Look, my wedding is still years away, but I’m already preparing my friends and family for the massive celebration that is to come. I am the definition of a fashion girl, so naturally, I'm sure I'll have something to say about what guests wear to my special day. To simplify things, I’m more specific about what I’d prefer that they don’t wear.
Recently, I attended a wedding as a plus-one, and I had never met the bride before, so as I selected my dress, I was very thoughtful about what I chose, hoping not to offend anyone. While I was getting ready for the wedding, I decided to film a video about the rules that I follow as a wedding guest, and it went viral with over 300,000 people expressing that they agreed with me.
Before I get into my wedding guest rules, I must mention this disclaimer: If you’re unsure and you have a close enough relationship with the couple to text them, I’d just snap a photo of your dress and ask them what they think. If you don’t know them well enough to send that text, stay on the safe side and follow these rules. My wedding still isn’t happening anytime soon, but if you’re attending, know that I’d scream at you if you wore one of these six things.
Skip: Massive Cutouts
Shop: A Subtle Glimpse of Skin
I still haven't forgotten the dress Kendall Jenner wore that broke the internet. Her dress was amazing, but there were so many cutouts and the internet got into a heated debate. Was it appropriate for her to wear that dress to a wedding? My opinion is that weddings are not the best time for a dress that has a ton of massive cutouts. One of my friends recently asked guests specifically not to wear any cutouts, since she felt it was inappropriate for the occasion. Save that cutout dress for your next trip with your besties.
A modest leg slit is a great way of accomplishing a subtle glimpse of skin.
Strapless is another great way to show more skin. Add some highlighter to your décolletage for an extra pop.
This cutout is so tiny that it passes my test. I'm convinced this is the perfect dress for a black-tie occasion.
Skip: Plunging Necklines
Shop: Modest Yet Flattering Cuts
Plunging necklines make for a very fun and bold fashion statement, but I'm not sure the couple's older family members will be in tune with that trend. There are so many dresses that can flatter your bust without showing way too much. Look for sweetheart necklines or bustier-style tops if that's an area you'd like to complement while still being modest.
Smocking always makes the bust look good.
This is such an elegant wedding guest dress.
If you're itching to show more skin, I highly suggest this one.
Skip: Red
Shop: This Season's Color Palette
One of the most controversial debates of all is whether or not red is appropriate for a wedding day. I say unless you know the couple personally and have gotten their permission, skip the bold shade of red. In some cultures, red is what the bride wears, and since you don't want to steal the show from her, I say skip the red and wear one of the season's hottest colorways instead. This year, I'd try to play around with green or pink.
This is simply a must-have.
I'm all about the electric-blue colorway.
I'm in love with this shade of green.
Since you can dress this one up or down, it's definitely worth the splurge.
Skip: Minidresses
Shop: Midi Never Fails
Minidresses are a great option for an event that lists the dress code as cocktail attire, but think of a wedding as your opportunity to pick out something that has a longer silhouette. Midi- and maxi-length dresses are so flattering and the perfect attire for a wedding guest. Knee-length is also an appropriate length.
This floral option will definitely never fail.
Knee-length works if midi dresses aren't your thing, and this one manages to be super sexy without showing too much skin.
BRB, entering my pleated-dress era.
If you can get away with wearing red, this is a dress is one to know.
Skip: Denim Anything
Shop: Formal Trousers or a Jumpsuit
It might be a habit for you to grab a denim jacket before attending a wedding, but I suggest otherwise. It should go without saying, but jeans are an absolute no-no. You won't regret wearing a pantsuit if you're looking to dance all night.
If you like wearing an oversize blazer, I think this one is for you.
Layering up with a vest is a total fashion-person move.
The cost per wear on these pants is going to be pennies.
Comfortable heels are a must for a wedding.
Skip: Light Colors That Could Be Confused for White
Shop: Florals
I attended a wedding once, and one of the guests was wearing a champagne gown. I mistakenly thought she was the bride and was shocked to learn otherwise. If you're attending a wedding where the couple traditionally wears white, steer very clear of any sort of champagne colorway. Some very light pinks could also be confused for white in photos, so keep that in mind as well.
This dress will look so good at a beach wedding.
These florals are so pretty.
I have the mini version of this dress and am just dreaming of getting my hands on the long version.
If the couple wants their guests to look fun, Farm Rio is your destination.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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