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Wedding Guest Attire Etiquette Q & A

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Answers to Common Wedding Attire Questions

Q: Is it appropriate for a woman to wear black to a daytime wedding?

A: Absolutely!  There was a time when wearing black to a wedding was a two-fold faux pas, as it could appear the guest thought poorly of the union and black attire symbolized mourning.  Thankfully, this is not the case today.  Black is a popular color choice.  In fact, wearing red is the only taboo color for wedding guests—unless it is a cultural norm. 

Q: May I wear a formal dress with sequins for a daytime wedding?

A: Unfortunately, sequins and beaded gowns are formal evening attire.  Most likely, unless this is a very formal wedding-reception-combo all-day affair, guest attire would be daytime-appropriate cocktail attire.

Q: I found the perfect blue strapless gown for my best friend's wedding.  Would this be appropriate for a semi-formal evening wedding?

A: If you would still like to be friends after the wedding, then it is best to save the strapless gown for another occasion.  Strapless gowns tend to draw the eye, especially if you are lucky enough to be well endowed.  It is best to shop for a more conservative dress. 

Q: Is it more appropriate to wear a suit for a daytime church wedding or can I wear a sport coat and slacks?

A: It depends.  If the wedding were held in a Catholic Church, which is typically more formal, then you would wear a suit.   Additionally, if the invitation states "Formal Attire", you would wear a suit.  Other than that, you could wear your sport coat and slacks. 

Q: The wedding is very formal with a reception following at 5 pm.  May I wear my tuxedo?

A: Strict etiquette rules state that a tuxedo is formal attire worn after 6 pm.  However, most do not know this rule.  There is some wiggle room since the reception begins at 5 pm—only an hour early.  Alternately, this also means that the wedding probably begins around 4 pm, which is much too early.  So, follow your gut feeling.  If you feel that there will be other guests wearing tuxedos, you should not feel too out of place. 

Q: My legs are very white.  May I wear nylons with strappy sandals? 

A: Wearing nylons with open-toe shoes is considered a fashion faux pas.  I suggest either wearing closed-toe shoes or splurging on a spray tan. 

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