Sequins can add glamour and sparkle to any outfit, but wearing them to a wedding requires some thought.
This article covers everything you need to know before rocking sequins for a wedding, from factors to consider, to styling tips.
With the right approach, sequins can be wedding-guest-approved.
Factors to Consider When Wearing Sequins to a Wedding
When deciding if sequins are wedding-appropriate, consider the formality, time of day, and dress code specified on the invitation.
For formal, black-tie weddings, opt for more subtle sequined accents rather than head-to-toe sparkle.
For daytime weddings, lighter colored or smaller sequins are better suited. If the dress code is ambiguous, avoid overly bold sequined looks.
The key is ensuring the sequins enhance your outfit without distracting from the bride. With some discretion, sequins can add tasteful glamour to your wedding guest style.
Sequin Dress Styles Appropriate for Weddings
When selecting a sequined dress for a wedding, consider styles that are elegant rather than flashy. A sequined midi or maxi dress in a neutral color like gold, silver, or rose gold can work beautifully.
Look for subtle sequin embellishments on necklines, sleeves, or hemlines rather than allover sparkle. Shift dresses with delicate sequins around the neck and arms are another refined option.
For formal black tie weddings, opt for structured sequined gowns in darker, muted shades. The key is choosing sequined details that enhance, rather than overwhelm your look. With some restraint, sequins can elevate your style for any wedding celebration.
How to Accessorize a Sequin Dress for a Wedding
When wearing a sequin dress to a wedding, accessories should complement rather than compete with the sparkle. Opt for metallic shoes and a small clutch in a similar tone to your dress.
Statement earrings can work nicely, while chunky necklaces and bracelets are best avoided. If your sequined dress has a bateau or off-the-shoulder neckline, draw attention to your shoulders with delicate drop earrings. Pins and brooches make for pretty hair accessories.
Stick to neutral and metallic bag and shoe colors, like silver, gold, black or nude. By keeping the accessories minimal, you allow the sequin dress to shine as the focal point of your wedding guest outfit.
Tips for Wearing Sequins as a Wedding Guest
Sequins can add glamour to your wedding guest attire, but follow these tips to ensure your look is occasion-appropriate:
- Opt for sequin accents rather than head-to-toe sparkle. A sequined skirt or sequin embellished top paired with non-sequined pieces creates a more refined look.
- Stick to smaller sequins rather than oversized disc sequins, which can appear gaudy. Pops of petite sequins catch the light subtly.
- Steer clear of bright sequin colors that could outshine the bride. Neutral metallics like gold, silver, bronze and rose gold complement most wedding color palettes.
- Wear a sequin style with some coverage like a midi or maxi length skirt. More skin showing amps up the drama.
- Bring a wrap or cover-up in case the wedding is in a house of worship or venue with a formal dress code.
- Keep other accessories minimal. Let the sequins be the star of your look by keeping jewelry, shoes and hair styling simple and elegant.
With these tips in mind, sequins can add tasteful shine to your wedding guest style.
Sequin Outfit Ideas for Different Wedding Dress Codes
The bride and groom’s chosen dress code provides guidance on what sequined styles work best. Here are some sequin outfit ideas tailored to common wedding dress codes:
- Black Tie Optional: A black tie optional dress code still calls for elevated formalwear. A sequin accented gown or jumpsuit are stylish options. Accessorize with metallic heels and a clutch.
- Cocktail Attire: The cocktail dress code offers more flexibility for sequins. A classic cocktail dress with an A-line sequin skirt or sequin bodice elevates the look. Add strappy heels and sparkling jewelry.
- Casual or Beach Wedding: For a laidback vibe, try a metallic sequin mini skirt with a flowy cami or sequin shorts with a relaxed blouse. Flat metallic sandals keep it comfortable.
- Themed Wedding: If the couple has a Gatsby, disco or holiday theme, go bold with all-over sequins. Do a sequin fringe flapper dress for a Roaring ’20s affair or a sequin wrap dress in red or green for a Christmas wedding.
By tailoring your sequined style to the specified dress code, you can shine bright while still showing love and respect for the couple’s wishes.
How to Style Sequins for a Day vs. Evening Wedding
Sequins can work for both daytime and nighttime weddings with some styling adjustments. For daytime:
- Opt for smaller, more subtle sequins rather than large, flashy ones. Go for a light catch rather than full-on sparkle.
- Stick to lighter sequin colors like silver, champagne, pearl, or pale pink. Avoid darker or neon sequin shades.
- Balance the sequins with non-shiny elements. Pair them with linen, lace, or chiffon fabrics.
- Wear sequins on the skirt or bodice of a dress rather than head-to-toe. Let the sequins be an accent.
- For evening:
- Larger sequins and all-over sequin fabrics make more of a statement once the sun goes down.
- Deep jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and ruby make rich evening sequin colors.
- Metallic sequins in gold, bronze and silver glimmer under night lighting.
- Go for sequin embellishments on shoes, jewelry and handbags in addition to your outfit.
The time of day is a key factor when planning sequin wedding guest attire. Follow these tips to get the look just right.
Common Sequin Fashion Faux Pas at Weddings
Sequins can easily go from glam to tacky without thoughtful styling. Avoid these common pitfalls when wearing sequins to a wedding:
- Ultra short, tight or low-cut sequin dresses can upstage the bride. Aim for tasteful over bold.
- Head-to-toe sequins overwhelms. Sequins from head to toe risk looking costumey.
- Neon or rainbow sequins work for other events but are too flashy for weddings.
- Mixing too many sequin colors and styles appears gaudy and distracting.
- Wearing sequin colors that clash with the wedding palette misses the mark.
- Loud sequined shoes, purses and jewelry compete with the bride’s look.
- Steer clear of these faux pas, and your sequined wedding guest outfit will get rave reviews. Remember, when in doubt, keep it classy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it okay to wear sequins to a black tie wedding?
It’s best to avoid wearing sequined attire to black tie weddings, as sequins are considered too flashy and informal for the dress code. Stick to elegant fabrics like silk or satin in dark, formal colors.
When not to wear sequins?
Avoid sequins for formal daytime events like garden parties, religious ceremonies, and business events. Sequins are best reserved for evening events like cocktail parties, galas, and semi-formal weddings.
Is it OK to wear sparkly shoes to a wedding?
Sparkly shoes can add a fun touch to an outfit. Subtle metallic or glitter shoes are generally fine for weddings, just avoid ultra flashy sequined shoes. Stick to formal heels or wedges in metallic colors like gold, silver, or nude.
Can I wear a sparkly dress to a black tie wedding?
It’s best to avoid highly sparkly or sequined dresses for black tie weddings. A dress with some subtle shimmer or metallic accents can work, but opt for dark, formal fabrics like satin or silk rather than heavily embellished fabrics.
Conclusion
Sequins and excessive sparkle are too flashy for formal black tie weddings. While a touch of metallic shine can work, it’s best to stick to elegant, dark colored fabrics like satin or silk. Shoes and accessories can provide subtle sparkle. But avoid heavily sequined attire and fabrics, as they don’t align with the formal black tie dress code. When in doubt, remember “can i wear sequins to a wedding” – the answer is no for black tie.