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Wearing Black to a Wedding: Controversial or Outdated?


Can You Wear Black to a Wedding?

Years ago and even currently for certain couples, wearing black to a wedding was and is considered disrespectful and symbolic of your views around their companionship.

In the traditional sense, wearing black to a wedding was a way of saying that you didn't agree with what was going on, and it was a sly way of objecting without verbally shouting it out and causing a scene like they do in the movies.

So these days, can you wear black to a wedding? There are a few things to consider, so stick around as we break it down for you.

Why is it Taboo to Wear Black to a Wedding?


So why is it wrong to wear black to a wedding? The idea of this is not an old tradition; wearing black even for the bride was considered practical in the 1800s as fabrics were expensive, white got dirty really quickly, and dry-cleaning didn't exist back then.

When a man remarried in the 1800s after the death of his late wife, often his new bride would wear black as a sign of respect and mourning. The idea of associating black with mourning is an old tradition from ancient Greece; when a family member died, the immediate family was expected to wear a dark fabric toga called a pulla toga. This continued through western practices and into modern society.

As for the taboo nature of wearing black to a wedding, the exact instance is unknown, but it is linked to the idea that wearing black is to show mourning and, in context, mourning at a wedding isn’t great.

Times Are Changing


People are starting to realise that eliminating black is restricting yourself from a whole lot of cool outfits; who doesn't love wearing black; it's sexy, elegant, and powerful!

Freedom of expression is a mentality that society values more and more as years go on, and with this, traditions and vices that prevent humans from reaching creative heights become less valued. This extends to other circumstances of marriage, sexuality, occupation, religion and yes, whether it’s acceptable to wear black to a wedding!

You definitely have to take into consideration whose wedding you’re attending, but at an entry-level… go for it… live your life!

Wearing Black as a Guest


So if you've made your mind up and wearing black to this wedding isn't going to ruffle anyone's feathers, you still have to consider complying with the dress code. We’d say that wearing black slots nicely into an autumn or winter wedding, but realistically, all of that is up to interpretation anyway.

Here are the things you need to consider;

Location

Where's the wedding held? Will black actually suit the venue setting? If it's a beach wedding in the summer, you may feel less inclined to wear black, the same goes if it's a spring wedding at the botanical gardens. Use the information given on the wedding invitation to decipher whether it's appropriate/suitable to wear black.

Season

We touched briefly on seasonality in the above section, but to emphasise things, think about the time of year/season as this will clearly indicate and replicate how the bride envisioned her guests dressing. If it's a summer wedding, she's thinking floral, fresh and clean, winter and she's thinking more formal and royal, autumn she's thinking earthy tones, and spring she's going for a creative environment.

Dress Code

When you receive a wedding invitation, there's usually a small brief stating the dress code; whether it's formal, semi-formal, black tie, black tie optional, or white tie, this may affect whether you can wear black. There is a fair bit of grey area on these dress codes, which is why most invitations will give you a bit more background on the preferred attire. If it doesn't, don't be afraid to reach out to one of the bridesmaids or even a fashionable friend you trust.

Wearing Black in the Bridal Party


Unless this is something that's organised, 100% do not wear black, where what you've been told to wear, full stop. Suppose you've been given the blessing of helping the bride decide what the bridal party should sport on the day, then sure, why not suggest black as an option.

Black Dresses for a Wedding

HOUSE OF CB Adrienne Corset Maxi (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
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HOUSE OF CB Charmaine Corset Gown (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
LEXI Samira Dress (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
IVONA SKELO Vivia Dress - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
HOUSE OF CB Adrienne Corset Maxi (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
HOUSE OF CB Charmaine Corset Gown (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
LEXI Samira Dress (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
IVONA SKELO Vivia Dress - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out


Nookie Penelope Drape Gown

Welcome to one of the newest styles here at Dress for a Night, with this gorgeous Nookie Penelope Drape Gown you are sure to turn heads whilst still staying on theme. This gorgeous cowel neck detail is low cut to just lower than the breast bone, with a tie at the back to sinch you in. Look no further for your next black dress for a wedding!


Nookie Love Affair Gown

She was popular once, so she is back again! The gorgeous nookie love affair gown is the perfcet simple yet elegant black wedding guest dress. a sweetheart neckline is very flattering across the bust, with a fitted bodice, that is boned to create a corset structure. The Mermiad skirt makes for an easier movment and more comfort when wearing the dress.


Aje Pandorea Gown

The Aje Pandorea Gown is the perfect wedding guest dress! With a flattering halter neck, the layering detail along the dress is absolute perfection.Creating a flower like design, the dress is fitted with a tie up back to create a more flattering fitted look. The length is great with some heals if you are looking to not trip over too!


Effie Kats Verona Gown

The Verona Gown by Effie Kats is a stunning black option for a wedding guest look. This gown features a sleek, minimalist design with a high neckline with a low-back detail that exudes sophistication and allure. The luxurious stretch fabric offers both comfort and elegance, ensuring it flatters and fits beautifully. Ideal for a black-tie or evening wedding, the gown’s classic silhouette pairs effortlessly with statement jewelry and a chic clutch to complete a refined wedding guest outfit.


House Of CB Adrienne Corset Maxi Dress

The House of CB Adrienne Corset Dress is cut from a thick satin that drapes across the body. The built in corset allows for a flattering hourglass silhouette. This dress is all about luxury which is why we think it makes the perfect wedding guest outfit and nails the formal dress code. You can never go wrong with a black dress, no matter what season, which is why we know you will fall in love with this dress. Accessorising is simple - add a pop of colour to elevate your look, or stick the basics and opt for neutral accessories for a classic look.


Rebecca Valance Rina Split Gown

The Rebecca Vallance Rina Split Gown offers a sophisticated yet eye-catching look. This gown features a sleek, fitted silhouette crafted from bonded fabric, which elegantly hugs the body. The standout details such as hand-riveted diamante embellishments along the straps and bodice, plus a striking front thigh-high slit creates a dramatic and glamorous aesthetic. Its square neckline and diamante bow embellishment add to its polished look, making it ideal for formal wedding settings.


Lexi Samira Dress

The Lexi Samira Dress is a fan favourite style for all formal and black tie occasions. A glamorous floor-length, one shoulder style made from a stretch satin. This style is extremely flattering and elegant, and makes the perfect black tie outfit. Although this style has a thigh high split, you can easily use double sided fashion tape to close the two pieces of fabric together. This promising hack, makes this dress an effortless style as a wedding guest.


Tania Olsen Ondine Dress

The Tania Olsen Ondine Dress combines elegance and sophistication featuring a fitted mermaid silhouette with a striking side leg split, creating a dramatic yet tasteful look. Its structured bodice showcases sheer corsetry with exposed boning and delicate lace appliqué, adding a modern touch while maintaining a timeless appeal. The stretch satin fabric ensures a flattering fit and comfortable movement throughout the event, while the gown’s sweep train adds a touch of formal elegance.


Leo Lin Odette Midi Dress

The Leo Lin Odette Midi Dress is the picture of elegance and classic dresses. With a gorgous A line skirt, this dress sits at midid length so is perdfect of you are lookign for something more comfortable that you won't trip over. The bodice of this dress is quite tight fitted to give a more corset look. A comfortable chic option for a black wedding guest dress.  

 


Aje Soundscape Dress

The Aje Soundscape Maxi is a fan favourite here at Dress for a Night with a beautiful layeting detail across the dress the a line design makes for a flattering fit. The Maxi lentgh is not too long if you are looking for a shorter design. This dress is such a classic, a very elegant choice for a wedding guest dress.


Lia Stublla Eviana Gown

The Lia Stublla Eviana Gown is a beautiful strapless gown featuring an asymmetric neckline with a corset bodice. This dress gives a stunning hourglass silhouette and we know you will love this dress for your next formal event. This gown is sure to turn heads and will leave you feeling glamorous. We love this style for formal weddings where every guest is required to make a statement with their outfit.


Pasduchas Composure Gown

The Pasduchas Composure Gown exudes sophistication and elegance. This dress features a draped neckline which is very comfortable and makes the dress a super modest piece. The dress gives an extremely flattering silhouette and will leave you feeling super confident! If you're needing a formal gown for a wedding this is your go-to. Suitable for all ages, you cannot go wrong with this classic style. We also love this dress for mother of the bride/groom.


Don't Forget Your Accessories!

HOUSE OF CB Adrienne Corset Maxi (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
HOUSE OF CB Charmaine Corset Gown (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
LEXI Samira Dress (Black) - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out
IVONA SKELO Vivia Dress - RRP 9,Dress for a Night
Sold out

Rent a Black Dress with Dress for a Night

If your current situation has ticked all the boxes and wearing black to your upcoming wedding is going to make anyone’s mascara run, then explore our wedding guest collection; there are hundreds of highly-rated dresses for rent!

Buying a dress for a one-time occasion can be a hefty expense. With our hiring system you can wear the dress for a fraction of the retail price, without adding more clutter to your wardrobe. It is an efficient and sustainable service that also reduces the overconsumption that comes with fast fashion. Why not contribute to the greater good and look amazing while doing it?

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