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Dress Code for Wedding: Understanding the Basics
Formal Wedding Attire: Dressing for Elegance
How To Dress For A Wedding Based on Season and Location
Wedding Guest Attire: What Works and What Doesn’t
Key Tips for Choosing the Right Outfit
What Not To Wear: Avoid These Wedding Faux Pas
Additional Considerations for Mothers of the Couple
Dressing for Specific Wedding Locations
Wedding Etiquette Tips to Keep In Mind
Choosing what to wear to a wedding can feel overwhelming, especially with the variety of dress codes, seasons, and locations modern weddings now embrace. In this episode of the Style for Life podcast, Stephanie Rumble from Bright Red breaks down every essential detail you need to know about dressing confidently and appropriately as a guest, or even as the mother of the bride or mother of the groom.
Stephanie shares her styling expertise and gives real-world advice drawn from hundreds of consultations. With a friendly, professional tone, she walks listeners through styles, fabrics, etiquette, and practical tips tailored to New Zealand weddings.
Dress Code for Wedding: Understanding the Basics
Before anything else, Stephanie emphasises reading the invitation carefully. The wedding dress code is often indicated and is an important clue. From ultra-formal affairs to laid-back beach ceremonies, knowing what the couple expects can help you plan with confidence.
Understanding the dress code makes shopping and decision-making easier, and it also ensures you won’t feel out of place on the day. This section is especially helpful for anyone unfamiliar with traditional wedding categories or unsure where to start.
Common types of dress codes for a wedding include:
White tie wedding: Floor-length evening gowns for women and tailcoats for men. Rare in New Zealand.
Black tie wedding: Tuxedos and long or cocktail gowns. A growing trend among younger couples.
Semi formal wedding: Knee-length dresses or dressy suits for women, tailored suits for men.
Casual wedding attire for men: Chinos and button-down shirts; avoid jeans and shorts.
Casual dresses for wedding: Sundresses, midi skirts, or smart casual outfits for women.
“For a casual wedding, aim for sundresses or midi skirts, and avoid jeans, t-shirts, and shorts.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
The setting and formality level will heavily influence your outfit choices. Always lean into elegance while interpreting the couple’s stated vibe.
Formal Wedding Attire: Dressing for Elegance
Formal wedding attire usually aligns with black tie wedding or white tie wedding events. These occasions are rare but growing in popularity, especially among younger couples who want a touch of traditional elegance.
“White tie is the most formal dress code there is, requiring floor-length evening gowns and tailcoats.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
For women, options include:
Full-length gowns.
Elegant cocktail dresses for a wedding setting.
Structured or flowing pant suits in luxurious fabrics.
Nowadays, many young people are choosing more formal weddings, which is a wonderful opportunity to dress up.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Men typically wear tuxedos or dark suits, with appropriate ties or bowties. Stephanie notes that dressing up shows respect for the couple and elevates the experience. The choice of accessories, hairstyle, and even fragrance can enhance the sense of occasion.
“Black tie is a sensational look for a wedding, often featuring tuxedos, floor-length gowns, or formal cocktail dresses.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Formal events may also take place in the evening or at upmarket venues, which may call for a more refined style. If the wedding leans formal and you're unsure, remember: it's better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. And if you want expert help putting together a polished look from head to toe, consider Stephanie’s personal shopping service to save time and feel completely confident in your outfit.
How To Dress For A Wedding Based on Season and Location
Choosing how to dress for a wedding means factoring in wedding season and wedding location. These two elements influence fabric, colour, and silhouette decisions. Stephanie breaks this down clearly with practical tips.
“A wedding is a celebration of the bride and groom: it should feel like a fiesta of joy for everyone involved.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Stephanie suggests:
Summer weddings (especially beach wedding attire) call for breathable fabrics like linen, chiffon, and silk.
Winter weddings benefit from warmer fabrics like velvet, wool, or brocade.
For a garden wedding outfit, floral prints and light layering pieces are ideal.
Consider These Seasonal Tips:
Bring a wrap or shawl for some church weddings or unpredictable weather.
Avoid stiletto heels for outdoor or garden venues.
Check the forecast to stay comfortable while staying stylish.
Being strategic about fabrics and footwear makes a huge difference. Your outfit should feel good and suit the venue, whether it’s a windswept vineyard, a forested estate, or a beachfront ceremony. You’ll also want to consider how colours show up in natural light or photos depending on the time of day.
“Wedding photos often survive for generations.”~ Stephanie Rumble
If you need support in building a wardrobe that flexes with the seasons, Bright Red’s wardrobe audit service is a smart place to start.
Wedding Guest Attire: What Works and What Doesn’t
Dressing as a guest means honouring the occasion. Stephanie reminds us that wedding guest attire should always feel celebratory, polished, and thoughtful. You’re not just a guest. You’re part of the visual story the couple will remember through photos for years to come.
Keep in mind:
Avoid white, ivory, or anything bridal-looking.
Respect religious venues by covering shoulders.
Avoid over the top pieces like neon colours or extremely revealing garments.
Don’t try and be the star of the show – it’s the couple’s day.
“Respect the occasion by dressing for it; it is a privilege to be invited to share in a couple's celebration.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Some Safe Choices Include:
Styles of wedding guest dress in NZ that feel both elegant and seasonal.
Dresses that reflect the formality, vibe, and colour palette of the day.
Coordinated outfits with your partner if attending together.
Colour, comfort, and cohesion are your best allies. And if in doubt, aim for a balance of personal flair and understated sophistication. Stephanie’s advice helps reduce anxiety and boosts confidence, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with dressing for events.
Key Tips for Choosing the Right Outfit
Throughout the podcast, Stephanie shares a set of style commandments. Here are her top key tips for dressing right at a wedding:
Avoid white: Never compete with the bride.
Check the invite: Follow the stated dress code.
Be comfortable: Choose pieces that fit and feel good.
Avoid over the top: Skip neons, extreme cleavage, or excessive skin.
Overdressed is better than underdressed.
Hats or headpeices? Only if it fits the setting and complements your outfit and is rarely worn for New Zealand weddings.
Mother of the bride or groom? Know what the bridal party is wearing and aim to fit in – photos are forever.
Stay away from bridal party colours: You don’t want to blend in with the bridesmaids.
Seasonal considerations: Dress for the weather and time of year.
Always have something to cover shoulders: Especially important for church venues.
Don’t try and be the star of the show: Respect the event.
Save rips for another occasion: Everything should be polished and photo-ready.
Avoid 'over the top' outfits that are too revealing; a wedding is a respectful environment where modesty is often appreciated.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
These tips are especially crucial for older guests, parents, or anyone feeling unsure. If you follow these principles, you’ll look effortlessly appropriate and blend into the spirit of celebration.
Stephanie’s advice is all about dressing with intention—not just to impress, but to align yourself with the energy and tone of the day. When in doubt, keep things classic and thoughtful.
What Not To Wear: Avoid These Wedding Faux Pas
Stephanie is clear on what not to wear to a wedding. Avoid anything that distracts from the couple or doesn’t align with the dress code. When in doubt, err on the side of understated elegance.
Fashion don’ts include:
Ripped or worn clothing.
Excessively neon or flashy outfits.
Revealing dresses with too much cleavage or leg.
Fascinators or headwear that feels outdated or costume-like.
“Unless specified otherwise, a guest should always avoid wearing white, cream, ivory, or vanilla to a wedding.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
These fashion mistakes aren’t just a matter of taste. They often clash with the mood, theme, and tone of the day. Weddings are personal events with emotional and visual significance.
Choosing modest wedding outfits that balance style and respect will always work in your favour. Opt for high-quality materials, well-fitted garments, and accessories that feel thoughtful and intentional.
Additional Considerations for Mothers of the Couple
The mother of the bride dress or mother of the groom outfit deserves special attention. Stephanie reminds us: you’ll be in the photos forever.
If you’re in this role:
Know the bridal party colours and coordinate without matching.
Opt for elevated elegance or something that suits your style.
Choose a style that flatters your body and feels comfortable all day.
“If you are the mother of the bride or groom, choose an outfit that complements the bridal party for photos that will last a lifetime.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
Photos from the wedding are among the most treasured keepsakes for a family. That’s why it’s essential to dress in a way that enhances group images while showcasing your individual style. You want to feel like the best version of yourself.
Consider accessories, makeup, and appropriate wedding attire that photograph well in natural light. From the bouquet toss to champagne toasts, you’ll be remembered—make sure it’s for all the right reasons. If you’re unsure about how to choose colours that suit you for these moments, a colour analysis consultation can make all the difference.
Dressing for Specific Wedding Locations
From churches to wildlife parks, every wedding location brings its own vibe. Stephanie recommends matching your outfit to the setting.
Think about:
The couple’s personality and the theme.
The time of day (daytime weddings vs evening receptions).
Whether the venue is indoor or outdoor, and its dress code expectations.
“If you are unsure about the dress code, reach out to the couple to clarify so that you fit in with the spirit of the celebration.” ~ Stephanie Rumble
If the wedding is outdoors, bring stylish outerwear or sun protection. If it’s indoors or formal, elevate your style choices accordingly. Wedding season and location always influence the final look. Clothing that’s appropriate for the setting communicates thoughtfulness. The more aligned you are with the venue and mood, the more effortlessly your outfit will shine.
Wedding Etiquette Tips to Keep In Mind
Finally, a few wedding etiquette tips go a long way:
RSVP early and follow any style notes from the couple.
Don’t arrive in anything resembling a bridal look.
Keep your shoes on, even when tired. It’s a sign of polish and respect.
Weddings are a celebration of love and community. Your outfit is a gesture of that celebration. Choose pieces that allow you to fully engage in the event, feel great about yourself, and honour the hosts. Stephanie reminds us that a wedding is a privilege to attend. Dress to honour the couple and celebrate their day.
Final Thoughts
Stephanie Rumble’s episode offers a comprehensive, thoughtful guide to navigating what to wear to a wedding in New Zealand. Whether you’re a guest, a parent of the couple, or someone coordinating an outfit for yourself and your partner, this podcast lays out everything you need to consider. From formal wedding attire and black tie weddings to casual dresses for weddings, there is a style solution for everyone.
The key takeaway? Respect the occasion, honour the dress code, and choose clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable. When you do that, your wedding day look will not only be appropriate. It will be unforgettable.
To dive deeper into building your personal style or preparing for an upcoming event, explore Stephanie’s full range of services including body shape consultation and fashion stylist training. These consultations are designed to help you dress confidently and express your best self.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to choose an outfit for a summer wedding?
Lightweight fabrics like linen, chiffon, or silk are ideal for warm-weather weddings, especially beach or garden venues. Choose something breathable that suits the dress code and allows you to move comfortably and confidently. A soft floral print or light solid colour is perfect for blending into a cheerful, sunny celebration.
How can I make sure I’m dressed appropriately for the wedding theme?
Reading the invitation carefully is the first step, as most couples include the vibe or dress code they’re envisioning. If you’re unsure, reach out and ask. For extra support, a styling consultation can help you interpret the theme and choose something that aligns with the setting, season, and couple’s expectations.
What should a mother of the bride or groom wear to stand out (in a good way)?
Mothers of the couple often appear in many photos, so the key is to look elegant and timeless without overshadowing the wedding party. Opt for colours that complement the wedding palette, and consider professional guidance through a colour analysis or body shape consultation to find a truly flattering ensemble.
Can I wear black to a wedding if the dress code is formal?
While black can be styled beautifully, it’s not always the most festive or joyful choice for a wedding. Stephanie encourages choosing colours that reflect the celebratory nature of the day—think rich jewel tones, elegant neutrals, or seasonal palettes that complement the setting. If you're unsure what works best, a colour analysis consultation can help you find options that are more flattering and occasion-appropriate.
How do I pick the right shoes for different wedding venues?
Outdoor and garden venues call for practical footwear that won’t sink into the ground, such as wedges or block heels. For indoor or formal spaces, you can explore dressier options like stilettos or strappy heels. The most important thing is to choose shoes you can comfortably wear all day.
What’s the best way to dress confidently for a wedding?
Confidence starts with fit and comfort. Choosing an outfit that complements your shape, suits the event’s tone, and feels like "you" will help you feel at ease and stylish. Services like personal shopping or body shape consultations can offer valuable support in selecting pieces that make you feel amazing.
How do I coordinate with my partner for a wedding?
Think in terms of harmony, not matching. If one of you is wearing a patterned outfit, the other can pick a colour from that print to create visual cohesion. Coordinating without going overboard looks polished and thoughtful, especially in photos.
What should I wear to a wedding if I don’t usually dress up?
Start with something elevated but still within your comfort zone, like a simple dress or smart trousers and a stylish blouse. You don’t need to go over the top—just aim to look polished and respectful of the occasion. A wardrobe audit or styling consultation can help you ease into a more formal look without pressure.
Are there outfit options for curvier guests that still feel stylish?
Absolutely. The key is to choose garments that celebrate your shape, with structure in the right places and fluidity where needed. Curvy guests often benefit from professional support like colour and body shape consultations to find pieces that highlight their best features while staying comfortable.
Should I change outfits between the ceremony and reception?
Only if there’s a significant shift in venue or formality. Most guests stay in one outfit for the full celebration, but if you have a dress that feels too structured for dancing later, a quick change into something more relaxed (but still stylish) can be fun. Make sure both options still reflect the couple’s theme.
