What to Wear to a Wedding in 2025?
Outfit Guide for Wedding Guests
As a Norwich wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of attending a wide variety of weddings—from elegant country house ceremonies to laid-back, beachside celebrations.
One thing remains consistent across them all: wedding guests are often left scratching their heads over what to wear. Whether it’s a city wedding, a rural affair, or you’re just joining for the evening, figuring out what to wear can feel daunting.
But don’t worry—I've got you covered! Whether you’re searching on Google for “what to wear to a wedding female” or “what to wear to a wedding men,” this guide will help you choose the perfect outfit for any UK wedding.
And let’s be honest, no one wants to rock up looking like they’ve wandered in from the Rovers Return or had a dramatic showdown outside the Woolpack!
What to Wear to a Wedding (Female Edition)
For women, weddings are the perfect opportunity to dress up and look your best. But we’ve all had that moment of rifling through our wardrobes, fretting over whether an outfit is too much or too casual. Don’t worry—it’s all about balance.
Daytime Ceremony Outfits
If you’re attending the ceremony, elegance is the name of the game. You want to look smart but not overdo it. Let the bride shine, but feel free to add your own flair.
A midi or knee-length dress: Perfect for most daytime ceremonies—whether it’s a grand venue or a village hall. Think classy, not over-the-top; after all, this isn’t a Coronation Street wedding!
Pastel or floral prints: These are safe bets and give off a soft, romantic vibe, especially fitting for spring or summer weddings. You’ll look picture-perfect, even if you’re dodging a downpour.
Light, airy fabrics: Choose fabrics like chiffon, silk, or lightweight cotton. Ideal for the unpredictable UK weather—whether the day calls for sun or a sudden shower.
Evening Reception Outfits
When it comes to the evening reception, you can have a little more fun with your outfit. It’s time to dance, chat, and possibly catch the bouquet (if you’re lucky!).
Cocktail dresses or stylish jumpsuits: Sleek, fitted styles work wonders for evening events. Think glamour without being overly formal, because no one wants to look like they’re off to a black-tie gala unless that's the dress code.
Bold colours and statement accessories: While soft tones work well for daytime, evening events give you the green light to try bolder hues and add some sparkle. But remember, you’re there to celebrate, not steal the show!Casual or Dressy Casual. Why not take a look at our images our Norwich wedding photographs
What to Wear to a Wedding (Men’s Edition)
For the gents, weddings might seem like an easy excuse to throw on a suit and tie, but there’s still a bit more to consider. You don’t want to be underdressed, but you also don’t want to look like you’ve just come from a business meeting at the Bistro (a little Emmerdale nod for you there).
Daytime Ceremony Outfits
When it comes to the ceremony, it’s best to stick to something formal but comfortable.
A tailored suit in grey or navy: These colours are classic choices that work for almost any wedding setting, from grand cathedrals to casual outdoor venues. It’s a fail-safe look that shows you’ve made an effort, without overdoing it.
Smart shoes: Polished leather shoes like brogues or Oxfords are perfect for keeping your look sharp. And trust me, nothing ruins wedding photos more than scruffy trainers poking out from under a smart suit!
Evening Do Attire
If the invite says "black tie," it’s time to get fancy! Men, this means a tuxedo or a very smart dark suit, while women can go all out with a floor-length gown. Heels, sparkly accessories, and a touch of glamour are definitely encouraged here.
If you’re heading straight to the evening reception or just want to change things up, you can tone down the formality a little while still looking polished.
Blazer and smart trousers: You can ditch the full suit, but don’t get too casual. A smart blazer with a crisp shirt and trousers will help you strike the perfect balance. You’ll be set to enjoy the party without looking like you’ve wandered in from a pub night out.
Dress shoes or loafers: Comfort is key if you’re planning on hitting the dancefloor when "Sweet Caroline" or "I Will Survive" kicks off. But keep them smart—trainers are a no-go unless the couple has made it clear they’re fine with casual attire.This is a relatively new one, and it basically means have fun with it. You’re still aiming for cocktail attire, but feel free to add a splash of colour, a bold print, or a playful accessory. It’s a bit more light-hearted and lets you show off your personality.
What to Wear to a Wedding Reception (Men and Women)
When you’re just attending the wedding reception, you still want to look the part—after all, there will be photos, and who knows, you might feature in the candid shots! Whether you’re male or female, dressing for the reception involves striking the right balance between comfort and style.
For Men
Blazer over a crisp shirt: You can leave the tie at home for a more relaxed feel, but keep things smart with a well-fitted blazer.
Smart shoes: Opt for loafers or smart leather shoes. Comfort and style go hand in hand, especially if you’re going to be on your feet all night, grooving to the DJ’s inevitable ABBA playlist.
For Women
Jumpsuits or cocktail dresses: These are perfect for making a stylish entrance to the evening do. Whether you opt for a sleek jumpsuit or a fun cocktail dress, the key is to feel comfortable—so you can keep up with the dancing when "Don't Stop Me Now" inevitably comes on.
Comfortable yet elegant shoes: Whether you prefer heels or flats, make sure they’re kind to your feet. Weddings often mean long nights, and you don’t want to miss the party because your shoes let you down!
What to Wear to an Evening Do (Male Edition)
If you’re skipping the ceremony and just heading to the evening reception, you can get away with a slightly more relaxed vibe. That said, you still want to look sharp, especially if the venue is a bit more formal.
Smart trousers and a blazer: A smart-casual outfit is perfect for evening receptions. Leave the full suit behind, but still aim for an outfit that shows effort. No one wants to be that guest who shows up looking like they’ve come straight from mucking out the stables at Home Farm!
Dress shoes or loafers: You’ll want something comfortable enough to dance in but stylish enough for those group shots. Keep it classy.
Tips for All Guests on What to Wear to a Wedding
Here are a few universal tips to keep in mind, regardless of the type of wedding you’re attending: Read below for the deets
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Respect the dress code: If the couple have requested black-tie, don’t turn up in your Sunday best from the Dog and Duck. Equally, if it’s a more casual affair, don’t feel the need to wear a three-piece suit or floor-length gown.
No white, and avoid bridal tones: Leave anything that could be mistaken for bridalwear at home. Whether it’s ivory, cream, or a shade too close to white, it’s best to avoid any "wedding dress" confusion!
Be ready for all weather: UK weddings can be unpredictable weather-wise. Make sure you’ve got a stylish coat or jacket, and perhaps an umbrella, in case you need to dash between venues in true British fashion.
Conclusion
When it comes to figuring out what to wear to a wedding—whether you’re female, male, attending the full day, or just popping in for the evening—the key is to feel comfortable, confident, and suitably dressed for the occasion. Weddings are happy, celebratory moments, so your outfit should reflect that spirit.
As a Norwich wedding photographer, I’ve seen plenty of outfits that hit the mark and a few that perhaps didn’t. Stick to these tips, avoid any soap-opera-worthy drama with your wardrobe choices, and you’ll be perfectly dressed to celebrate in style!
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Thanks for taking the time to read feel free to look at other blog posts about Norwich Weddings
