Going to an Evening Wedding Reception? I've Got You With These 5 Chic Outfit Ideas
If there's one thing I love, it's an opportunity to dress up. Sure, a wedding is all about celebrating the happy couple, and celebrate them I will, but these days opportunities to don an elegant ensemble are few and far between, so I really have to rely on weddings as my excuse to enjoy a little glamour. With this in mind, I believe that one of the best kinds of wedding invitation to receive is one with an evening reception.
An evening event frees you from some of the dress code expectations of a daytime affair. A British summertime wedding guest typically turns to pastel shades and floral prints when the event is during the day. But for an evening reception, the options expand to include more elegant options. Styles that might be a tad more controversial for daytime wear, like embellished designs, black pieces and higher hemlines, become viable —and very fashionable — options after dark, and if dresses aren't your thing, you can give the groomsmen a run for their money with a sharp tailored look.
If you have an evening wedding reception coming up, scroll on to find my pick of the top styles that are sure to impress.
1. Silk Gown
Style Notes: The silk gown is a wedding guest classic for a reason. It's supremely elegant, understated enough to not compete with the bride, and can be repeated for a number of weddings and still feel fresh with just a few accessory switches. For evening events, your colour options are wide open—opt for seasonally appropriate pastel hues, or go darker with deep browns or navy.
Shop the Look:
CHRISTOPHER ESBER
Cutout Silk-Satin Maxi Dress
A flash of skin you can get away with at an evening wedding.
Reformation
Jeany Silk Dress
Reformation never disappoints when it comes to silky dresses.
Anthropologie
The Lily One-Shoulder Satin Maxi Slip Dress
I love this pistachio hue.
Reformation
Casette Silk Dress
The dramatic back is perfect for an evening reception.
SIR
Lush Beaded Silk Satin Slip Dress
2. Black Dresses
Style Notes: Yes, you can wear black to a wedding. Nowadays, the idea that it's an inappropriate colour for a wedding guest is, frankly, outdated, especially when it's an evening event and even more so if the dress code is black tie. If you're nervous, inject some colour into the outfit with your shoes or jewellery.
Shop the Look:
I'm obsessed with the neckline.
& Other Stories
Off-Shoulder Maxi Dress
That gold hardware is such a cool touch.
Róhe
Silk-Trimmed Wool-Blend Gown
This silhouette is so elegant — I'd pair with some dramatic sculptural earrings and a great clutch.
NORMA KAMALI
Maria Draped Satin Gown
I wore the white version of this as a bridesmaid recently and can't recommend it enough.
Reformation
Jamen Knit Dress
Style with strappy heels and, if you fancy, a bold red lip.
3. Mini
Style Notes: If you tend to prefer a higher hemline, good news—mini dresses are wedding guest appropriate, especially for evening wear. Keep it suitable by balancing with a higher neckline and opting for more elevated fabrics like silk.
Shop the Look:
COS
Embellished Mini Shift Dress
A gorgeous wedding guest look with a high street price tag.
Significant Other
Lucile Halter Satin Mini Dress
AJE.
Genesis One-Shoulder Ruffled Shirred Muslin Mini Dress
Perfect for summer weddings.
SELF-PORTRAIT
Appliquéd Satin Mini Dress
How gorgeous is this colour?
Reiss
Draped Tuck Mini Dress in Pale Pink
The drape of this pale pink number makes it look so much more expensive than it is.
4. A Suit
Style Notes: Not a dress person? Show up the groomsmen with your own tailored look. A sharp black suit always looks effortlessly cool yet refined, and can be made your own with accessories, from strappy heels to a dramatic necklace.
