Wedding Guest Etiquette: What to Wear (and Avoid) in 2024
If you’ve received an invitation to a wedding, it’s an honor to be included in such a special day for the happy couple. But along with the excitement of attending a wedding comes the stress of figuring out what to wear. You want to look your best, but you also want to follow proper wedding guest etiquette. And with changing fashion trends, it can be tough to know what is and isn’t appropriate to wear to a wedding. In this article, we’ll take a look at what wedding guest attire for 2024 might look like and what you should avoid wearing to ensure you don’t commit any etiquette faux pas.
The Current State of Wedding Guest Attire
Before we take a peek into the future, let’s first discuss the current expectations when it comes to wedding guest attire. Traditional weddings often call for formal attire, with the dress code typically listed as “black tie optional” or “black tie preferred.” This usually means a floor-length gown for women and a tuxedo or dark suit for men.
But in recent years, weddings have become more casual and relaxed. Couples are opting for non-traditional venues and themes, and this is reflected in the dress code as well. Many invitations now state “cocktail attire” or “semi-formal” which allows for more freedom in terms of clothing choices.
While the current trend may be leaning towards a more casual approach, that doesn’t mean you can show up to a wedding in jeans and a t-shirt. As a guest, it’s important to show respect for the couple and their special day by dressing appropriately.
Wedding Guest Attire for 2024
The Rise of Sustainable and Ethical Fashion
In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards sustainable and ethical fashion. This trend is only expected to continue, and by 2024, it’s likely that more and more couples will opt for eco-friendly and ethical weddings. This means that as a wedding guest, you should also consider sustainable options when choosing your attire.
Look for dresses and suits made from sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo. You can also opt to rent a dress or suit instead of buying something new, reducing the environmental impact of your outfit. Not only will you be following the latest fashion trend, but you’ll also feel good about wearing something that aligns with your values.
Gender-Neutral Dressing
In recent years, the concept of gender-neutral dressing has gained traction in the fashion industry. As wedding traditions continue to evolve, we can expect to see more gender-neutral dress codes. This means that men and women can wear similar styles and colors without any restrictions based on their gender. So, don’t be surprised if you see women wearing suits or men wearing dresses at weddings in 2024.
Mixing Pattern and Texture
In 2024, we can expect to see more creative and bold choices when it comes to wedding guest attire. This means mixing different patterns and textures for a unique and eye-catching look. For women, this could mean pairing a floral dress with a patterned blazer, and for men, it could mean mixing a plaid jacket with a striped shirt. The key is to find a balance between patterns and ensure they complement each other.
What to Avoid
White
It goes without saying, but unless explicitly stated by the couple, white should be avoided at weddings. This color is traditionally reserved for the bride and wearing it as a guest is considered a major etiquette faux pas.
Jeans and T-shirts
While weddings may be becoming more casual, it’s still important to dress appropriately. This means avoiding jeans and t-shirts, as these are considered too casual for a wedding. Instead, opt for a dress, skirt, or tailored pants for women, and a suit or dress pants for men.
Anything Too Revealing
It may be tempting to show off your summer tan or your hard-earned muscles, but a wedding is not the place to do it. Avoid anything too revealing or too tight, as it can be seen as disrespectful to the couple and the occasion.
In Conclusion
As wedding traditions continue to evolve, so do the expectations for wedding guest attire. By 2024, we can expect to see wedding dress codes becoming more inclusive, sustainable, and creative. But no matter what the dress code may be, it’s important to always show respect for the couple and their special day by dressing appropriately. Avoid white, overly casual clothing, and anything too revealing, and you’ll be sure to make a good impression as a wedding guest in 2024.
