What Dress to Wear to a Niece's Wedding

Family members may be advised to dress in wedding colors.

Picking a dress for a niece's wedding requires coordination with the bride in addition to adherence to etiquette. It is important to be sure the dress will neither clash with wedding colors or too closely mimic the choice of other family members. Asking the bride for guidance will ensure the best family photographs of the event.

White Tie

For very formal weddings, the aunt of the bride should wear a formal, floor-length gown. Avoid selecting a white gown at all costs, as this can potentially overshadow the bride by mimicking her appearance too closely. Heels are an integral part of formal attire. However, if the aunt will be participating in formal photographs or a receiving line, ensure the choice of shoes is sufficiently comfortable. Checking with the bride well in advance about wedding colors is particularly important, to ensure the gown does not clash.

Black Tie

Black tie weddings offer significantly more options for the aunt of the bride than other formal weddings. Both long gowns and shorter cocktail dresses are appropriate. Depending on the season of the event, the gown can be dressed down with a nice cardigan to provide needed warmth. White is never appropriate, though a black dress may be acceptable. Check with the bride about wedding colors and any plans to provide family members with corsages.

Formal

A formal wedding that does not specify any particular mode of dress code can allow a number of clothing options for family members. Particularly formal gowns and gloves may not be appropriate, though cocktail dresses and suits are both acceptable options. Check with the mother of the bride and groom to gain insight into selecting a dress without overshadowing any other family members. Unless the invitation specifies that the wedding is beach formal, heels and hose should be worn.

Casual

Truly casual attire is likely inappropriate for a family wedding unless specified by the invitation or venue. Jeans, khakis and shorts should not be worn. Consider obtaining an appropriately colored pant or skirt suit or sun dress, depending on the season of the wedding. While hair and makeup styles can be casual, it is best to avoid extremely informal styles such as ponytails. Heels are not necessary and can be replaced with nice sandals or flats.

References

• "Atlanta Bridal"; Dressing the Mother of the Bride and the Mother of the Groom; Lei Lydle; March 2009
• Martha Stewart Weddings: Wedding Guest Attire
• The Knot: Wedding Guest Attire Cheat Sheet