, white is really the only color you should avoid. However, it’s always a good idea to stay away from anything in the neon family. This is of course, assuming you actually own something neonâÂ?¦
Always bring a wrap or jacket for the ceremony.
FACT. Because all religions differ in what they consider respectable attire, it’s always a good idea to bring something to cover your shoulders. Even if you know that the church isn’t particularly strict about clothing, you should still take something. Reception sites and churches can be overly air-conditioned.
