Can You Wear White to a Wedding? White and Black

Wearing white to a wedding?
Is it the ultimate faux pas?

Can I start by saying that I did NOT (and would not) wear this outfit to a wedding.
But not because it's white.

I wouldn't wear this particular dress because it is strapless, and the strapless look is a very popular bridal style.... more on that in a moment.

This party outfit got me thinking about wedding attire etiquette.
What is socially appropriate, and what is seriously frowned upon?
Is wearing white a big wedding guest faux pas?

I had a look at a few online articles, and many say a definite NO to wearing white to a wedding.
Some with no quarter given.
Just NO, okay?
Hmmmm..... I'm not sure I agree.

I also read an article that accused any woman who would wear white at a wedding of being:

 A brazen attention grabber who wants to steal the bride's thunder, and spoil their day.

Wow....pretty harsh!

Personally, I think that being overly 'sexy', or wearing skimpy clothing, is much more offensive than wearing white.
Micro miniskirts, short shorts and/or plunging necklines are a definate no-no in my book.
The bride should get all of the attention not someone's cleavage!

My decision to wear white (or not) would depend on the type of wedding I was attending, and the couple who were getting married.

For example:
A large modern wedding with a very lavishly dressed bride (and bridal party) and a "trendy" theme would allow me to feel more comfortable wearing white.... although there are boundaries!

(More on those later)

BUT, a low key wedding with a modestly dressed bride would mean white was a definate no-no.
The same goes for a very traditional wedding.
White would just seem rude.

How to wear white to a wedding without offending anyone

{Disclaimer: There is always going to be someone who has something negative to say about your outfit, but they would probably have a bit of a bitch regardless of your choices. So, ultimately, wear something that you feel comfortable in, and you feel is appropriate for the specific event you are attending.}

1. Don't wear all-white

It doesn't matter if your outfit is as un-bride-like as an outfit can be, all-white is (IMO) just rude.
Adding other colours looks great, but just because your bag is pink does not make your floor length white satin gown appropriate.
Wearing white needs careful handling.

2. Avoid bridal styles, fabrics and shapes

Avoid floor length hems, backless styles, white satin, white lace, chiffon overlays or strapless designs.
For obvious reasons.

3. Try trousers or a jumpsuit.

Wearing a more contemporary shape can make your white outfit seem less flashy and more effortless.
However, if you do choose a jumpsuit, see no.1... it still applies!

4. Use a white based pattern

White based florals look beautiful, and are a much easier way to wear white with minimum offending potential.
There are some stunning white-based patterned dresses out there.
Adding a complimenting coloured shoe, and bag, is an easy way to look wedding-guest appropriate.

5. Try soft pastels

If you love a monochromatic look, and simply have to go matchy-matchy, soft pastels look chic.
Pretty pastels are very close to the pale perfection that is white, without the potential contention.
Although cream, ivory and champagne are out of bounds!

{These gold toes don't go with this outfit, my excuse is I couldn't find my remover!}

Of course, none of these "rules" are actually rules are they?
At the end of the day the only opinion that really matters is YOURS.

What do you think about wearing white to a wedding?
A BIG no-no?
Or, anything goes in this day and age?

Please let me know what you think!
I would love to hear from you on this contentious subject.

SHOES: Topshop Unique...these are nice..... these are nothing like mine but FAB!
DRESS: Coast... Charity shopped for a pound! Yes indeed :o). This one is to die for, I LOVE!!!
BAG: Vintage... similar.
CHOKER: My youngest daughter's ...similar.
EARRINGS: Old...similar.

GET THE LOOK