Everyone knows the wedding party really starts when the evening guests arrive, but what to wear as an evening guest at wedding? It’s safe to say the evening wedding dress code is glam and if the daytime is black tie, the wedding reception is too.
It’s a celebration, this is your cue to dress UP.
Day guests have to consider that they will be in the same outfit from morning until night, unless they are particularly “extra” and bring an outfit change (you know who you are, the Beyonce of wedding guests!) and they have to be dressed suitably for the formalities. You, the evening wedding guest, have no such worries. You can rock up, party ready, no hat required.
There are no rules around evening wedding attire for guests, unless there is a dress code decreed on the invitation, so you can be as creative as you wish – go for a full length or mini dress, elegant separates or a jumpsuit.
The weather and location will play into your outfit planning. Again, luckily for you summer evening wedding guests, you have the luxury of going out just as the weather is cooling down, so no need to plan your look around staying cool during outdoor drinks receptions, you just need an outfit to make an entrance and dance all night in.
Black can look stunning for an evening wedding reception if minimal is the style you are going for. Look for asymmetric, one shoulder and Bardot-style cocktail dresses if sparkles and shimmer are your style, then evening receptions are your catwalk. Sequins and party lights go together like salt and pepper, go full length and fabulous or shorty and flirty; mini dresses are a classic party piece and they look elegant worn with a slightly lower heel, making them perfect wedding guest shoes for dancing in.
If you are still stuck for ideas for the perfect evening wedding guest attire and want an alternative to a dress but with the same wow factor look no further than a jumpsuit. Take a little 70s styling inspiration with wide leg styles in jewel colours, halter necks that expose a bit of shoulder are always a hit but if you need to wear a regular bra then look for draped neck styles that have the same drama but don’t expose your straps. Wear with a chunky block heel or the brave might add a platform for extra leg lengthening.
With 20 years experience as both a Fashion Buyer and Stylist, Joanne Watkinson has a wealth of knowledge about everyday style and event dressing. We’ve asked her to share her tips and tricks on how to pick the perfect dress or outfit and how to perfect your look for special occasions.
