Can You Wear Red to a Wedding?

It’s one of the biggest wedding fashion faux pas: Wearing white when you’re not the bride. And while you likely know to avoid this neutral when selecting your ensemble, you may be unsure as to whether there are any other shades that are also off-limits. Depending on the celebration, there are some other tones that you may want to skip incorporating into your look. To start, make sure to pay attention to the invitation, which will dictate the dress code for the occasion. For example, the couple may ask you to wear an outfit that falls within a certain color palette or be hosting an all-white or all-black affair. However, if there isn’t a shade-specific dress code, you may still wonder whether there are any colors that aren’t okay to done, such as red. Can you wear red to a wedding?

When it comes to this type of celebration, the key thing to remember (in addition to skipping the white dress!) is to forgo wearing anything that could potentially upstage the couple. “Proper wedding guest etiquette has always been to avoid outshining or disrespecting a couple on their special day,” says Denise Lillie O’Neal, an event planner. As a result, you may want to skip that show-stopping gown that you’ve been saving for a special occasion.

When it comes to the color red, it can be confusing to know when to wear it to a loved one’s nuptials—and when to skip it. Read on for expert-approved advice on what to consider before selecting a red ensemble.

Can You Wear Red to a Wedding?

It depends. “There are some cultures where red isn’t appropriate, says Kennedy Bingham, a Los Angeles-based bridal stylist. “If you aren’t sure, it’s probably better to stay away from the color. In general, I personally like to stay away from any bright, distracting colors that might stand out in photos, unless the couple specifically asks for it.”

However, for most Western and secular weddings, red is an acceptable hue. “If the wedding or the couple is less traditional, or the dress code is a little more creative, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with wearing red as a wedding guest,” says Gabrielle Hurwitz, a bridal fashion stylist. “And while you might see rumors floating around the web that wearing red means you had a fling with the groom, ignore those. There are no hidden meanings to any colors of wedding guest attire.”

When to Avoid Wearing Red to a Wedding

In certain cultures, red is considered a lucky color, and, as a result, may be incorporated into the bride’s look or the wedding party’s ensemble. If you’re attending an Indian or Chinese celebration, you may want to forgo the shade. “Avoid wearing red because it could be part of the couples’ attire,” O’Neal says. And when it comes to Western weddings, if you really want to err on the side of caution, opt to skip the bright color, especially if the fête is in a traditional setting. “Tradition dictates guests avoid wearing red out of fear that it could take attention away from the happy couple,” Hurwitz says. “Visually, it’s quite bold. In a photo, your eye is immediately drawn to the color, especially if it’s next to neutrals like white, black, gray, or beige.”

How to Wear Red to a Wedding

If you do plan to wear red to a wedding, consider the shade. “For a fall or winter wedding, look for moodier shades of red like cranberry, crimson, ruby, or wine,” Hurwitz says. And if you’re attending a formal or black-tie celebration, think about opting for a rich texture, such as velvet or jacquard, to create a luxurious look. However, for a spring or summer fête, Hurwitz suggests wearing brighter shades, such as cherry, tomato, or an orange-red. Patterned ensembles that feature florals or abstract patterns are perfect for outdoor weddings. And make sure to prioritize lightweight fabrics, such as chiffon or organza, to ensure you’re comfortable and appropriate.

If you’re unsure about wearing bright red, Bingham suggests donning an adjacent tone, such as brown or orange. However, if you do opt for a red dress or suit, Hurwit says to select more muted accessories—and a subtle beauty look. “Avoid statement pieces that will draw even more attention to your outfit and keep your makeup more natural than over-the-top glam,” she adds. You’ll also want to think about the cut of your ensemble. “If you’re wearing a louder pattern or color, sometimes wearing a more modest silhouette can help tone it down,” Bingham says. “For example, a red dress with a high neck and loose fit will read much differently than a tight gown with a plunging neckline. When it comes to weddings, I always say better safe than sorry!”