Sustainable knitwear from The Knotty Ones — now 20% off. Explore Handmade Styles
Sustainable knitwear from The Knotty Ones — now 20% off. Explore Handmade Styles
The road to saying "I do" is paved with parties! There's so much to celebrate when it comes to getting married, but it also raises the question of what to wear to every special event. There's no right way to tie the knot and no wrong way to get dressed for it, but we've put together a guide with outfits for every bridal occasion for a little inspiration.
First of all, congratulations! It's your first big moment to step out as a married couple to be amongst your nearest and dearest. Perhaps this initial bash comes as a surprise from your friends who had been hiding in the bushes—in which case, you can feel great in whatever you're already wearing! If the party has been pre-planned, though, you've got options. The traditional theme from here on out is going to be all-white everything, but don't feel married to going that route. Consider your venue, vibe, and season. Most importantly, wear what makes you feel comfortable and centers you at the celebration.
The second piece of advice you'll see us repeat here is to wear what you want—it's your day. Typically, your maid of honor hosts the bridal shower, so check with them (or whoever is hosting) to get an idea of the theme, colors, and location. A laid-back evening at someone's home might call for cozier clothes, while a slinky summer dress could work for an evening soiree.
Put on your dancing shoes (or your wine-tasting flats or pajama-party slippers), it's time for the most "untraditional" event in the lead-up to the aisle. Bachelorette party themes can run the gamut, but it helps to get everyone on the same wardrobe page. My bachelorette, for example, was dubbed the "Matt Gala" (my husband's name is Matt), so we all wore looks fit for the first Monday in May. Another friend had a sexy Power Rangers party vibe, and I know plenty of bachelorettes who chose a Western theme. The point is, go wild. Just be sure to include an element (a silly veil, an all-white outfit...it doesn't have to be a penis hat, seriously) that makes you stand out as the bride-to-be.
The big day is just hours away! Consider your rehearsal dinner to be just that—a preview of your wedding. We suggest choosing a look that hints at your wedding dress. For example, if you're dress style is a long column with a train, consider a knee-length version for dinner. You can also look for something with a similar neckline or accents like beading or lace.
Amanda is a writer and travel professional with a decade of experience working in the fashion and lifestyle space. She serves as The Thread’s editorial consultant, helping to shape the stories we tell and the trends we cover. When she’s not at home in Seattle with her dog Hadrian, Amanda spends half the year traveling the world as a tour guide in places like Italy, Mexico, Cambodia, and beyond.
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