When it comes to attending weddings, there is a multitude of unspoken rules and etiquettes to navigate. Among them, the age-old question: Can wedding guests wear white? Traditionally, wearing white to a wedding was associated with upstaging the bride or showing a lack of respect for her special day. However, as times change and fashion evolves, some argue that this rule should be reconsidered. I want to explore both sides of this debate and shed light on the modern perspective surrounding guests wearing white to weddings.

The tradition behind not wearing white

For generations, the notion that only the bride should wear white on her wedding day has been deeply ingrained in our cultural and international traditions. White has long symbolised purity, innocence, and the beginning of a new chapter in a woman’s life. By wearing white, the bride stands out as the focal point, signifying her unique role on this special occasion. Consequently, guests wearing white could be seen as attempting to divert attention away from the bride.

There has been a shift in perspectives over the past few decades, with fashion trends challenging the long-standing tradition of forbidding guests from wearing white. Supporters of guests wearing white believe that it is not only acceptable but also stylish, modern and sophisticated. They argue that white is a classic and elegant choice that can be worn without overshadowing the bride or detracting from her special day. But, there must be some considerations for wearing white to a wedding:

1. Respect the bride

Regardless of your personal opinion on the matter, it is crucial to prioritise the bride’s feelings and wishes. If she has explicitly requested that guests refrain from wearing white, it is essential to respect her request and choose a different colour.

2. Accessorise appropriately

If you opt for wearing white, consider accessorising with coloured or patterned accessories to differentiate your outfit from a bridal gown. This will help maintain a respectful balance and avoid any potential confusion.

3. Cultural and regional Variations:

It’s important to recognise that different cultures and regions may have their own customs and expectations regarding wedding attire. Researching and respecting these traditions will ensure that you are appropriately dressed and sensitive to cultural nuances.

Of course, there’s always an exception, so if — and only if — the bride has called for guests to wear white, never wear this colour to someone’s special day. My personal advice on this subject is based on years of experience and personal conversations with brides, couples, and guests, and I stand by it. We should all be aware that some people are more sensitive about wedding traditions than others, and that this can be impossible to predict, regardless of how well you think you know the bride. Not to mention that it is becoming very popular for bridesmaids to also wear white. So, while I think its OK to wear white in certain situations (if the bride asks guests to), the safer option is to find a suitable alternative to the white dress you were hoping to wear.

The question of whether wedding guests can and should wear white remains a subject of ongoing debate. Ultimately, the decision rests with the couple and their preferences. By prioritising the couple’s wishes and considering the dress code and cultural context, guests can make informed choices that strike a balance between personal style and respect for the bride’s special day.