Dressing in a beautiful dress on the occasion of a wedding is necessary not only for the newlywed, but also for any representative of the fair sex, be it the mother of the bride or groom, an honorary witness, or simply a guest of the celebration. An evening look should be thoughtful and restrained in terms of decor. A pompous, pretentious outfit will look ridiculous and attract undue attention, distracting the eyes of ceremony guests from the newlyweds themselves. Experts say that evening dresses for a wedding should be feminine, elegant, and most importantly, appropriate and suitable for the specifics of the celebration. In addition, when looking for an outfit, it is important to take into account your body shape, seasonality, color scheme and location of the event, since a model that is appropriate for a beach party will look ridiculous at a Gatsby-style wedding. General trends in world fashion and rules for choosing an evening dress for a wedding will be discussed in the article.
General selection rules
Wedding and evening dresses are selected taking into account the type of figure, correctly combining it with shoes, accessories and other elements of the image. A successful style will help hide problem areas, the harmonious interweaving of details will make the image elegant and memorable. Which dresses are suitable for a certain figure:
- Apple. The type is distinguished by a prominent tummy, the waist is invisible, the width of the shoulders and hips is the same. The lower body is slender, so a mid-length outfit that shows off your legs is ideal. It is recommended to give preference to dresses with a neckline. The cut should follow the silhouette of the figure, but you should not choose stretchy or tight fabrics, they will only emphasize the roundness of the abdomen. To divert attention from the problem area, use dark inserts on the sides, play on the contrast of colors of the upper and lower parts, vertical patterns, and draperies. Lace, linen, and chiffon models are suitable for women with this type of figure. An excellent option is a sheath dress with open arms, made of a plain material with contrasting inserts, as well as a-line models with a flared hem.
- Pear. The shoulders and chest are narrow, the hips are full and wide, the waist is clearly visible. To even out the proportions of the body, it is recommended to give preference to a straight cut or fitted models with a slightly flared skirt, or a mermaid style. The top of the outfit should visually balance out narrow shoulders. The maximum effect is provided by collars, dropped shoulders (a flared mid-length skirt looks great with this option), flounces along the chest line, a bolero or a boa. You should avoid a low waist, patch pockets at hip level, a narrowed hem, and a dark top.
- Triangle. This is the same pear, only in reverse: the hips are narrow, the legs are slender, and the shoulders are wide. Dresses with flared skirts are suitable. Basque, pleats, pleats, bows and ruffles at the hem are appropriate. In this case, the shoulders need to be hidden; this can be done using a V-neck, asymmetrical neckline, American armhole, sweetheart neckline or bustier. Patch pockets, collars, falling sleeves and ruffles at the top of the outfit should be avoided.
- Rectangle. A figure without a clear waist - it is recommended to specifically “draw” it using a translucent insert or a contrasting transition. A-line and semi-fitting silhouettes are suitable. Dresses with a corset will highlight imperfections. Models with a low waistline, flounces, a yoke, frills on the hips, as well as a balloon style look good on this figure. The shoulders should be visually expanded with puffed sleeves, a collar, bright trim or shoulder pads.
- Hourglass. Wide chest and hips, narrow waist. This figure does not need correction. You can choose a model of any cut, including one that follows the curves of the body. The waist is further emphasized with a belt. You should avoid hoodie dresses; they will hide the grace of the lines.
When choosing accessories, the stylists' recommendations are as follows:
- You can complement the look with earrings, necklaces, bracelets, a handbag or clutch. But there should not be more than three accessories and decorations.
- Jewelry should be selected in one style direction.
- An outfit with long sleeves will be harmoniously decorated with beads or massive drop earrings.
- You should pair bracelets or watches with a bustier dress and a short-sleeved model.
Shoes must be high-heeled, regardless of style. If the outfit has a flared skirt, strappy shoes will look harmonious. The pleated hem is matched with sandals. The handbag can be in the form of a clutch, on a strap or chain. Bulk models are not suitable; you should opt for a medium or small sized accessory.
It is important to consider that miniature handbags emphasize the plumpness of a girl.
Wedding dresses with slit
A floor-length dress with a slit is the image of a sexy bride. It is more suitable for self-confident individuals.
In this case, you should not focus on a deep neckline or bright accessories. This dress will look great paired with high heels.
Color palette
The color of the outfit is also extremely important when choosing. An all-white evening dress cannot be worn to a wedding, since this color is intended exclusively for the bride’s outfit. Black is associated with mourning, so it is also not recommended for guests. As a last resort, by agreement with the bride, such evening dresses are acceptable for a wedding celebration if the event is planned for the evening. A popular option are combined models with black inserts.
In general, choosing clothes in dark colors, such as brown or blue, is not recommended for a wedding. Dresses made in pastel colors, beige, and silver are best suited for this event. Delicate shades of lavender, peach, and pink will help create a romantic look. Champagne-colored outfits with complex textured trim would be appropriate; they look expensive and luxurious.
A dress for a wedding celebration in a bright, rich color, including red, can be worn by a witness, because she must stand out from the crowd of guests. Bridesmaids can wear exactly the same outfits or clothes of the same color, but different cuts.
The shade of the dress is chosen in accordance with the female color type; the color of the accessories should not exactly match the outfit.
Basic recommendations apply to a classic wedding celebration. If the bride and groom have established a separate dress code or plan to celebrate the wedding in a certain style, you need to start from these conditions. If there is a party in the style of dudes, bright outfits can be worn by all representatives of the fair sex. When the celebration takes place in the Gothic style, the main colors will be “forbidden” black, dark blue, and red.
Rule for choosing colors for guests
Adviсe:
- You cannot choose white. This advantage is given to the bride
- Black color is quite gloomy for a wedding ceremony. A men's suit should be a couple of shades lighter. For a woman, a “little black dress”, complemented by some kind of accessory, is acceptable.
- “No” to leopard print.
- “Yes” - checkered, striped, color print.
- Bright, rich fabrics are always in the spotlight.
- Accessories: tinted, matching, with elements of “predatory” colors always add a “zest” to an outfit.
Length
The length of an evening dress for a wedding can be almost any, taking into account the fact that after the formal part there is usually a banquet, which is complemented by dancing and active competitions. The choice largely depends on the format of the wedding; in some cases, evening dresses with a train are also appropriate, but you should definitely avoid ultra-short dresses that look too revealing and provocative and can cause disapproval from guests and newlyweds.
The most advantageous options are mid-length cocktail dresses. Retro models with a fluffy knee-length skirt, as well as Gatsby-style outfits, are especially popular this season. Floor-length evening dresses are suitable for girls who want to appear slimmer. Long dresses with a high waistline especially transform the figure; they are suitable for ladies with short legs, relative to their height.
A Hollywood-style look looks glamorous and luxurious, and besides, wearing a long evening dress to a wedding will help you hide full calves, varicose veins and other imperfections in your appearance.
Short dresses above the knee are suitable for slender girls with beautiful legs. If you are short, you need a high heel. Models with a full skirt, as well as in baby-dollar style, look advantageous. Successful short models include sheath-type dresses, which add femininity to the image and visually make the figure slimmer.
Rule for choosing a style for guests
Since the solemnity of the moment presupposes an official part, the outfit cannot be in a sports style (unless this is provided for in the invitation).
A discreet, comfortable classic will be appropriate during competitions, photo shoots, and also on the dance floor.
For men, a classic two-three piece with a colorful shirt and a stylish tie will suit you.
If guests come in the status of a couple, this may be reflected in accessories, for example, a handbag-tie or a “butterfly” neckerchief.
For guests with children, we can recommend the “family look” :
- color,
- style,
- material,
- accent,
- style,
- print.
Material
The style of the look and how comfortable it will be to spend the whole day in it depend on the type of fabric and its texture. Popular options:
- Chiffon. Emphasizes the femininity of the guest, suitable for romantic girls (organza creates a similar effect). It absorbs moisture well and drapes well.
- Silk. It looks very expensive; it is used to create elegant dresses for women for weddings with flowing folds and tails. Thanks to good breathability, it cools the skin.
- Crepe satin and satin. They look solemn and noble, have a matte shine, and drape beautifully.
- Velvet. Beautiful, does not electrify, suitable for both young girls and older ladies.
- Brocade. It doesn’t wrinkle, looks festive, and keeps its shape perfectly.
Interesting combinations of different materials, allowing you to create a complex image. These can be fabrics of the same or different density, the same shade or different in saturation and range of colors. In any case, the combination should be harmonious.
Atlas
Velvet
Brocade
Combined
Crepe satin
Silk
Chiffon
Current colors
No matter how fashion changes, there will always be admirers of traditional views. Aggressive, defiant red, solemn, sexy black and delicate, romantic white will always be in trend.
Reds
The focus is on the extraordinary bright appearance. With small details in less eye-catching tones it will suit any celebration.
Black
The severity and mystery of a black outfit will be especially appreciated if the outfit is paired with stiletto heels, thin tights and an extravagant bag.
White
Refinement and chastity. If you want to wear something light, we recommend a milky or champagne shade.
Popular styles
The choice is made taking into account age, build and the role that the beautiful lady will play at the wedding. An evening dress for a friends wedding suggests more freedom than the outfit of the mothers of the newlyweds and the bridesmaid. But other guests should not forget about the features of the figure.
For mothers of newlyweds
The appearance of the parents of the bride and groom requires special attention. Recommended options:
- Tight-fitting dress with a slight neckline. It should be tailored to your figure, but tight-fitting models are not suitable, as they will highlight flaws in your appearance.
- In Greek style. It is considered more suitable for young girls, but even at the age of “over 40” there is absolutely no need to abandon it. The style will help hide extra pounds on the waist and hips and visually make you taller.
- A-silhouette. It looks feminine and elegant, suitable for women of any size.
- Straight dress. Will not focus attention on the waistline. A round neckline will follow the curve of the jewelry on your neck. You can add a festive touch with a chiffon or lace cape.
- Case. It looks a little businesslike, but the model is quite appropriate. Festive sheath dresses are made of textured fabrics with inserts of lace, velvet, and decorated with rhinestones.
Mature women are not recommended to wear dresses with a short hem; its length should be at or below the knee. You cannot skimp on a dress: it must be made of high-quality fabrics and fit your figure; preference should be given to a laconic cut without unnecessary details.
For pregnant
Evening dresses for pregnant women are full-fledged outfits, and not baggy clothes that spoil the image more than decorate it. Stylists advise expectant mothers to choose several styles that will not only highlight the beauty of their changed figure, but will also delight them with convenience:
- The floor-length model with a high waistline or in the Greek style is one of the most popular. All attention is directed to the richly decorated bodice, while the belly is hidden by numerous folds of flowing fabric.
- Straight with a low waistline - relevant for a short period of pregnancy. At the waist, the dress is loose enough so as not to restrict movement and not draw attention to an interesting position.
- The hoodie looks great despite its simple cut. Models of evening dresses for weddings made of silk or chiffon with a floral print are best suited.
Evening dresses for girls for weddings in a classic style, which are dresses with a tight-fitting top, will have to be excluded.
For obese women
Curvy ladies should take into account the features of their figure, because the style you like can emphasize flaws. Photos of evening dresses for a wedding will help you decide on the cut. General selection rules:
- Outfits made from stretch fabrics are absolutely not suitable for overweight girls and women - they emphasize every fold and create flaws even where there were none. You should not wear such a dress if you do not want to make people laugh behind your back.
- Silk and chiffon models that fit the cut are ideal for those who are plump. Imperfections in appearance will not be noticeable behind the flowing folds.
- Light shades, as well as too bright ones, increase volume, so preference should be given to darker, muted tones. Stylists recommend dresses in purple, red, green and blue colors.
- The large print also emphasizes fullness. The best option is a small floral pattern or a plain dress with dark inserts on the sides.
- If all the extra pounds have accumulated in the lower part of the body, you should divert attention from it with the help of a deep neckline or bright trim on the chest.
- It is recommended to hide the fullness of the arms under wide sleeves made of translucent fabric, which look especially advantageous on stately ladies.
If you are overweight, it is important to choose the right jewelry – not massive, but not too fragile. Shoes must have high, stable heels. A thin stiletto heel that will emphasize a heavy figure is taboo.
For the bridesmaid
The witness is almost always next to the newlywed and is equally captured by the camera lens. An evening dress for a bridesmaid should highlight all the advantages of her figure. The following styles are suitable:
- Maxi with bustier is a classic evening dress. Stylists advise choosing an outfit in a pastel color, which will emphasize the tenderness and romance of the image.
- With a strap on one shoulder - recommended for those with a wide top. You can attach a fabric flower or bow to this element. With this cut of the top, a fluffy hem and a wide belt at the waist look great.
- With an American armhole - the advantage of this model is a chaste look at the front and an open back at the back. The outfit looks elegant both in a tight-fitting version and with a full skirt. Looks sexy, but not vulgar.
A transformable dress is the best choice: at the registry office it’s a full-fledged evening outfit, and in the evening it’s a comfortable cocktail dress.
What style of dress should a girl guest choose for her friend’s wedding?
It’s better to start with what kind of dress you can wear to a friend’s wedding in principle.
The first thing you should consider when choosing a dress is the location and general theme of the celebration. For off-site registration in nature, it is better to choose light, comfortable clothing, for example, a sundress.
Photo of a sundress for a wedding
For a more formal, formal event, evening dresses for ladies and tuxedos for men are required. Usually the invitation indicates the dress code for the future celebration. A long dress will not be entirely appropriate for a daytime banquet; a cocktail mini will not be suitable for a sophisticated evening. A compromise could be an outfit with an asymmetrical hem – long at the back, short at the front. This option is very relevant for evening fashion. For a wedding, you need to choose a modest, closed dress or cover your open shoulders with a scarf or bolero.
When the wedding is themed, for example, in a retro style or in the spirit of a mad tea party at the Hatter from Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, then choosing an outfit is even easier. It is not necessary to select a suit entirely in the spirit of the occasion. You can complement your look with themed accessories and matching makeup.
For skinny people, it’s better not to wear a too-tight style ; a fitted dress with a loose skirt would be the best option.
Dress for skinny girls for a wedding
Evening dresses for plump girls should also not be tight or tight - this is unlikely to make them thinner. It is better to choose a straight cut over other styles, focusing on the chest and shoulders, or wear a flowing dress made of light fabric.
Dress for plus size girls for a wedding
Don't forget about your body type.
- For an apple , dresses with an emphasis on the shoulders and legs are suitable. The ideal option is a cocktail dress with pleats.
Photos of elegant wedding clothes for female guests
- For a girl with a rectangular body type, models with an asymmetrical neckline or side flounce will suit her. High-waisted Greek styles are also suitable.
- For a triangular figure, it is better to choose sheath dresses with a mermaid hem. The hourglass figure looks great in any style of dress.
- For a pear-shaped body, it is better to focus on the shoulders - a loose-fitting dress with a tight-fitting strapless bodice.
The time of year for which the wedding ceremony is scheduled also matters.
In winter or autumn, it is better to choose thick fabrics with a fur cape that can be removed indoors; in warm weather, lighter, flowing materials, for example, chiffon, silk, tulle.
The guest is not forbidden to wear a women's trouser suit with a jacket. It is perfect for a semi-formal celebration. You can also wear a skirt with a fitted blouse or top - an option for a summer ceremony. Or choose an evening jumpsuit for a wedding. The latter, by the way, fits into almost any dress code and has many color options.
Evening jumpsuit for a wedding
It is better to choose a dress for a pregnant guest in a comfortable style that does not tighten the body, especially in the abdomen and chest area. If a girl is at an advanced age, then there is no point in hiding a rounded belly under multi-layered skirts and draperies. A good option would be a dress in the empire style or with a neckline framed by floral decoration. You can choose a high-waisted model with two pleats running from the waistband to the bottom - this will remove unnecessary attention from the pregnant woman’s belly. In addition, this variation will emphasize enlarged breasts.
Wedding dress for pregnant guest
If you want something special or there is nothing suitable in the stores, you can always sew your own dress for your friend’s wedding. This guarantees a unique look, and such a dress will fit your figure exactly. You can ask for an evening outfit to be made to order in the studio . But it’s better to apply in advance so that the outfit can be made in time for the special date. Or, if a woman is a good sewer herself, then it won’t be difficult to sew a dress with her own hands for a wedding as a guest. The main thing is to choose the right style for yourself and get to work in advance.
Choosing a dress depending on the time of year
Even though weddings peak in the summer, they are held throughout the year. In summer, the choice of dresses is widest: from classic evening styles to elegant sundresses with straps. Options with a boat neckline, sweetheart or square armhole are especially popular, as they do not exclude the presence of jewelry on the neck. A bustier or open back dress will look sexy. If you are planning a wedding, you need to think about how to cover your shoulders - it could be a bolero, a lace cape or a light chiffon shawl.
In spring or autumn, when it rains frequently or the snow has not yet melted completely, floor-length outfits, and especially with a train, are inappropriate. At this time of year, a knee-length dress for a wedding guest is ideal. In winter, you need to abandon light and flowy fabrics, as well as open cuts - the choice should be made in favor of dresses made of dense material, preferably with a mixture of wool, and always with sleeves. A fur cape will also come in handy.
When choosing an evening dress, you need to take into account the convenience and practicality of the outfit, because weddings are celebrated for several hours, and a significant part of the time will have to be spent on your feet, actively participating in competitions and dances. It’s good that there is a huge assortment of ready-made models, among which choosing the right option for a woman of any size and age will not be difficult. And if you wish, you can always order an original dress to be sewn in the studio, which will allow you to get an exclusive outfit.
Review of the best models
The styles of dresses for a wedding should be studied in advance in the photo. This will make choosing the right option much easier. For example, the “gatsby” option deserves attention. The cut in this case is straight and the waist is slightly narrowed. The neckline is quite deep and the back is open. Often the outfit is decorated with embroidery, fringe, stones or feathers. Such models allow you to visually narrow your waist and make your silhouette more graceful.
The classic option is the case. This dress is suitable for the bride and guests. To make your outfit look festive, preference should be given to silk or satin fabrics. You can find long dresses and short ones on sale. Young ladies can choose from models of any length. For older women, it is best to wear a midi.
baby-doll dresses deserve special attention . Such models are perfect for young ladies. The length in this case can also be midi or mini. A wedding is a great reason to choose the first option. With its help, the image turns out to be sophisticated and quite gentle. Such models can be chosen by girls going to their sister’s celebration.
fish model is ideal for this event. The silhouette in this case is tight-fitting, flared at the bottom. With the help of such clothes, a sophisticated, graceful image is created. The main thing is that movement in this robe is not constrained.
Photo
How to choose a dress for a wedding?
The first thing you should pay attention to is the season when the future wedding is expected. Depending on whether the wedding will take place in winter or summer, the choice of festive attire is adjusted.
In the warm season, it is better to give preference to light, airy fabrics with bright floral prints or lace.
White color is a taboo for any wedding dress, except the bride's dress
Otherwise, it is better to choose warm, light shades of beige, yellow, green and pink. It is better to avoid dark and too thick fabrics - at a summer wedding it will look somewhat strange and unnatural. Also, do not expose yourself too much - provocative cutouts or slits on the hem will be out of place at a wedding.
For a winter wedding, it is better to choose a dress made of thicker fabric, but you should not choose a color that is too dark.
Long dress for guests for a winter wedding
Cocktail dress for wedding guests
You can take a rich palette of green, blue and purple shades; a range of pink and red will also be quite appropriate. The color of the skirt may differ from the color of the bodice : it may be a tone darker or a completely different color.
It is not necessary to choose a pompous, too pretentious attire; you can opt for a cheerful cocktail dress, especially if the wedding will take place during the day. A good option for summer is a cocktail mini dress with a long, translucent train-hem.
If the room is cool, you can take with you an elegant fur bolero or a cape over your shoulders.
