Last Updated on June 23, 2024 by Jo
Weddings are joyous occasions, but the dress code can be confusing.
This article breaks down wedding attire etiquette so you can dress appropriately and avoid any faux pas.
We’ll cover everything from colors to avoid to footwear and accessories, so you can focus on celebrating instead of worrying about your outfit.
Overview of Wedding Attire Etiquette
When attending a wedding, you want to strike the right balance between expressing your personal style and adhering to etiquette. Some general guidelines for wedding guest attire include avoiding wearing white, cream, or ivory so you don’t upstage the bride. Opt for cocktail attire or more formal wear depending on the formality. Choose colors and patterns that are festive yet tasteful. And stick to dark or neutral footwear and accessories so your outfit doesn’t distract from the bride and groom. Following these simple rules helps ensure you look and feel your best on the big day.
Rules for Wearing White to Weddings
White is traditionally reserved for the bride on her wedding day. But the rules around wearing white as a guest are not as strict as they once were. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Avoid solid white outfits, including dresses, suits, or jumpsuits. Opt for off-white, ivory, blush, or other light neutral colors instead.
- White accessories like shoes, purses, and jewelry are generally fine. Just don’t wear head-to-toe white.
- Patterned white dresses or tops are usually acceptable. Florals, stripes, or geometric patterns make the white less distracting.
- Check with the bride if you’re uncertain. She may not mind white as an accent color. But clearing it with her is the safest option.
- White pants, skirts, or jackets can work for weddings, especially in summer. Pair them with a colorful top to avoid an all-white look.
The main idea is not to mistake the guest for the bride. A touch of white is no longer taboo, but solid white outfits are best avoided. When in doubt, opt for a different color or check with the bride.
Guidelines for Boots at Weddings
Boots may seem too casual for a wedding, but they can work for the right event. Here are some tips on wearing boots to a wedding:
- Ankle boots with a heel are a great option with dresses or skirts. Go for a sleek leather or suede in a neutral color.
- Over-the-knee boots can look fashionable and elegant paired with a dress or skirt that hits above or below the knee.
- Cowboy boots are fine for a rustic, country, or Western-themed wedding. Just be sure they fit the theme.
- Rain boots are practical for outdoor weddings with mud. Opt for a simple style in a wedding color like white, ivory or metallic.
- Avoid chunky combat or hiking boots. They tend to look too clunky and casual.
- Check the dress code. Boots may not be appropriate for black tie weddings.
- Consider heel height. A lower heel is better for staying comfortable on the dance floor.
- Make sure boots are in good condition. Scuffs or wear and tear will look out of place.
With the right style and some consideration of the event, boots can add flair to your wedding outfit. Just aim for sleek over clunky when pairing them with formalwear.
Tips for Styling White Boots at a Wedding
White boots can be a great way to add personality to your wedding guest outfit. Here are some tips for styling white boots for a wedding:
- Play with textures. Pair leather or suede white boots with a flowy chiffon or lace dress for contrast.
- Complement neutrals. If wearing an all-neutral outfit, let the white boots pop as a focal point.
- Watch lengths. Ankle boots look best with midi or knee-length hemlines, while over-the-knee boots pair well with minis.
- Accessorize thoughtfully. Skip big, distracting jewelry and let the boots be the statement.
- Consider heel heights. Block heels or wedges tend to be more comfortable and wedding-appropriate than stilettos.
- Stick to solid white. Boots with patterns or colorblocking can compete with a wedding dress.
- Know venue limits. Open toes or heels may sink into grass or dirt at outdoor weddings.
- Check with the bride. Make sure white boots fit the overall wedding style and color scheme.
- When in doubt, save for the reception. White boots tend to work better for dancing and partying later on.
With smart design choices and consideration of the bride’s vision, white boots can kick your wedding guest outfit up in a stylish way.
Alternatives to White Boots for Wedding Guests
Not sure if white boots are the right choice for a wedding? No problem! There are plenty of other shoe options that will complement your look.
Metallic shoes add glam and shine to any outfit. Go for rose gold, silver, or gold boots, heels, or flats depending on the formality. Just avoid anything too flashy.
Nude shoes elongate your legs and blend seamlessly with tights or bare legs. Try a pointed-toe mule or barely-there sandal.
Colorful shoes let you incorporate bright, fun colors like cobalt, marigold, or magenta. Whether heels, wedges, or flats, they make a vibrant statement.
Patterned shoes like floral, animal print, or polka dots give your outfit a whimsical twist. Just be sure the patterns aren’t too overpowering.
Black shoes are a fail-proof option. Boots, pumps, or block heels in black leather or suede work for any wedding style.
Sparkly shoes in materials like satin, glitter, or crystals elevate formal dresses. Stick to elegant styles – no club wear!
The options are endless for wedding-worthy shoes beyond white boots. Consider the venue, dress code, and your personal style to decide what feels right. The bride is sure to appreciate you avoiding white so she can stand out. Most importantly, wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable!
Summary of Dos and Don’ts for Wedding Attire
When preparing your wedding guest outfit, keep these key tips in mind:
The Do’s
- Choose colors that align with the dress code – lighter for casual, darker for formal. Neutrals like navy, gray, and blush are safe bets.
- Cover shoulders, chest, and legs in places of worship per etiquette. Pashminas or wraps can adjust more daring looks.
- Wear comfortable shoes you can stand and dance in. Carry a foldable pair of flats to change into later.
- Add festive touches like floral prints, lace overlays, or sparkly jewelry. This is a celebration!
The Don’t’s
- Wear white, cream, or ivory, which should be reserved for the bride. Black is also discouraged unless specified as OK by the couple.
- Show too much skin – the focus should be on the couple, not revealing outfits. Avoid excessively short, tight, or low-cut styles.
- Wear casual flip flops, sneakers, or rugged boots, which don’t complement formal attire.
- Overdo it on heavy makeup, messy hair, or loud accessories. Keep it classy.
When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the formal side. The couple’s happiness is what matters most!
People Also Asked (FAQs)
Are White Shoes Okay to Wear to a Wedding?
White shoes are generally acceptable for a wedding as long as they are not entirely white. Shoes with some color or pattern are a safer choice. Stick to white shoes with embellishments.
Is It Okay to Wear White Accessories to a Wedding?
White accessories like a bag or hat are fine for a wedding guest to wear. Just avoid wearing all white. The bride should stand out in all white. Accessories in white give a pop of color without distracting from the bride.
Can I Wear Boots With Dress as a Wedding Guest?
Boots can absolutely be worn with a dress to a wedding. Choose dress boots or heeled booties that are more formal than casual work boots. Make sure the boots fit the formality of the wedding and dress.
Can You Wear White Shoes With a Black Dress to a Wedding?
White shoes paired with a black dress is a classic and chic combination that is perfectly suitable for a wedding. The white shoes will pop against the black dress without being inappropriate.
Conclusion
The key points are that white shoes and accessories are generally fine for wedding guests, as long as they are not head-to-toe white. Shoes and accessories with some color, patterns or embellishments are better than pure white. Boots can also be worn to weddings as long as they match the formality. And white shoes specifically can be worn with black dresses. Overall, can you wear white boots to a wedding? Yes, as long as they are dress boots and not casual white boots.
