The question of whether to wear black to a wedding has shifted dramatically over the years. Once considered inappropriate and linked to mourning, black attire is now embraced by many as a stylish option for wedding guests. This change reflects evolving societal norms around fashion and celebration.
Historically, black was reserved for mourning attire. In the Victorian era, for instance, widows were expected to wear black for at least a year after losing a spouse. The societal expectation discouraged attendance at celebratory events, including weddings. As the decades progressed, particularly after World War I, attitudes towards mourning began to change. An article in a 1927 issue of Vogue noted a shift in perspective, indicating that “mourning was abandoned by many people… since a universal wearing of black would have been unthinkably depressing to the public.”
By the mid-20th century, black attire found its way into everyday wardrobes, largely influenced by fashion icons like Coco Chanel and her promotion of the Little Black Dress. Despite this acceptance in daily life, a lingering belief remained that black should not be worn at weddings, often tied to superstitions and traditional views.
Celebrated bridal stylist Anny Choi asserts, “You definitely can wear black to a wedding!” She considers the old rules to be outdated, emphasizing that black is a versatile option that can be worn to various occasions. Alexandra Macon, a contributor to Vogue and co-founder of Over the Moon, echoes this sentiment, stating, “It is perfectly acceptable, and chic, to wear black to a wedding—as long as it’s festive and not funereal.”
In contemporary wedding etiquette, authors Anna and Lizzie Post in their book, Emily Post’s Wedding Etiquette, confirm that black is suitable for bridesmaids, noting that “virtually all colors are acceptable—including black and shades of white.” This acceptance has led to a rise in black-tie weddings, often held in the evening, where black attire is increasingly welcomed.
Interestingly, some brides now request their guests to don black attire. For instance, Cortne Bonilla, a senior shopping writer for Vogue, is among those who have encouraged a black dress code for her wedding.
When considering what to wear to a wedding, the dress code provided by the couple is paramount. Choi advises avoiding black if the theme suggests otherwise, such as “bold tropics.” The couple’s preferences should always guide attire choices.
The trend of brides wearing black is also gaining momentum. Notable examples include Sarah Jessica Parker, who wore a black dress for her wedding to Matthew Broderick in 1997. More recently, Taylor Simmons wore an Oscar de la Renta gown that was “ultraconservative and traditional in silhouette but unexpected in an upbeat black” for her wedding in Massachusetts. Meanwhile, Lydia Pang chose a dramatic sheer ink gown designed by Katie Roberts-Wood for her nuptials in Wales.
As weddings continue to evolve, the choice of attire becomes increasingly flexible. Fashion experts suggest considering various factors such as fabric, cut, and time of day when choosing an outfit. A slinky black midi dress or suit could be ideal for an evening cocktail event, while a black linen dress with vibrant floral accents may be more suitable for a summer afternoon wedding.
Accessorizing appropriately is crucial to complete the look. Guests can opt for a monochrome appearance, add metallic elements for glamour, or incorporate pops of color to balance their ensemble. Ensuring that all accessories are cohesive with the overall attire is essential for maintaining a polished appearance at these celebratory events.
Ultimately, the decision to wear black to a wedding can be made with confidence, provided guests pay attention to the couple’s wishes and the specific details of the event. The once rigid rules surrounding wedding attire are now more about personal expression and style than adherence to outdated traditions.
