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Wedding guest dresses: What to wear (and what to avoid)
Elegance is not about standing out. It’s about knowing how to show up.
If you’ve been invited to a wedding, the first thing you should understand is that the day is not about you. That also applies to your outfit. Your look should respect the couple, follow the wedding’s dress code, and reflect your good taste—without stealing attention.
At Wink, we’ve organized hundreds of weddings across Colombia and the United States, and we’ve seen it all—including fashion choices that could have been avoided. So today, we’re sharing our best style tips for wedding guests to help you look flawless and feel comfortable at every type of celebration.
Colors you should avoid as a wedding guest
1. White
Never. Under any circumstances. White belongs solely to the bride. Even if your dress is short, simple, or has small details—it’s still seen as disrespectful. White is a firm no.
2. Ivory, cream, pearl, or beige
These colors are dangerously close to white and often blend in photos. Avoid them, especially in long dresses or shiny fabrics.
3. Bright red
While elegant, red can be attention-grabbing. In some cultures, it’s even interpreted as trying to overshadow the bride. If you love red, opt for deeper tones like burgundy or wine.
The best colors to wear to a wedding
Pastel tones like soft blue, blush pink, or mint green are always a good choice. They’re elegant, delicate, and perfect for daytime weddings.
Jewel tones such as emerald green, sapphire blue, or deep purple add sophistication, especially for evening or indoor weddings.
Earthy tones like terracotta, mustard, or olive are ideal for boho or countryside weddings in venues like Arde la Selva.
Black, when styled right, is timeless. Just be sure the event is formal and at night before wearing it.
Styles that work (and styles that don’t)
Yes to:
Midi dresses, long flowy gowns, or lightweight fabrics in soft tones or floral prints.
Elegant jumpsuits or matching sets with refined accessories.
Comfortable shoes, especially for garden or outdoor weddings.
No to:
Dresses with excessive transparency, very deep necklines, or that are too short.
Over-the-top sequins or glitter—save those for New Year’s Eve.
Sky-high heels if the wedding is on grass or uneven terrain.
What if there’s no dress code on the invitation?
If the invitation doesn’t specify a dress code, consider the following clues:
Afternoon or outdoor weddings: Light tones, breathable fabrics, and natural accessories.
Evening events or weddings in venues like Le Pinot or Palau: Go for long dresses, deeper colors, metallic touches, or elegant prints.
Still unsure? Reach out to the host or check the venue’s social media to understand the event’s vibe.
Dress codes by venue type
At Wink, we work with exclusive venues that inspire specific styles. Here’s how to adapt your look to some of our favorite spaces:
Le Pinot: Elegant and architectural. Opt for sleek dresses in solid tones with sophisticated jewelry.
Voilá Eventos: Mediterranean and outdoorsy. Think flowy silhouettes and soft color palettes.
Casa Cartagena: Rustic colonial charm. Go for floral prints, romantic cuts, or vintage accessories.
Eterna Casa Boutique: Private and luxurious. Think effortless glamor—satins, minimalist heels, and refined details.
Common wedding guest dress mistakes
Wearing something more eye-catching than the bride or bridesmaids.
Choosing style over comfort and regretting it after an hour.
Ignoring the venue’s terrain—heels and grass are not friends.
Forgetting a shawl or jacket for outdoor night weddings.
Dressing too casually or over-accessorizing.
Remember: the best wedding guest dresses combine comfort, style, and respect for the event.
Why does it matter so much?
A well-dressed guest contributes to the harmony of the entire celebration. You help elevate the photos, maintain the event’s aesthetic, and avoid awkward moments. Your look can either blend in beautifully—or disrupt the visual balance the couple worked so hard to create.
At Wink, we help couples design thoughtful, elegant weddings where every element matters—even the outfits of their guests. If you’ve been invited to a wedding we’re producing—thank you for being part of this special moment. Now, you know exactly how to show up with grace and style.
Planning your wedding or attending one?
Whether you’re a guest looking for inspiration or part of a couple organizing your big day, we’ve got you covered. Explore our services and discover how we design unforgettable weddings in Medellín, Bogotá, the Caribbean, and even cities across the U.S.
Discover our wedding planning services: https://winkeventos.com/organizacion-de-bodas/
Browse our venues in Medellín: https://winkeventos.com/lugares-para-bodas/bodas-en-medellin/
Explore our full range of services: https://winkeventos.com/servicios/
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