Can men wear a white shirt to a wedding? According to Gentlemans Gazette, a fresh white dress shirt is a great choice for wedding attire, possibly with the option of light blue.
However, it is important to keep in mind the dress code and the preferences of the bride and groom. For beachy or more casual ceremonies, you may want to switch up your style accordingly and not feel confined to specific guidelines.
In this article, we will discuss the appropriate ways of wearing a white shirt to a wedding to ensure that you look your best while respecting the occasion and the couple’s wishes.
“Looking for the perfect outfit for a wedding? Check out this Youtube video: ‘What to Wear to a Wedding | Men’s Wedding Guest Outfits’ for answers to your question: Can men wear a white shirt to a wedding?”
What to Wear to a Wedding?
Although a white shirt is a classic and versatile piece in a man’s wardrobe, it is not recommended to wear one to a wedding as it is considered a violation of the wedding etiquette. According to www.marthastewart.com, it is a common courtesy and good manners to avoid wearing white as it may steal the attention from the soon-to-be-married couple.
Men should opt for other colors such as pastel or bold shades that complement the season and the wedding’s theme or color scheme. However, a white shirt can be worn to a wedding if it is part of a more formal outfit such as a suit or tuxedo.
Can Men Wear a White Shirt to a Wedding?
Pair It With the Right Suit
Wearing a white shirt to a wedding is acceptable as long as it is paired with the right suit. According to www.marthastewart.com, a navy blue, charcoal gray, or black suit complements a white shirt well.
It is important to choose a suit that matches the formality of the occasion and complements the white shirt.
Avoid Prints
Yes, men can wear a white dress shirt to a wedding, but it is important to avoid shirts with patterns or prints. According to marthastewart.com, wearing white to a wedding as a man can still raise eyebrows, just like it would for a woman.
To maintain a formal and elegant look, it is best to opt for a plain white dress shirt. This not only looks sophisticated but also ensures that you adhere to all-encompassing etiquette standards.
Accessorize With A Tie and Pocket Square
Yes! Men can wear a white shirt to a wedding, but they should accessorize with a tie and pocket square to add some personality to their outfit.
As mentioned on www.marthastewart.com, wearing white to a wedding as a man would attract the same amount of attention as it would if a woman wore that conventional color. Thus, the regulation is not gender-based as it encompasses all aspects of good manners and decorum.
Choose a tie in a complementary color and pattern, and select a pocket square that matches or contrasts your tie. These accessories add a pop of color to your ensemble, without detracting from the overall look of the white shirt, and will make you look stylish while still looking formal.
Consider the Dress Code
According to Martha Stewart, it would be best to avoid wearing a white shirt to a wedding, regardless of your gender. White is typically reserved for the bride, and wearing it could be seen as a breach of wedding etiquette.
It’s important to consider the wedding’s dress code, and if it is a formal event, a white dress shirt may be appropriate. However, if it is a semi-formal or casual wedding, a patterned shirt or a colored tie would be a better choice for men.
Ultimately, it’s important to dress appropriately and respectfully for the occasion.
Appropriate for Summer Weddings
Wearing a white shirt to a summer wedding is appropriate, especially for beach weddings, where a more casual and relaxed look is called for. According to www.marthastewart.com, the act of a man showing up in a white outfit to a wedding would undoubtedly attract stares, just as it would if a woman were to wear that iconic color.
This makes it apparent that the regulation isn’t necessarily gender-biased, but rather an etiquette norm that applies to everyone. So, for a more casual and laid-back wedding, it’s perfectly acceptable for men to wear a white shirt.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wearing a White Shirt to a Wedding
Can men wear a white shirt to a black-tie wedding?
According to The Knot, men should avoid wearing white to a wedding unless it is explicitly stated in the invite. However, if you decide to wear a white shirt to a black-tie wedding, keep it elegant and stylish by pairing it with a tuxedo and a black bow tie.
You can also opt for lighter shades like tan, khaki, or light grey as an alternative. Just remember to always check the dress code indicated in the invitation and follow it accordingly.
Can men wear a white shirt to a wedding as a guest?
While it is generally discouraged for men to wear white to a wedding, it is still acceptable to wear a white shirt underneath a suit or tuxedo jacket. According to www.theknot.com, lighter shades like tan, khaki, and light grey are also great options for wedding attire.
However, it’s important to keep in mind any specific dress code mentioned in the invitation or communicated by the couple.
Can men wear a white shirt to an evening wedding?
While it is technically acceptable for men to wear a white button-up under their suit or tuxedo jacket at an evening wedding, it is not recommended. According to The Knot, lighter hues such as tan, khaki, or light grey are better choices.
It is best to opt for a darker suit, such as navy blue or black, to ensure a more formal and appropriate look.
Can men wear a white shirt to a destination wedding?
According to www.theknot.com, it’s important to consider the dress code of the wedding invitation when deciding what to wear. Typically, white is not recommended unless specifically mentioned.
However, wearing a white shirt to a destination wedding is appropriate, especially if the wedding is on or near the beach. Men can also opt for lighter shades like tan, khaki, or light grey as an alternative.
Nonetheless, men can still wear a white button-up shirt under their suit or tuxedo jacket without any issues.
Conclusion
Wearing a white dress shirt to a wedding is a classic and elegant choice that is always appropriate. Light blue is also a great alternative if you want to switch things up a bit.
According to Gentlemen’s Gazette, a clean and sharp white dress shirt is the perfect attire for weddings. To add some interest, you can match your white shirt with the right suit, leather belt, and great watch.
It’s important to consider the dress code and the occasion to dress appropriately while still looking your best.
References
- Gentleman’s Gazette: Wedding Dress Code – What to Wear to a Wedding
- FashionBeans: Wedding Attire for Men
- The Art of Manliness: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Attire for Men
