Can You Wear Red to a Wedding?

Quick answer: Yes, you can wear red to a wedding, but with some important considerations. Once considered a very bold choice to wear to a wedding, red is increasingly a color accepted to be worn by guests. But let's be real-these decisions should be made considering the couple's preferences, cultural context, and the specific wedding setting.

In this article:

• The Tradition Behind Red at Weddings

The Tradition Behind Red at Weddings

In the west, red attire at a wedding has been considered a no-go for quite some time. These reasons are based on a number of beliefs such as attention-stealing. Red is a bright color with easiness into one's eyes. Some people think it would take attention away from the bride, who should be the center of attention that day.

Cultural association: In many cultures, red has been the classic color of brides. For example, at a Chinese wedding, red is considered a very lucky color and a sign of prosperity; thus, it is generally worn by the bride.

Symbolism: In the West, the color red has long had connotations of passion and sex, subjects that some people consider inappropriate at a wedding.

Contemporary views on Wearing Red to Weddings

Like many traditions, attitudes toward the wearing of red at weddings have evolved in the modern era. Here are some modern considerations:

Changing times: Very often these days, couples become so relaxed about wedding guest attire and are not too bothered with strict color codes; it's mainly about celebration.

Season and time: A deep burgundy might perfectly befit an autumn or winter wedding, for instance, while bright cherry red works during summer.

Wedding theme: Some weddings have a specific color theme in which red can be encouraged or even requested.

Cultural context: Understand the couple's cultural backgrounds. In some cultures, the color red is highly auspicious and invited in at weddings.

How to Wear Red to a Wedding?

If you want to wear red to a wedding, here are some tips to follow for doing so respectfully:

1. If you're ever in doubt, it's always better to ask the bride and groom. They can give you a starting point about what they might want and what they're aiming for in terms of the wedding.

2. Go by shades: Consider wearing subduer shades of red, such as maroon, burgundy, or coral. They will not pop out as dramatically.

3. Neutralize it with neutrals: Usually balance an all-over look by using red with neutral accessories.

4. Avoid going bridal style: Whatever be the color, red or any other, ensure that the style and color combo doesn't remind one of a typical bridal dress.

5. Take an Invitation Cue: Most often, one gets an idea from an invite as to how formal the occasion shall be and a good indication of colors that are being used.

When to Avoid Red?

While customs are softening, yet there come times when it isn't appropriate to wear red.

1. Traditional or conservative weddings: When a setting is called for that is more formal or traditional the colors can be safer.

2. In cases when one is a wedding party member: Usually in the case of a wedding party member, unless the couple have specifically requested it, wedding party members usually should avoid wearing red.

How to Wear Red to Seasonal Weddings?

So, if you've chosen red for a wedding, considering the season is the way to go for the perfect shade and style of it. Here goes a guide for wearing red at weddings in seasons:

Spring Weddings

For spring weddings, one can go lighter, brighter shades of red that reflect fresh seasons:

• Coral red: a perfect mix of red and pink combined, not too bright, nor blanched, just cheerful.
• Cherry blossom red: A soft pinkish-red hue, complemented well by florals.
• Poppy red : What a vibrant color; it speaks to the renewal of the season.

Fabric choices : For spring weddings, one wishes for light, airy fabrics. Chiffon and silk are nice fabric choices.

Flowering Splendor Maxi Dress, Hellomolly

 Long Sleeve Lace Dress, Bloomingdales

Summer Weddings

Summer calls for bright, energetic shades of red:

• Tomato red - hot, sultry, and warm; it is just like summer
• Watermelon red- fresh, fun red; it is apt for outdoor summer weddings
• Ruby red- a jewel, rich red that shows off best in the bright sunlight of summer.

Fabric options: Lighter fabrics that breathe, like cotton, linen, or lightweight silk, keep one cool in the heat of summer.

Plunge Neck Pleated A-Line Gown, Nordstorm

 Maxi Slip Dress with Frills, ASOS

Off-shoulder Tulle Maxi Dress, Ever-Pretty

Fall Weddings

Autumn weddings call for deeper, richer reds:

• Burgundy: A sophisticated red wine color that matches the falling leaves.
• Rust red: Earthy, warm, and full of the coziness of autumn.
• Cranberry red: A rich, deeper red with a tinge of purple that's festive and seasonal.

Fabric options: Heavier weights like velvet, satin, or wool blends fit cooler weather well.

Wine Halter Satin Maxi Dress, Lulus

V-Neck Long Sleeve Slit Dress, Ever-Pretty

Tulle Swiss Dot Tiered Bustier Midi Dress, Lulus

Winter Weddings

Winter weddings call for luxurious deep reds, including:

• Garnet red-A dark, jewel-toned red that's festive and elegant all at once.
• Cardinal red-A bold bright red standing beautifully against winter whites.
• Maroon-A deep, rich red with brown undertones, perfect for formal winter affairs.

Fabric choices: Rich, warm fabrics such as velvet, heavy silk, or brocade are ideal for winter weddings.

Beckinsale Velvet Wrap Dress, Balticborn

Half Sleeve Sequin Midi Dress, Ever-Pretty