Wedding Guest: The Ultimate Style Guide 2025

Ah, wedding season. That sparkling, champagne fueled stretch of the year when your inbox explodes with heartfelt invitations, love is literally everywhere, and your social calendar looks fuller than a New York City nightclub on a Saturday night. From sweet little garden ceremonies to over-the-top cathedral extravaganzas, every envelope promises joy, celebration and, if we’re being honest, a side of fashion panic.

Because here’s the million dollar question:

What on earth am I actually going to wear?

Take a breath. Maybe pour yourself a glass of something bubbly (or two). Step away from the closet chaos and the mounting outfit anxiety. Whether you’re the ultimate wedding MVP with a collection of RSVPs that could rival a celebrity’s or you’re nervously prepping for your very first formal invite, Le Marchand has got your back and your front, and your accessories with the ultimate, no-fail style guide.

We’re here to cut through the confusion of dress codes, decode the tricky language of colors, and help you nail that perfect look. One that’s elegant, totally appropriate, and yes fashion-forward with a capital F. Think of us as your personal stylist with a wink and a well-placed statement piece.

Because let’s be real, no one wants to be the guest who accidentally showed up in jeans for a black-tie affair, or worse, the one who matched the bride’s white. Our mission? To make sure you float through every wedding with confidence, grace, and an outfit that gets compliments, not side-eyes.

From mastering the art of the perfect fascinator to navigating the “destination wedding” dress code with ease, get ready to become the most effortlessly stylish and stress-free guest on the list.

For Her: Graceful, Glamorous, and Just the Right Amount of “Look at Me”

We know, we know, you want to slay, but you also don’t want to upstage the bride. It’s a tightrope walk between stylish and scene stealing, and we’re here to help you find your fashionable footing.

1. Venue & Dress Code: Decode Before You Dress

Think of the venue and dress code as your style GPS. They’ll steer you toward the right outfit and away from any fashion faux pas (like stilettos at a beach wedding don’t be that guest).

Black Tie / Formal Evening: Break out the drama (and we don’t mean family drama). Opt for floor-length gowns in rich fabrics like silk, satin, or crepe. Sequins? Yes. Slits? If tastefully done. And please, choose shoes that will let you dance the night away without hobbling like a bridesmaid after five-inch stilettos.
Garden Wedding: Think whimsy meets polish. Florals, pastels, and flowing midi dresses are your go-tos. Add a wide-brimmed hat and suddenly you're a character in My Fair Lady, but make it fashion. Breezy fabrics like chiffon and cotton keep it chic and cool.
Casual or Themed: If the invitation says “boho chic,” don’t turn up in a cocktail dress. Embrace the vibe! Floaty dresses, linen jumpsuits, funky patterns, this is where your inner style star can shine. Bonus points for anything that lets you breathe, eat canapés, and sit cross-legged during the speeches.

2. Colour Me Impressed: Hues That Woo

Weddings are a celebration your look should be too. Whether you're a pastel princess or a jewel-tone goddess, here's your palette cheat sheet:

Floral Prints: Classic for a reason. Romantic, fun, and perfect for daytime “I dos.”
Bold Colours: Emerald green, cobalt blue, ruby red. These are your show-stoppers. Just leave the white, ivory, or bridal-adjacent hues at home (seriously, unless you're marrying someone that day, step away from the white).
Metallics & Pastels: For an evening glow-up or a softer daytime affair, these tones shimmer without stealing thunder. Think golden goddess or lavender luxe.

3. Accessories: The Finishing Flourish

The difference between a good outfit and a great one? Accessories that sing (not scream).

Statement Jewelry: One bold piece, whether chandelier earrings or a sculptural necklace, can elevate your look instantly. Rule of thumb: pick your statement, then let the rest whisper.
Footwear Finesse: Fashion editors everywhere will tell you, never underestimate the power of a chic block heel. Bonus points for dancing longevity. Bring flats or sandals for the after-party (or the long trek to the car).
Clutch Game Strong: Tiny, sparkly, and just roomy enough for your lipstick, tissues, and one emergency snack. Wedding bags should be cute and compact, save the tote for brunch.

4. The Midi Dress: Your Secret Weapon

Is it formal? Is it casual? Does it work for both? Yes, yes, and yes. The midi is the Swiss Army knife of wedding guest fashion. Dress it up with stilettos and statement earrings or tone it down with sandals and a denim jacket.

Pro tip: invest in a good midi dress (or three) and rotate them across the season. With clever styling, no one will notice it’s had more wedding appearances than the officiant.

5. Layers: Function Meets Flair

Whether it’s a breezy spring evening or an unpredictable British summer, a layer is your best friend.

Blazers keep it crisp.
Shawls add romance.
Leather jackets say, “I’m here to toast love and maybe lead the conga line.”

For Him: Tailored, Tasteful, and Totally Dashing

Gentlemen, no you can’t wear that office suit again. And yes, people will notice. Dressing for a wedding is about clean lines, good tailoring, and not looking like you raided your brother’s prom closet.

1. Suit Up, But Know the Rules

Formal Weddings: Classic suits in navy, charcoal, or black are the safe zone. For extra flair, consider a velvet jacket or a subtle pinstripe. If the invite says black tie, tux it up. No shortcuts.
Semi-Formal / Smart Casual: Light-coloured suits, crisp dress shirts, and an optional tie will do the trick. Beach or outdoor? Lose the jacket, roll up your sleeves, and keep your shirt tucked. This isn’t a barbecue.
Themed Affairs: Vintage party? Bust out the waistcoat. Festival wedding? Bring on the florals. Know the theme, respect the theme.

2. Fit is Everything

We repeat: fit. is. everything.

Shoulders should sit flush.
Trouser hems shouldn’t puddle.
Jackets shouldn’t look like you borrowed them from your dad (unless your dad is Tom Ford).

Invest in tailoring. Even a high-street suit can look designer with the right fit.

3. Accessories Matter, Too

Ties: Go silk, go slim, go with colour. Or skip it entirely for casual weddings just don’t unbutton past two unless you're Fabio.
Pocket Squares & Watches: Simple, chic, and never overdone. Think understated elegance.
Shoes: Polish them. Leather oxfords, brogues, or sleek loafers are your best bet. Leave the chunky trainers for the honeymoon flight.

Wedding Guest Etiquette: Because Style Isn’t Just What You Wear

RSVP on time. Ghosting is for dating apps, not weddings.
Arrive early. Fashionably late is not a thing when vows are involved.
Don’t outshine the couple. No peacocking. This isn’t the Met Gala.
Respect photo policies. No Instagramming the bride before she’s posted herself.
Say cheers with style. Toast the love, sip the champagne, and try not to end up on the dance floor with a tie around your head (unless it’s that kind of wedding).

Final Thoughts: Confidence Is Your Couture

The best-dressed guests don’t just wear fabulous outfits they wear them with confidence. Whether you’re rocking a designer gown, a budget beauty, or something from Le Marchand’s curated edit (obviously), own it. Strut like you just caught the bouquet and the DJ’s playing your song.

Because darling, weddings are about love, laughter, and turning heads for all the right reasons.

So go forth, RSVP yes, and make fashion memories. Just don’t forget the gift. Or the tissues. Or the backup flats.

✨ Top Tip: Try it all on a few days before to avoid last-minute fashion stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I wear white to a wedding if I’m a guest?

Generally, it’s best to avoid white to respect the bride, who traditionally wears white. Opt for other colors to stand out stylishly without overshadowing the couple.

2. How formal should I get for a casual wedding?

Even casual weddings call for neat and polished outfits. Think smart casual—like a nice dress or tailored pants and a blouse for women, and dress pants with a button-up shirt for men.

3. What should I do if the dress code is unclear?

If in doubt, reach out to the couple or wedding planner for guidance. When all else fails, lean towards semi-formal and add or remove layers to fit the vibe.

4. Is it okay to re-wear an outfit for multiple weddings?

Absolutely! Just mix and match accessories and shoes to create a fresh look without splurging on a new outfit every time.

5. Should I bring a gift to the wedding or send it afterward?

Both options are acceptable. If you attend the wedding, bringing a gift is thoughtful. Sending it afterward also works if that’s more convenient for you.