What to Wear · Style Guide

What to Wear to a Wedding: The Complete Guest Guide

Working out what to wear to a wedding is one of those pleasant problems. The dress code, the season, the venue and the time of day all play a part, and once you know how to read them the decision becomes far easier.

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What to Wear to a Wedding: The Complete Guest Guide
01 — Dress Code

Dressing for the dress code

The invitation usually tells you everything you need to know, so read it before anything else. The dress code sets the tone, and once you have matched your outfit to it the rest falls into place.

Black Tie

Black Tie

A formal floor-length gown in satin, chiffon or a fluid evening silhouette. Finish with statement jewellery and heels.

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Semi-Formal

Semi-Formal

A cocktail dress in a rich colour or a pretty print, with ruching or draping that flatters the figure.

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Casual

Casual

A lighter day dress in a breathable fabric, printed styles or soft pastels for an easy, relaxed mood.

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02 — Season

Dressing for the season

The time of year shapes both fabric and colour. Matching your outfit to the season keeps you comfortable and looking right for the setting.

03 — Colour

Choosing the right colour

Colour is where you can bring some personality to your outfit, within one or two simple guidelines. Avoid white and anything close to it, and steer clear of shades that might overshadow the bride.

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Wedding guest style over 50
04 — Over 50

Wedding guest style over 50

Dressing for a wedding after 50 is about wearing what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Elegant midi and maxi lengths, considered necklines and quality fabrics tend to work beautifully.

Plus size wedding guest style
05 — Plus Size

Plus size wedding guest style

The right wedding guest outfit should celebrate you and feel wonderful to wear. Look for styles that skim and define, in fabrics that hold their shape, and colours and prints you genuinely love.

06 — Destination

Destination and outdoor weddings

A destination wedding brings the climate and location into the decision. Browse our Resort edit for a flowing maxi dress or a chic jumpsuit, or our Garden Party Dresses collection for an outdoor setting.

Destination Wedding Guest Style

Destination Wedding Guest Style

Lightweight occasionwear for beautiful celebrations away from home.

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Complete the look
07 — Finishing Touches

Complete the look

The finishing touches pull the whole outfit together. Keep each element considered, polished and comfortable enough to take you from ceremony to dance floor.

01

Jewellery

Choose pieces that complement your outfit without competing with it.

02

Bags

A compact occasion clutch keeps the overall look polished.

03

Shoes

Think about venue, comfort and how long you will be on your feet.

04

Hair & Makeup

Keep the finish fresh, elegant and in balance with your dress.

Frequently Asked Questions

About wedding guest outfits

Start with the dress code on the invitation, then factor in the season and venue. Avoid white and anything too close to bridal.

Choose what makes you feel confident. Elegant midi and maxi lengths, flattering necklines and quality fabrics work well.

Avoid white, ivory, cream and anything that could be mistaken for bridal. Jewel tones, pastels and prints are all safe choices.

Look for styles that skim and define in fabrics that hold their shape, in colours and prints you love.

Yes. Long sleeves are a lovely choice for cooler seasons and for more formal dress codes.

Wedding Guest Edit

Ready to find your outfit?

Dressing for a wedding as a guest comes down to balancing style, comfort and occasion. Browse the full collection or explore the wedding shop for everything in one place.

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