Wedding guest dresses - dress codes and what they mean

Rumming through the closet the day before the wedding to look for the right dress or suit not a good idea. Also because there is one or the other dress code to consider when it comes to weddings.

In the invitation to the wedding, there is often not only the date and place, but also information on the dress code. If the invitation does not refer to a special dress code, it is advisable to find out about the location of the wedding ceremony and celebration. The same applies if the invitation only states that festive clothing is requested. This statement is just too imprecise. If the wedding is celebrated in a castle, for example, a different wardrobe is recommended than if the celebration takes place in a village barn.

Important rules for choosing an outfit

The basic rule is that the wedding guests are guided by the wishes of the bridal couple in terms of their clothing. Anything else would be impolite. In addition, there are also some basic rules that the wedding guests should observe.

The most important rule is that the bride and groom are the center of attention. So it is inappropriate when a wedding guest steals the show with his outfit from the bridal couple, especially the bride. This also means that only the bride can wear white. The colors cream, champagne and black are also a no-go. All wedding guests should adhere to this in order to show respect and courtesy to the bridal couple.

It is also inappropriate for women to wear mini skirts or dresses with a very low neckline. This is especially true for a church wedding. Shoulders and décolleté should be covered with a stole, a bolero or a jacket. In addition, there is generally a rather decent dress code in the church.

Dress codes for the wedding

It is quite common that wedding invitations do not describe in detail which wardrobe is required. Instead, the dress code is stated with an actual "code," or a word or two. On official occasions such as a wedding, the words "white tie" are very often mentioned. This means that men must wear black tails and trousers and a white waistcoat. A concealed button placket, a white bow tie and patent leather shoes are also mandatory. Women should wear a full length evening dress with shoulders covered upon arrival.

If the invitation says "Black Tie", men are requested to wear a black tuxedo, cummerbund, black bow tie, handkerchief and black shoes. Women, on the other hand, wear a long evening dress.

Sometimes the code is called "Cut" at weddings. Here men are allowed to wear a black lap jacket with a continuous curved front edge (cut), a tie and a white shirt with a collar. Women should come in costume with the skirt covering the knees. If, on the other hand, the code "Informal" is included in the invitation, women are allowed to wear elegant, half-length evening dresses. Gentlemen should appear in black or dark gray suits.

What dress for a wedding guest?

As a female wedding guest, as already mentioned, you should avoid the color white when choosing your dress. You should also not resort to signal colors such as red. Black is also taboo as this color is a symbol of mourning. At a wedding, however, only tears of joy should flow. An exception is a two-tone dress where, for example, the top or bottom is black.

If you are good friends with the bride, it is best to ask her what she thinks of the dress you have chosen. Since the day belongs exclusively to the bridal couple, she can also dictate what you wear. This also applies, for example, if you are a bridesmaid. They usually wear these uniform bridesmaid dresses.

But don't let all these rules and regulations discourage you, because you're guaranteed to find the right dress easier than you think. Case, cocktail or evening dresses are always a good choice thanks to their classic cuts and lines. Mint, light blue or pastel shades always work.

If you're not sure which cut suits your figure best, the following tips will help you.

What dress for a maid of honor?

The bride's maid of honor is of course a very special guest. This usually stands out from the other wedding guests with their dress. Nevertheless, simple elegance is required next to the bride. To do justice to this style, you should choose a knee-length or floor-length evening dress. Avoid a plunging neckline in the front or back. In terms of color, the maid of honor could be pink, light blue or light gray. It is best if you coordinate your choice of dress with the bride. Pumps or elegant sandals with the dress round off the maid of honor outfit perfectly.

What suit for a wedding guest?

Men are often said to have it much easier than women when it comes to choosing their clothes. However, this can be more difficult when it comes to wedding fashion. But if you follow a few basic rules, choosing the right outfit becomes child's play.

You should avoid the worst faux pas, which includes sneakers in particular. These have no place at a wedding - unless you want to make a statement with the blessing of the bridal couple. If the wedding is a little more informal, you can throw on loafers as an alternative. Another alternative are oxford shoes. You really can't go wrong with these because these shoes are elegant and suitable for a wedding. It is best if the color of the shoes matches the color of the belt.

When choosing a tie, it should not be conspicuously decorated or patterned. Since the bride and groom are the center of attention, you should not compete with them with your outfit. It also applies to suits and shirts that flashy colors or eye-catching patterns are not suitable for a wedding. A solid light blue or rose tie is a good choice. A handkerchief can also look classy.

There is one very important rule to remember when it comes to jackets. You are only allowed to take off your jacket when the groom does so. As a courtesy, follow this custom. Here's the biggest fashion faux pas: wearing jeans at a wedding.

Are you asking yourself which suit or cut suits you best?

Want to see how not? In our photo series "The curious pictures of the royal wedding" there are some fashion missteps of the guests of Queen's granddaughter Zara Phillips to discover.

You can get more tips in our wedding special and in the article "Buying a wedding dress: How to find your dream dress".

Click here for the photo gallery: The most beautiful wedding locations in North Rhine-Westphalia