What To Wear to a Wedding: 10 Comfortable Ideas
Being a wedding guest, whether it’s a summer wedding, a winter wedding, or anywhere in between, can be a stressful time for many. With so much going on, you may find yourself fretting over what to wear for the big day after you receive your wedding invitation. But it doesn’t have to be stressful! There are plenty of comfortable, stylish, and sophisticated ideas for a wedding outfit that won’t make you feel out of place in the crowd.
Need some inspo? TomboyX has you covered. Read on to discover nine ideas for wedding guest attire that fit the dress code and keep you comfortable.
1. A Maxi Dress
The maxi dress is a timeless semi-formal option that looks good on any body type, and it’s especially a staple for spring weddings. Opt for a floral print or patterned maxi dress with long sleeves and jewelry for an elegant look.
For a fall wedding, layer it over a turtleneck or thin cashmere sweater. Add some ankle strap heels and simple accessories to complete this autumnal outfit idea.
2. Trouser Suit and Tie
A trouser suit, dress shirt, and tie is the ultimate combination for formal dress code weddings. You can find them in many colors and styles, so you’ll easily be able to find something flattering.
Look for suits with exciting details such as embroidery or sequins for an extra touch of style. You can even go bold with colors in 2023 and beyond. For instance, citrus-toned trousers will make your ensemble look modern and upbeat while still being appropriate for the occasion.
When wearing a trouser suit, always pair a necktie or a bow tie with the color and style of the suit itself — if you choose to wear a tie, that is. While black-tie wedding attire is common, not every wedding you attend will be that formal. At a semi-formal wedding, you can easily get away with something patterned without accidentally making any faux pas.
Overall, ties make a suit look more dressy and timeless, but an open-neck trouser suit with some stylish loafers is dreamy for the dance floor. For a trendy gender-neutral look, wear your suit with suspenders instead of a belt and experiment with accessories like cufflinks or a pocket square.
3. Jumpsuit
If you don’t feel like wearing a cocktail dress, opt for a jumpsuit instead! They come in countless styles. It’s a breeze to find one-pieces that fit perfectly and sync up with a wedding’s formal attire.
Choose from bold colors, prints, ruffles, and more, depending on how daring you feel. Emphasize your waistline with a belt and add high-heeled sandals or comfy mules if you don’t want to wear high heels all day long.
4. Floral Midi Dress
For those who prefer sweet dresses, go for this classic floral midi number! It has been having much success in recent years due to its adorably chic look and breathability during outdoor summertime weddings. Spice up your midi dress with gold jewelry or statement earrings that catch attention without looking too flashy.
5. Palazzo Pants
Palazzo pants are wide-leg yoga-style pants that are incredibly popular right now due to their comfort factor, making them a brilliant choice for long days spent celebrating. Pair them with light tops such as spaghetti straps and off-the-shoulder blouses or shirts in pastel colors like baby pink, bright blue, or mint green.
Throw on some flat sandals or stylish wedges, and finish off with delicate earrings and necklaces if desired. These are a smart option for a beach wedding or daytime museum wedding.
6. Embellished Midi Skirt
Let yourself shine by wearing an embellished midi skirt which is especially appropriate at outdoor weddings where everyone wants to keep cool but still look chic. Consider skirts decorated with beads, frills, lace border detailing, and more, so all eyes will be on you whilst dancing around too!
Team up your embellished midi skirt with an airy blouse in neutral shades, such as black or beige — all of which are also very comfortable yet stylish options when attending a special event.
8. Separates
Separates are a great way to show off your personality. Try wearing a tailored blazer over a lacy top and a high-waisted skirt or chinos. This look is perfect for a more casual wedding and allows you to mix and match pieces to create a unique look.
Cropped tops and shorts\skirts sets is another flirty combination that works wonders when trying to keep cool and chic during weddings that take place in especially warm weather. Opt between cropped t-shirts featuring lace trims paired up shorts/skirts sets made out of lightweight fabrics featuring varied textures (such as linen). Adding color pops through accessories such as chunky earrings along the way makes this combo even more fun and fashionable too!
9. Wrap Dress
When it comes to comfort, wrap dresses are your new bestie. Most wrap dresses are made from lightweight fabrics, such as chiffon or silk, which will keep you feeling cool and comfortable all night long. When it comes to accessorizing your wrap dress, there are plenty of options. A pair of statement earrings, a bold necklace, or a classic belt can all be used to elevate your look.
10. Romper
If you’re looking for a look that’s both stylish and comfortable, then a romper is a perfect choice. Rompers come in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns, making it easy to find one that suits your unique sense of style. Whether you opt for a classic black romper, or something more eye-catching with a fun print, you are sure to stand out from the crowd.
To complete the look, add a pair of heels. This will add a touch of elegance to your outfit while also keeping you comfortable. To finish off your look, accessorize with some statement earrings, a bold necklace, or a shimmering bracelet.
Tips for Dressing Comfortable
When it comes to dressing for a wedding, knowing what to wear can often be a challenge. Of course, you want to look fabulous, but it’s also essential to be comfortable. After all, weddings can be long and tiring, and if you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, it’s going to be a long day for you.
With this in mind, here are some tips to keep in mind when picking out what to wear:
Tip 1: Consider the Venue
The first step in dressing for a wedding is to consider the venue, which you can typically find on the wedding website. Different venues call for different styles of dress. If the wedding is going to be held outdoors, choose something light and airy, like a flowy skirt or a light cotton button-down, both of which fit into the cocktail attire dress code.
If it’s an indoor black-tie optional affair, you might want to opt for something more formal, such as a dress or suit. Knowing the venue (and the time of day when the wedding takes place) will help you determine what kind of clothing you should wear.
Tip 2: Choose the Right Color
Color is a major player come wedding season. You want to choose colors that are appropriate for the occasion but don’t make you look like a groom, bride, or member of the wedding party.
Generally, you should choose colors that are light and airy. If you find bright colors to be a bit overwhelming, stick to softer colors such as pastels and neutrals.
However, bear in mind that wearing a white dress to a wedding can be a party foul in some cases. Wearing white to many weddings is usually a faux pax, which can be the same for bridal showers and bachelorette parties.
Tip 3: Go for the Smartest Fabrics
In addition to color, the fabric of your outfit is also important. You want to choose fabrics that are comfortable to wear and easy to move in. Lightweight cotton and linens work well in hot weather, while heavier fabrics like tweed and velvet are lovely in cooler weather.
Make sure to choose fabrics that are breathable and easy to move in. Variations like TENCEL™ Modal are as soft as your fav loungewear pants and can work in casual venues.
Tip 4: Pick Comfortable Shoes
Weddings can last for hours, so it’s important to choose shoes that are comfortable and fit the wedding guest dress code. You don’t want to be walking around in uncomfortable heels or dress shoes all day, and you definitely don’t want to look out of place in flip-flops.
Opt for a flat shoe or a low-heeled sandal. If you want to add a bit of height, you can add a wedge or a platform shoe. Just make sure they are comfortable, and don’t pinch your feet.
Pro Tip: Just as it’s important to wear comfortable shoes, it’s also important to wear comfortable underwear. Good quality undergarments allow the skin to breathe while preventing moisture build-up.
Tip 5: Include Accessories That Fit Wedding Dress Code
Accessories will take your outfit to the next level. A statement necklace, a pair of earrings, or a stylish belt can add the perfect finishing touch to your ensemble. Choose accessories that are simple yet elegant and that don’t overpower the get-up.
Tip 6: Test Your Outfit Before the Wedding
Before the big day, it’s always a good idea to test out your outfit. Wear the outfit for a day or two, and make sure everything fits and that it’s comfortable. This will help you avoid any last-minute outfit disasters on the big day. This includes breaking in any high heels, testing out new perfumes, and making sure jewelry clasps are functioning properly.
Tip 7: Have Fun
Finally, don’t forget to have fun with your outfit! Your outfit should reflect your personality and style, so don’t be afraid to add a bit of your own flair. Try exciting accessories and colors, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
The Final Word
Ultimately, when it comes to finding something comfortable yet fashionable for a wedding, there are lots of options available, no matter what shape or size you are. So take inspiration from these nine wonderful ideas and dress comfortably — without compromising on style — at your next nuptial celebration!
Sources:
Fabrics from the Land & the Lab | ACS
7 Reasons Why Comfortable Shoes Are Important | Johnny Holland
It's Never OK to Wear White to Another Person's Wedding | Insider