Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding? An Expert Weighs In (2024)

A wedding is a big deal for more than just the couple. It’s a joining of families and friends, a celebration of love, and a night you’ll remember for years to come. Meaning: As a wedding guest, you have to dress appropriately for the occasion.

Luckily, couples today are experimenting with traditional dress codes, making it a bit easier for guests to show off their personalities when dressing up for such an important event. But while wedding dress code etiquette has changed a lot over the years, there are still a few widely regarded faux pas all individuals should avoid—chief among them, wearing white to the wedding. However, does the "avoid wearing white" rule apply to white shoes?

Ahead, we tapped Sarah Klingman, founder and CEO of the wedding planning company Gather, to help answer the question, "Can you wear white shoes to a wedding?" Read on for everything you need to know, no matter if you're attending a beachy, garden party or a black-tie affair.

Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding?

It’s not a hard and fast rule, but it’s probably best to skip the white shoes when attending a wedding. “When it comes to wedding etiquette, it's wise to steer clear of white, off-white, or very pale colors,” says Klingman, as white is a color traditionally meant for the to-be-weds. She also adds, "Generally, it's understood that avoiding white is respectful unless the bride expressly requests it.” Other generally accepted wedding guest attire rules include avoiding anything super sheer, distressed, or overly casual—unless the dress code requests that, of course.

That said, you do have a little more wiggle room when it comes to white shoes for modern, laid-back weddings, depending on the type of outfit you choose to wear. “White shoes can be acceptable if they're not overly prominent and are part of a well-coordinated outfit," shares Klingman. Nonetheless, it's best to stick with a nude, pale gray, blush, or pastel shoe, instead of pure white or ivory, when getting dressed for someone's big day. Klingman also calls metallics a “new neutral,” and says that a silver or gold shoe is always a great option.

Need some additional shoe tips? Unless the wedding vibe is more casual, or the ceremony is held outdoors and the couple is okay with it, it’s best to ditch the sneakers. Also, never show up to a wedding in dirty, distressed, or scuffed shoes. As for what you should wear, a classic pump for women—as long as it doesn't feel overly bridal—or black dress shoes for men are always timeless options. If the wedding is outdoors, women should also consider block heels or flats to easily walk around on grass or turf.

Wedding Guest Fashion Etiquette Tips

When planning your wedding guest look, think about the weather, the venue, and the couple themselves to avoid any missteps. “If in doubt, it's appropriate to ask the hosts or planner for clarification,” shares Klingman. “For semi-formal or formal weddings, leaning towards a more conservative choice is safer. Remember, the focus should be on comfort and respecting the couple's chosen theme.”Additionally, since couples are now sharing more explicit dress code instructions—including moodboards of colors or overall vibe—be sure to respect all instructions provided on an invitation or a wedding website, and follow them as much as possible.

If possible, you should also consider asking a bridesmaid or planner for color scheme information before the event so you don’t show up looking like a member of the wedding party. “Opting for printed attire can be a strategic choice to distinguish yourself since bridal parties often wear solid colors in line with traditional wedding styles. This approach helps guests stand out in their own right while respecting the wedding's aesthetic theme," notes Klingman. However, always avoid wearing a light-colored dress or suit that could read as white or a white dress with a pattern, which still technically counts as white.

What if you arrive at the wedding and immediately know your outfit is all wrong? It happens, but it’s not the end of the world. “The best course of action is to remain discreet and minimize attention,” Klingman advises. “If possible, subtly adjust your outfit using a shawl or accessory. The key is to handle the situation gracefully without causing a distraction.”