don’t wear red to a wedding — cerriously (2024)

Do not wear red to a wedding. Just don’t. Ok there is more to it, but really, don’t wear the color red. And while I’m at it, in case you didn’t know,white is never okay either.Although these are both personally something I dislike, there are etiquette reasons for avoiding these colors as well.

You should avoid white because that color is typically reserved for the bride. It’s one day in her life that is strictly ALL ABOUT HER. Don’t try to steal it. Wearing white is like you are trying to compete with her — think who wore it best.Not cool.

Also, try to avoid colors that look like white, cream for example, because not only does the bride reserve the right to wear that color for her special day, it also can photograph like white. And nobody wants that.

Now, red is inappropriate for a similar reason, but instead of competing, you are trying to outshine her. Red is a bright color. It stands out in a crowd. Ever hear that your car insurance is higher if your car is red? Same thing — you are easily seen. People notice you. And yes, I’m all for looking great and being noticed, but do it for you, not for the color you’re wearing,or to take away from someone's special day.

Besides, there are plenty of other colors out there that you can choose from. It’s one day, one event, just leave the red and white at home.

So what should you wear? I typically shop at Lulu’s for special occasion dresses — they have the best selection! Nordstrom, Red Dress Boutique and Revolve are a few other favorites. And below are some of my favorite dresses right now that will keep eyes on the bride,but have you (the appropriate guest) dressed for the occasion.

don’t wear red to a wedding — cerriously (2024)

FAQs

Why shouldn't you wear red to a wedding? ›

"Tradition dictates guests avoid wearing red out of fear that it could take attention away from the happy couple,” explains Hurwitz. “Visually, it's quite bold. In a photo, your eye is immediately drawn to the color, especially if it's next to neutrals like white, black, gray, or beige.”

Can you wear red to a Mexican wedding? ›

You should avoid wearing white or red by any means to any Mexican wedding. Wearing white is considered rude to the bride since they will definitely be wearing white, so choosing to wear the same color on their special day is considered rude. Red, on the other hand, is more of an urban legend.

What colors are not appropriate to wear to a wedding? ›

Traditionally, the only off-limits color for wedding guests has been white, for obvious reasons—no one wants to take attention away from the bride.

Can you wear red to an Italian wedding? ›

The dress code is usually the same as you might expect – formal, with no white or black dresses, I have also heard from some brides that bright red is seen as highly offensive. While this is true, I have attended a few weddings that women wore white and black, and surprisingly the bride was not too angry.

Why can't you wear black to a wedding? ›

Account for Tradition. In some cultures, black is less common for weddings. "Certain cultures, such as Indian and Chinese cultures, tend to stay away from black because it represents being in mourning. You want to take an extra thought if you are attending a more traditional wedding to be respectful," says Avrumson.

What is the best color to wear to a wedding? ›

Neutral shades are timeless options that won't detract from the wedding's formal atmosphere. For a more colorful look, consider wearing shades of blue, lavender, or pink to show that you're in the celebratory spirit. If the wedding is in a tropical destination, opt for colors like yellow, orange, and green.

What culture wears red to weddings? ›

While red is considered the traditional color for brides in Hindu weddings, there are instances where they may opt for different colors based on personal preferences or regional customs.

What countries wear red for wedding? ›

In Eastern cultures such as China and India, brides typically choose to wear red wedding dresses to represent good luck and auspiciousness.

Can you wear red to a Korean wedding? ›

For a traditional Korean wedding, the bride and groom will wear specific colors. The bride will typically wear red, and the groom will wear blue to symbolize the Confucian idea of yin and yang. A yin color (blue) is meant to bring healing and relaxation, and a yang color (red) provides enthusiasm and active energy.

What colour is taboo for wedding guests? ›

The main being the bride explicitly asking guests not to wear white. And if they don't explicitly state that guests can't wear white, it's always best to err on the side of caution and choose another color. Lastly, you don't want to detract from the bride on their big day!

What does red mean at a wedding? ›

Turns out, wearing red to a wedding means to some that “you've slept with the groom.” “Old Wives' Tale, but yeah,” Mitchell explained. However, both wedding planners agreed on a more modern reason for not wearing red: It could be seen as a way to grab the attention away from the bride.

What is inappropriate to wear to a wedding? ›

Anything Too Casual

We get it, no one wants to quit their coziest clothing like yoga pants, slippers, and jeans, but it's important to remember that these have no place at a wedding. Even if the celebration is casual and relaxed, guests should always err on the side of formal.

Is there a rule about wearing red to a wedding? ›

Summary. To answer the main question of the article, yes you can wear red to a wedding in most circ*mstances. However, in some situations you may want to check with the marrying couple that red is acceptable to wear as a guest and it won't go against their culture or distract from their big day.

Can I wear red to a German wedding? ›

Of course, only the bride wears white. Please avoid wearing very light colours in general, like beige or cream for example. The only exception: You got the go from the bride or the dresscode is “white for everyone”. Especially in Germany, you shouldn't wear red on weddings, but this may differ from country to country.

What is the Italian chic dress code? ›

Italian women achieve this beautiful mix between comfortability and elegance. Many wear flowing fabrics like linen or cotton. Choosing fabrics that allow breathability is what will keep you looking and feeling fresh! Italian women also choose to invest in classically styled, high quality shoes and accessories.

What does a red wedding dress mean? ›

The colour of love, the bride who wears red is bold, passionate and full of desire. Not for the fainthearted this is a bold statement to make on your wedding day.

What does the red dress symbolize? ›

The red dresses serve as a visceral reminder of the thousands of Indigenous daughters, sisters, mothers, aunties, grandmothers and two-spirit family members and friends who have been victims of violence, often abducted assaulted or murdered without adequate investigation or justice.

Is it rude to wear wedding colors to a wedding? ›

The colour scheme, when it comes to what to wear, is designed for the bridal party i.e. the groom, groomsmen, bridesmaids, pageboys etc. Unless you're in that bridal party, you'd be best to steer clear of trying to match them. Think of it a bit like a stage show.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Kieth Sipes

Last Updated:

Views: 6492

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (47 voted)

Reviews: 94% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kieth Sipes

Birthday: 2001-04-14

Address: Suite 492 62479 Champlin Loop, South Catrice, MS 57271

Phone: +9663362133320

Job: District Sales Analyst

Hobby: Digital arts, Dance, Ghost hunting, Worldbuilding, Kayaking, Table tennis, 3D printing

Introduction: My name is Kieth Sipes, I am a zany, rich, courageous, powerful, faithful, jolly, excited person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.