7 things you should never wear to a wedding (2024)

Advertisem*nt

A white dress

Despite it being a common tradition for the bride to wear white on her wedding day, some guests really do turn up to weddings in white dresses.

Other bridal colors and styles of dresses are also out of the question.

"If it could be a wedding dress, it shouldn't be on your body unless you're the bride," Jacobs told INSIDER. "Avoid anything white. Same goes for creme, light beige, off white, eggshell ... and especially white lace."

There's only one exception to this rule: You can wear it only if the bride has explicitly said guests can wear white. In Jacobs' words, "If you are told to wear white (like to a snowball affair or white party), wear it!"

Advertisem*nt

The same color as the bridesmaids

Dressinglike the bride is one problem; dressing like abridesmaid is another.

"If you actually know what the bridesmaids are wearing, and YOU'RE not a bridesmaid, try to avoid looking like a member of the bridal party," Jacobs said. "Don't overthink it, and certainly don't bother the bride, but if you're sure that the bridesmaids are all wearing pink chiffon, maybe go for gray instead."

Advertisem*nt

Denim

"Unless its a Denim and Diamonds dress code, denim is pretty much an unwelcome guest at a wedding," Jacobssaid."This doesn't mean that pants or a jumpsuit are off the table, but it's best to leave your jeans at home."

There's perhaps one exception to the rule. The wedding planner suggeststhe only acceptable way to wear denim to a more casual wedding is if you opt fora smart outfit, like this elegant dark denim dress from Neiman Marcus.

If you're not sure, just don't wear it.

Advertisem*nt

Shorts or khakis

For anyone thinking of wearing shorts to a wedding, Jacobs hastwo words: "Just don't."

Khakisare another big faux pas."If the invite says semiformal, do not wear khakis," the planner said.

Advertisem*nt

Sweatpants

"I'd say this goes without saying, but with the rise of athleisure — and fancy athleisure — sweats have no place at a wedding," Jacobs said. "So just don't."

Advertisem*nt

A very revealing dress

While you'll feel underdressed at most weddings in shorts orsweatpants, you can wear a fancy outfit — andbe underdressed in a more literal sense.

"Fashion that reveals what's underneath is everywhere these days," the wedding planner said.
"A deep plunging back looks gorgeous but not when we can see your [bra] straps. Invest in a quality strapless bra or have your tailor sew cups inside."

That doesn't mean you should feel as ifyou have to cover up completely, though."It's OKto show some skin, but show it with caution and class, and always plan to cover up during a ceremony with a shawl or cape,"Jacobs said.

Advertisem*nt

A distracting or extreme outfit

Just as bad as outfits that show too much are outfits that show off too much.

"This is the couple's day to shine, so while you should dress up and dress festive, don't overdo it," Jacobs said. "If you're on the fence or need a barometer, ask yourself, 'If I were the bride, would I want my guest to wear this?'" If the answer is no, you probably shouldn't wear it.

"It sounds obvious, but all too often, it happens, so better to be safe than sorry."