Wearing white shoes to a wedding is generally acceptable, as long as they don’t overshadow the bride’s attire. Consider the dress code, wedding theme, and location when choosing footwear to ensure your choice complements the occasion.
So… you’ve been invited to a wedding… Congratulations! But now comes the hard part: what to wear? Fortunately… wedding guest attire is pretty relaxed these days… As long as you feel comfortable and look good (and are flattering to the bride!)… you’re probably wearing the right thing.
This is especially true when it comes to shoes — closed-toe shoes in a dark color… preferably black… are always appropriate… But should you actually wear white?
Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding?
White shoes are considered acceptable for wedding guests to wear… In fact… it can be a very fashionable shoe choice with the right dress.
White is a very common shoe color paired with pastel or floral dresses that are often worn to weddings in the spring and summer.
Don’t worry about offending the bride because wearing white shoes to a wedding does not fall into the same category as wearing a white dress or outfit to a wedding… As long as you are not wearing a white dress as a wedding guest… you are just fine.
| Factors | Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding? |
|---|---|
| Dress Code | If the wedding invitation specifies a dress code, it’s important to follow it. Some dress codes may prohibit wearing white shoes to a wedding. |
| Bride’s Attire | It’s important to avoid wearing white shoes if the bride is wearing a traditional white wedding dress. White shoes can be seen as too similar to the bride’s attire and may be considered disrespectful or distracting. |
| Time of Day | White shoes may be more appropriate for daytime weddings, while darker shoes may be more appropriate for evening weddings. |
| Location and Theme | The location and theme of the wedding can also play a role in determining whether white shoes are appropriate. For example, white shoes may be more appropriate for a beach or garden wedding, while darker shoes may be more appropriate for a formal ballroom wedding. |
| Personal Style | Ultimately, whether or not to wear white shoes to a wedding depends on personal style and the overall outfit. If white shoes complement the outfit and are appropriate for the occasion, they can be worn to a wedding. |
While wearing white shoes to a wedding can be appropriate in some cases, there are several factors to consider, such as the dress code, the bride’s attire, the time of day, the location and theme, and personal style.
It’s important to avoid wearing white shoes if the bride is wearing a traditional white wedding dress, as this can be seen as disrespectful or distracting. Additionally, the dress code and location of the wedding can also play a role in determining whether white shoes are appropriate.
Ultimately, the choice of footwear should complement the overall outfit and reflect the personal style, while being appropriate for the occasion.
Is It Rude to Wear White Shoes to a Wedding?
In general… you should avoid wearing white to a wedding… The most important factor is that the bride should be the center of attention and feel special; what you wear should not compete or attempt to upstage the bride.
White is reserved for the bride… and while a hint of white may not be a big deal… you need to avoid any outfits that are predominantly white unless the hosts specify otherwise.
If your outfit is brightly colored… then a splash of white on your shoes is probably not a big deal; just make sure that you don’t have a white centerpiece to your outfit.
If in doubt… it’s safer to avoid wearing any white to a wedding… Ultimately… it’s up to you to judge how much white is appropriate and how sensitive the bride could be to you wearing white.
If you’re wearing any shade of white… it’s best to avoid wearing shoes that also fall under the white category… This rule applies to all clothing for men… women… and children — so if you’ve got a dress code that allows for “white or off-white.” leave the ivory wedges at home.
Is It Appropriate to Wear White Heels to a Wedding?
You can wear white heels to a wedding… However… make sure you stay away from styles that may look like something a bride would wear.
One of the most well-known fashion rules is; ‘never wear white to a wedding.’ These days though… some of the more traditional wedding policies are being less strictly adhered to.
In saying this… there will still be some that will tell you to avoid white at all costs… If you are in any doubt about wearing white heels to a wedding… you can always check with the bride.
Although wearing white shoes to a wedding may be appropriate… there are some things to avoid so that you don’t infringe on the bride’s special day… It is unfitting for any guest to stand out more than the bride – so be wary of wearing anything with too much bling or vibrant colors when attending a wedding.
Can Male Guests Wear White to a Wedding?
Male guests can… and commonly do… wear white to weddings… White dress shirts are very common for men to wear with suits… and are perfectly acceptable to wear to a wedding.
Because the white dress shirt is only a portion of the rest of the outfit including a suit and tie of a different color or pattern… this does not break the societal rule of not wearing white to a wedding.
It would be wise to refrain from wearing a white suit to a wedding or any outfit that is primarily white… but a white dress shirt is fine.
How Much White Can You Wear to a Wedding?
You really should avoid wearing any white to a wedding… White is typically reserved for the bride only… and it can be considered disrespectful and rude to wear white as a wedding guest.
You don’t want to draw any attention away from the bride on her wedding day.
If you are wearing a dress that has a pattern that includes white along with other colors… this would be acceptable as long as the primary color of the dress is not white… Anything more than that would be a fashion faux pas and may upset the bride as well.
If you’re not sure… err on the side of caution and wear a darker shade like ivory or eggshell… This way you won’t be stealing the spotlight from the bride and groom… If you do have an outfit in mind… talk to your bride about it so she can make an informed decision on whether or not it’s appropriate.
Can You Wear White Shoes to a Wedding? FAQs Answered
When it comes to dressing for a wedding, one of the trickiest questions is whether or not you can wear white shoes. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about this fashion faux pas and provided thorough answers to help you navigate the tricky wedding dress code.
In general, it is best to avoid wearing white shoes to a wedding, particularly if you are attending as a guest. White is traditionally associated with the bride, and therefore wearing white shoes could be seen as disrespectful or even an attempt to upstage the bride.
It’s best to avoid any shade of white, including off-white or cream-colored shoes. Stick to darker colors like black, navy, or even metallics like gold or silver.
While a more casual or outdoor wedding may lend itself to lighter, more colorful attire, it’s still best to avoid wearing white shoes. Opt for sandals, flats, or even a low heel in a different color.
If the dress code specifically calls for white shoes, then it is appropriate to wear them. However, it is always a good idea to double-check with the bride or wedding planner first.
Absolutely! The bride is free to wear whatever color shoes she chooses on her wedding day.
It depends on the bride’s preference and the wedding dress code. If the bride wants her bridal party to wear white shoes to match her white wedding dress, then it’s appropriate. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the bride first.
Don’t panic! It’s not the end of the world if you accidentally wear white shoes to a wedding. However, try to avoid calling too much attention to your footwear and perhaps make a quick change if possible.
The same rule applies for both men and women – it’s best to avoid wearing white shoes to a wedding. Stick to dark dress shoes like black or brown, or even a fashionable sneaker in a darker color.
In summary… the appropriate shoe choice can be tricky… Some wearers think nothing of wearing white shoes to a wedding… while others would never consider it… However… the majority agree that you can wear white shoes to a wedding if you really want to.
You may also be interested in… Can You Wear Cowboy Boots with a Suit? and Do Heels Have a Weight Limit? (Can Overweight People Wear Heels?)
