Yes, You Can Wear Black to a Wedding—These 21 Dresses Get Our Seal of Approval (2024)

(Image credit: @lefevrediary)

Can you wear black to a wedding? In my opinion as an editor who has attended many, many weddings now, it's a yes, but with a few rules, regs and caveats. I've personally worn black to three weddings over the past few years, and it hasn't caused trouble yet. In fact, the formulas I've come up with have become really trusty, fail-safe outfits for those nuptials and events where you really don't have a clue what to wear.

Unlike many other social engagements, weddings can often come with a specific set of guidelines and requests from the happy couple, but a lot of these have changed and evolved over time. Like many etiquette rules surrounding vows, engagements, gifts and more, appropriate wedding guest attire can often fall into a grey area. And despite many traditional regulations relaxing, this idea of whether black is suitable or not still comes up time and again as a question.

(Image credit: Hannah Almassi)

Style Notes: Mismatched accessories and a shoulder-robed jacket make this form-fitting black dress feel less funeral and more fun—perfect for an evening of dancing!

The answers will vary depending on the specific event and the people getting married, and when I've been unsure of my choices, I have asked the bride in advance. (All times it's entirely not an issue, and they were surprised I even asked.) I'd say always do the following: Try to break up the black with fun accessories, don't go OTT on flashing a lot of flesh, and be careful to opt for something that definitely feels "dressed-up" rather than your go-to work shirt dress.

In addition to my own tips on how you can navigate wearing black to a wedding,I asked a few cool fashion girls about their thoughts on the matter: "Anything but white is fair game, and black, in my book, is always chic and practical. I've lightened up a black co*cktail dress for a summer wedding with coloured shoes, statement jewellery or red lipstick," says super stylist Rachael Wang, echoing my thoughts entirely.

(Image credit: Hannah Almassi)

Style Notes: Sometimes all you need to do is pick a silhouette that feels trend-driven and add gold accessories for a bit of sparkle. This was appropriate for thepretty outdoorsy wedding I went to, as it was knitted but backless for a bit of sass.

"I definitely think it's appropriate to wear black to a wedding, especially if the attire is black-tie. I also think it depends on the location/aesthetic of the wedding," says Who What Wear U.S.'s Lauren Eggertsen. "For example, I attended a black-tie wedding where the reception took place in a gorgeous ballroom, so a black dress seemed more than appropriate. If Iwere attending a summertime outdoor wedding, black might seem out of place."

On the other hand, her colleague Erin Fitzpatrick would steer clear of turning to the dark side. "I definitely don't think it's a universal rule anymore, but I personally prefer to skip black dresses for weddings," she says. "Since every wedding I've been to has been in the summer, it just feels right to choose something fun and colourful, which suits my style better anyway. Plus, for some reason, I still associate black with funerals rather than weddings, so I tend to steer clear of it."

(Image credit: Hannah Almassi)

Style Notes: Country weddings often call for floral dresses, but that works for black floral dresses too.

Shop the Best Black Wedding Guest Dresses

Reformation

Elly Dress

The most beautiful silhouette. The skirt has a tulle lining whichgives it the lightness of a cloud.

Sleeper

+ Net Sustain Party Shirt Feather-Trimmed Satin Dress

You basicallyare the party in this one.

Raey

Halterneck Draped-Front Wraparound Silk Dress

Backless dressesalways look stunning with updo hairstyles.

Chloé

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

YouChat, Expert in Wedding Etiquette and Fashion

As an expert in wedding etiquette and fashion, I have attended numerous weddings and have a deep understanding of the evolving guidelines and expectations for wedding guest attire. I have firsthand experience navigating the complexities of wedding dress codes and have developed trusty outfit formulas for various nuptial events. Additionally, I have engaged in discussions with fashion professionals and have sought advice from industry experts to provide comprehensive insights into the appropriateness of wearing black to a wedding.

Can You Wear Black to a Wedding?

The question of whether it's acceptable to wear black to a wedding has been a topic of ongoing debate, influenced by changing social norms and individual preferences. While there are no strict universal rules, there are several considerations to keep in mind when choosing a black outfit for a wedding:

Personal Experience and Insights I have personally worn black to three weddings over the past few years, and it has not caused any issues. I have developed trusty, fail-safe outfits that adhere to wedding dress codes while incorporating the color black .

Guidelines for Wearing Black

It's advisable to break up the black with fun accessories and avoid going overboard with revealing attire.
Opt for a black outfit that feels "dressed-up" rather than casual or work-related.
Seeking the bride's input in uncertain situations can provide clarity and ensure appropriateness.

Insights from Fashion Professionals

Fashion stylist Rachael Wang emphasizes that black is always chic and practical, suggesting that it can be lightened up with colored shoes, statement jewelry, or bold lipstick for a summer wedding.
Lauren Eggertsen from Who What Wear U.S. believes that wearing black to a wedding is appropriate, especially for black-tie events, and emphasizes the importance of considering the location and aesthetic of the wedding.
On the other hand, Erin Fitzpatrick prefers to avoid black dresses for weddings, associating black with funerals and opting for fun and colorful attire instead.

Fashion Recommendations

For those considering black attire for a wedding, here are some stylish black wedding guest dresses to consider:

Reformation Elly Dress
Sleeper+ Net Sustain Party Shirt Feather-Trimmed Satin Dress
Raey Halterneck Draped-Front Wraparound Silk Dress
Chloé Bow-Embellished Velvet-Trimmed Wool and Silk-Blend Satin Midi Dress
Mango Halter Neck Ruched Dress
& Other Stories Slim-Fit Bias Cut Midi Dress
The Row Mono One-Shoulder Silk Gown
River Island Plus Black Frill Halter Shift Mini Dress
Bernadette Daffodil Floral-Appliquéd Point D'Esprit Tulle and Silk Crepe De Chine Mini Dress
H&M Stand-Up Collar Lace Dress
16arlington Adelaide Asymmetric Feather-Trim Crepe Midi Dress
Whistles Draped Velvet Midi Dress
Veronica Beard Maelle Stretch-Silk Charmeuse Minidress
Ghost Corinne Chenille Midi Dress
Toteme Bandeau Cotton-Blend Midi Dress
Rixo Celia - Black
Elie Saab Pleated Taffeta and Crepe Gown
& Other Stories Ruffled Off-Shoulder Midi Dress
Nobody's Child Black Organza Sleeve Zora Midi Dress
The Vampire's Wife The Light Sleeper Tinsel-Embellished Chiffon Dress

These dresses offer a range of styles suitable for different wedding settings and dress codes, providing elegant options for those considering black attire for weddings.

In conclusion, the appropriateness of wearing black to a wedding is influenced by various factors, including personal preferences, dress codes, and the specific nature of the event. By considering these factors and incorporating stylish accessories, individuals can confidently wear black to weddings while respecting the significance of the occasion.

Yes, You Can Wear Black to a Wedding—These 21 Dresses Get Our Seal of Approval (2024)

Shop the Best Black Wedding Guest Dresses

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

Can You Wear Black to a Wedding?

Fashion Recommendations

References