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Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Birmingham | Black Mountain Weddings
You’ve spent your whole life hearing that you should never — under ANY circumstances — wear white to a wedding. However, the wedding invitation you just received specifically requests that guests wear white.
You can’t help but wonder… is this a trick?
Far from it.
A wedding with an all-white dress code creates a stunning visual that lends a gorgeous, cohesive quality to the overall wedding aesthetic, resulting in a fabulous, one-of-a-kind big day.
So, sit back and relax.
We’ve got a ton of practical tips, plus some stunning dress ideas for you. We’ve even included examples of our favorite all-white wedding attire to help ensure you nail the look.
Our Favorite All-White Wedding Guest Dresses
Because a picture says a thousand words, we’re going to start this off by providing some examples of our favorite all-white wedding guest outfits.
We’ll also give you some tips on which style of wedding they’re perfect for!
Jenny Yoo Little White Dress Nico
Jenny Yoo Little White Dress Nico
Sleek, modern, and stylish with just the right amount of flirtatious fun, this gorgeous dress is perfect for a formal event. It’s perfect for a wedding celebration on the rooftop of a historic building on a warm summer day.
Jenny Yoo Little White Dress Vienna
Jenny Yoo Little White Dress Vienna
A little bit boho, a little bit magic. This is the dress to wear to a wedding with ethereal vibes, perhaps a forest wedding or a wedding in the high desert landscape of Sedona.
Sachin & Babi Annie Gown
Sachin & Babi Annie Gown
Anyone wearing this long-sleeve midi dress will look chic and sophisticated, no questions asked. This ultra-stylish garment is ideal for a modern romantic get-together, perhaps at a winery with roses in full bloom.
It’s perfect for a formal wedding as well.
Amsale Little White Dress LW157
Amsale Little White Dress LW157
This sleek, edgy jumpsuit exudes downtown vibes. Bring a little extra pizazz by wearing it to a brunch wedding.
Or pair it with stilettos and bright lipstick and enjoy the prohibition-era vibes of a low-lit vintage cocktail bar. You know, the ones with the red velvet textured wallpaper…
Jenny Yoo Little White Dress Tula
Jenny Yoo Little White Dress Tula
Flirty and fun with a whimsical fringe (who needs ruffles?!), this dress is made for celebrating, and it’s ideal for dancing, too. Wear it to a 1920s-themed wedding, a summer wedding, or a wedding that has a fun party atmosphere.
Jenny Yoo Little White Hannah
Jenny Yoo Little White Hannah
This charming little mini dress is perfect for a summer wedding or a downtown wedding celebration event. The light ivory pearl beading adds a darling element to a dress that’s already cute as can be.
SuitShop Women’s Tan Suit
SuitShop Women’s Tan Suit
This suit jacket and pants (sold separately) combo is versatile enough to wear to any wedding that calls for white. And it’s the perfect alternative for those who cringe at the thought of wearing a skirt or dress.
Wear it with a corset for an edgier look, or pair it with a crisp white shirt underneath for a monochromatic aesthetic.
Still shopping for a dress? Check out our entire collection of wedding guest dresses to find the right one for you!
Go-To Dress Styles & Shades of White
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids | John Cain
Even though the couple asked you to show up on the wedding day in a white outfit, try to avoid a dress that looks too much like a wedding dress.
Avoid strapless gowns, off-the-shoulder styles, white lace, an uber-formal floor-length maxi dress with a low row of pearl buttons along the back... you get the idea.
Halter tops, dresses with a V-neck neckline, and short sleeves are always a safe bet.
When viewing the color palette, stick to pure white, off-white, ivory, cream, or eggshell.
Curious about other outfit rules beyond wearing white? Don’t miss our complete guide on what to wear to a wedding for key dos and don’ts every guest should know.
Accessory Options
How do you know which accessories are permitted?
If it’s not on the invitation, check with the bride.
Pastels, pearls, and metallics are usually okay. If it’s a black-tie event, there may be more accessory restrictions.
Your shoes should be the same shade of white as your dress, and consider the venue and what surfaces you’ll be walking on when deciding the style of shoe to wear.
Read: Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding as a Guest?
Proper Undergarments
Sometimes, white clothing can be a little sheer. Therefore, make sure your undergarments match your skin tone. If the dress is see-through, consider wearing a slip.
Practical Considerations
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids | Haley Anspach
Wearing white means you’re even more susceptible to Murphy’s Law. Be cautious when applying makeup, carry a stain remover in your purse, and be really careful around things like steak sauce, nature, and red wine.
If you’re accident-prone, consider bringing a backup outfit to change into, just in case.
Finally, choose a weather-appropriate outfit. Wear cool, breathable fabrics for the summer and longer dresses made of thicker fabric for cooler temps.
When in Doubt… ASK!
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Baton Rouge | September Company
Unless the invitation is extremely detailed, you’ll likely have some questions for the couple. After you’ve RSVP’d, don’t shy away from asking those questions. It’s better to know than to end up sticking out like a sore thumb.
Here’s what you may want to ask:
- • Are accent colors acceptable, and if so, which ones? Maybe you have a pair of killer black heels you’d like a chance to wear, or you feel naked without your jewelry stack.
- • How formal is the dress code? The dress code details are usually on the invitation, but if not, ask.
- • Can you wear a patterned garment — for example, a white floral dress — if it’s white on white? There are some really cute white-on-white patterns that provide texture and visual interest. If you find one that you love, check to see if it’s permitted before you purchase it.
- • Are sequin or shimmery dresses okay if they’re white? This is another worthwhile question, as some dresses made from tulle have a sparkly or shimmery sheen.
From beach weddings to formal red carpet like celebrations, an all-white wedding is a sight to behold. By asking the right questions and having the necessary backups just in case, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.
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