Can You Wear Black to a Wedding? (2024)

If you’re attending a wedding in the near future, picking out your outfit for the occasion can be a difficult, sometimes stressful, decision to make. Between finding a getup that’s comfortable and flattering, adhering to the designated dress code, and following the main etiquette rules surrounding wedding guest fashion, there are so many variables to keep in mind when shopping for your loved one's big day. That's why a black dress is almost always a go-to for individuals when dressing for their friend or family member’s nuptials—though, many people question whether this hue is appropriate for such an occasion.

According to wedding etiquette expert Elaine Swann, decades ago, wearing black to a wedding was considered a fashion faux pas since the color is often worn at funerals and, therefore, associated with mourning. Since nuptials are celebratory occasions, the dark hue was labeled off-limits for attendees in the past. However, in today's modern-day age, wearing black to a wedding is completely acceptable, and in many cases, it’s even encouraged.

“Black is often considered the most formal, polished, and flattering color,” explains wedding expert Ashley Smith. “Black also hides curves or things you might not want to show with ease, such as a cast or recent surgery.” The dark tone is sophisticated, chic, and versatile, making it a go-to choice across many aesthetics, venues, and seasons. Additionally, since black is a neutral hue, it offers a lot of flexibility regarding styling—you have the leeway to pair the deep shade with brightly-colored accessories or stick to an all-black ensemble.

Now that you're aware of the etiquette surrounding black wedding day attire, we asked Swann, Smith, and bridal designers Jess Kaye and Rosie Williams, to share what guests should consider and keep in mind when sporting this classic hue. Read on for more.

What to Consider When Deciding If You Should Wear Black to a Wedding

Although the color black is an etiquette-approved choice for wedding guests, there are some instances in which wearing this hue is more advisable than others. Here are some of the factors to keep in mind when making your decision.

The Location

Wearing black to a wedding largely depends on the location. For instance, in the Northeast, such as New York City or Boston, black evening gowns are very common. However, in the South, you’ll find attendees sporting brighter colors. For destination weddings, black wedding guest attire is suitable for European cities like London or Paris, but punchy shades fare better at tropical islands or beach resorts, such as in the Bahamas or Tulum.

The Venue

The venue itself will also shape your decision. If you’re attending a wedding at a modern or minimalist spot, such as a city rooftop, black will suit the setting. The color also fares well with swanky sites, such as a hotel ballroom or historic museum. On the other hand, garden fêtes necessitate pastels or vibrant tones, whereas barn or vineyard weddings lend themselves to jewel-tone hues.

The Dress Code

Black is usually best suited for formal celebrations, as the color is "very conservative and very polished-looking,” Smith shares. Couples usually specify the guest code at the bottom of their invitations and on their wedding website, so if you’ve been invited to a formal affair, black is a resounding “yes.”

That being said, black can still work for more casual attire guidelines, but make sure to assess the other coexisting conditions first. However, for festive or tropical weddings, you might be better off sticking to more dazzling, striking shades, whether it’s hot pink or cheery yellow. And if the couple hasn’t outlined a dress code, Swann says the wording and style of the invitation will hint at whether or not it’s appropriate.

The Season

The color black isn’t limited to a certain time of the year, but it usually makes more sense to sport the shade at a fall or winter wedding since it matches the dark, moody weather. Spring and summer nuptials often see increased temperatures, blooming flora and fauna, blue skies, and sunshine, so dressing in a lighter color that complements the season is preferable for many.

When to Avoid Wearing Black to a Wedding

Wearing black attire is generally appropriate for any wedding, but the three below instances make the hue a no-go.

There’s a Color-Specific Dress Code

Pay close attention to the invitation because, sometimes, the couple will specify a color-specific dress code, such as all-white or all-blue. It goes without saying that in those cases, black will not be a remote possibility. Williams and Kaye also note that black is out of the question if you’re instructed to wear a certain print, such as florals.

The Bridal Party Is Wearing Black

Wearing the same color as the bridal party is a fashion faux pas that you don’t want to make. So, if the bridesmaids are wearing black, you’ll want to overlook this hue as a potential option for your outfit. Before the big day, try to get some intel about the shades the wedding party will be wearing; Swann suggests looking to the invitation for information. If the card is decorated with a lot of black designs, disregarding the shade is a safe bet.

It Disrespects the Couple’s Heritages

If you’ve been invited to a wedding that will include Indian or Chinese cultural traditions, wearing black is disrespectful. In these cultures, the color represents mourning, so it stands in direct opposition to the purpose of a wedding. Instead, opt for more colorful outfits.

Tips for Choosing Your Black Wedding Guest Look

After assessing the above factors, if it looks like black is a suitable color for the wedding you’re attending, there are some additional tips you’ll want to follow when shopping for your garment.

Select the Right Fabric

The right fabric for your black wedding guest attire is one that aligns with the occasion and makes you look and feel comfortable and confident. A black dress in silk or satin has a sumptuous look that’s perfect for formal ballroom or city soirées, per Kaye and Williams, and the fluidity and breathability of these materials also make them an apt possibility for warmer-weather, laid-back affairs. Since black absorbs heat, however, a light fabric like linen is the best suggestion for hot, humid climates and seasons. Smith also notes that latex or pleather are some of the fabrics you’ll want to steer clear of.

Look for Appropriate Cuts and Lengths

The last thing you want to do is upstage the bride, so Swann recommends that you avoid black-hued looks that are especially revealing, such as extremely low-cut necklines, unnecessarily tight silhouettes, and excessively short hemlines. The length that you choose will also depend on the dress code. For black-tie affairs, you’ll want to select a black gown that hits the floor, but a tea-length or knee-length dress is appropriate for a more informal dress code like co*cktail, semi-formal, or casual.

Accessorize Wisely

Since black is a blank canvas, sporting this shade gives you the autonomy to accessorize with fun, playful pieces. Add a pop of color to your attire by carrying a fuschia handbag, wearing red heels, or donning acqua statement earrings, for example. For a more subdued look, you can never go wrong with metallic adornments, such as a gold bracelet or a silver necklace. As long as it suits your personal style, the options are endless here.