Wedding season is upon us, the fridge door is filling up with invites and everyone is asking themselves one thing: What shall I wear to this one? 

From embroidered dresses to contemporary co-ords, the rules on wedding guest outfits have changed. So, to save you from the late-night scrolling, our Fashion Writer Amber is here with all the answers you’re looking for. 

Q: Can I wear black to a wedding?  

A: The age-old question that’ll always be met with a ‘yes’ from me. Historically, wearing black to a wedding was seen as a major fashion faux pas, reserved only for those in mourning. But in 2024 the fashion set vote that yes, you can wear black to a wedding. Whether it’s a black-tie wedding or not, black dresses are a timeless option you can re-wear easily for a plethora of occasions, making the investment worthwhile. 

If, like mine, your wardrobe looks like a (chic) void of colour, opt for a sleek 90s bandeau dress, jersey jumpsuit or a black leopard print dress for a 2024 edge.  

Still worried about wearing all-black? Try a floral dress with a black base instead. Still timeless, still wearable to anything, but a touch softer. 

Q: I need a beach wedding guest outfit. What’s appropriate? 

A: One word: Linen. Featherweight and floaty, a linen sundress will catch the breeze beautifully, keeping you cool under the beating sun. Beach weddings have a lovely, relaxed atmosphere so you can lean into that with fluid silhouettes, natural fabrics and bold colours. Just finish the look with a pair of gold sandals you can walk across the sand in and a generous helping of SPF.  

Q: What’s a good alternative to a dress? 

A: Not a dress person? Same. Jumpsuits and co-ords have been growing in popularity for wedding guest outfits – and I think they’re perfect for making a statement. A satin skirt with a matching waistcoat? It’s a big yes from me. 

Q: What if I want to rent a dress? 

If you’ve seen the likes of My Wardrobe HQ, you’ll know that dress hire is the new black. If your calendar is full of weddings, races, christenings (and more) and you want to keep your fashion game strong with minimal commitment (read: cost), we’ve got you. Browse our curated collection of Monsoon dresses for rent with My Wardrobe HQ. With everything from embroidered wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses that don’t blow the budget to the perfect guest outfit, we’ve got something for every plan. 

Q: I hate wearing heels, are flats too casual? 

A: Heels aren’t for everyone – and wearing flat shoes with a dress is actually trending right now. Good news for those weddings where you simply cannot stay away from the dancefloor. 

And no, flats doesn’t mean boring. These beautiful silver ballet flats get compliments every time I wear them, and these new diamante-trim pointed flats make you question why you ever bothered with stilettos in the first place. 

Want height without a heel? Wedges are the answer… Or try these petite block heels instead. 

Q: Can I wear a white dress to a wedding? 

A: While pure-white dresses are a no-no (unless the bride has specified otherwise), white-print dresses are a great option. Whether it’s monochromatic spots, florals or colourful tiles and daisies, we’ve got just the thing. 

Q: Is it unlucky to wear red to a wedding? 

A: Unlucky, not so much. But it can be a controversial colour. While some people believe you shouldn’t wear such a flashy colour (so you don’t distract from the couple), in other cultures, wearing red is as much of a faux pas as wearing white. If in doubt, double check with the couple – and if they don’t mind, go for it! 

This ruffle dress is the perfect choice for destination weddings, while this statement red floral midi dress is perfect for UK weddings. 

Q: How do I make sure I don’t wear the same colour as the bridesmaids? 

A: If the colourway on the invite doesn’t give you a clue, it’s totally fine to ask the couple themselves. Don’t want to bother them? We’re seeing a huge influx of dusty blue bridesmaid’s dresses, blush pink bridesmaid’s dresses, and sage green bridesmaid’s dresses this wedding season. So, if you steer away from those colours, you should be safe. 

Q: I don’t suit hats! How else can I accessorise with headwear? 

A: We’ve got you. Dress up bouncy blow dries with this timeless pill box fascinator. If that feels too much for you, slide some sparkle into your hairstyle with some diamante heart hair clips or try a headband. With gem embellished or sleek satin styles, there’s something for every wedding guest. 

Q: Do I need a bag? Where do I put it? 

A: Bags are always handy at weddings. Like a little home for your lippy and phone during the celebrations. Fortunately, Monsoon is never short of occasion bags. 

From pleated satin to embellished florals, beautiful beading and beyond, our occasion bags come with an optional chain strap so you can keep it in-hand, sling it over your shoulder, or pop it in the cloakroom. They’ll look great on your table, too.  

Q: How do I know what shoes to wear? 

A: Easy, peasy… Look up the venue and you can decide from there. Think kitten heels for indoor or city weddings, block heels or wedges for al fresco weddings and flat sandals for beach weddings! 

Q: Can I wear the same dress to another wedding?  

A: If anything, we encourage it! Outfit repeating is the future and Monsoon is made to last. We want to see you looking fab in your Monsoon wedding outfits over, and over, and over again.  

Finally feeling inspired? Take a look at our wedding guest outfits and find your favourite.