What to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner as a Guest

When it comes to a wedding, the celebration often starts well before the day of the actual ceremony. In addition to the engagement party, bridal shower, and bachelor/bachelorette festivities, depending on your relationship to the couple, you may receive an invite to the rehearsal dinner. Occurring a day or two before the nuptials, this affair is typically held after the wedding party has rehearsed for the big day. While traditionally, this event only included immediate family members, the wedding party, and occasionally a few out-of-town guests (who traveled a long way!), nowadays, couples are often extending invites to other friends and family members as well. And if you receive such an invitation, you may be left wondering what to wear to a rehearsal dinner.

A rehearsal dinner will not be as formal as the wedding day itself. Even if the couple’s nuptials specify a white- or black-tie dress code, you won’t have to don your floor-length gown or tuxedo to this pre-nuptial celebration. Yet you should still think about what attire may or may not be appropriate, as this isn’t a time to slip into your jeans (unless the couple institutes such a theme!).

Here, Sharon Warten, a fashion and wedding stylist, provides some much-needed guidance on what to wear to a rehearsal dinner. Read on for all of her top tips on dressing for this event, including key faux pas to steer clear of.

How to Decide What to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner

To start, take a look at the invitation, which will include all the important details for the evening, such as the venue and any information on the proper attire. “Knowing the venue or location beforehand will be the first step in helping you decide what to wear,” says Warten. “If it’s a more formal location, your best bet is to wear cocktail attire or that dress you’ve been holding onto in your closet for an exceptional occasion.” She suggests picking fabrics, colors, and prints based on the season and dinner location. “In the summer months, choose lighter and brighter colors,” she says. “In the fall and winter, go with jewel tones or darker colors! Soft, quiet subdued prints can show off your personality without stealing the bride’s thunder.”

Know that the rehearsal dinner will typically never be more formal or fancy than the wedding itself, and use that as a measuring stick to help guide your outfit selection. “Rehearsal dinners tend to be a more relaxed version of the actual wedding, but it’s still a fun time to show off your personal style,” says Warten. As with all events, avoid wearing anything that will make you uncomfortable. You don’t want to be pulling and tugging on your outfit, especially if you’re standing up to give a speech. “Pick an outfit formula that is true to your style and silhouette which will make you look and feel confident,” she says.

Rehearsal Dinner Attire For Men and Women

Once you have a general concept of the dress code based on the invitation, it’s time to start shopping. Classic styles and cuts will always be the best choice, Warten says. “I like classic and elegant fabrics, such as silk, satins, chiffon, lace, or embroidery,” she adds. “These fabrics and textures are another perfect way of displaying your personal style.” Depending on how formal the rehearsal dinner is, men may want to wear either a button-down and chinos or a suit. However, don’t be afraid to accessorize with custom cufflinks, patterned socks, a trendy tie, or a pocket square. 

While women certainly can’t go wrong with a classic cocktail dress, there are plenty of other options you can wear that show off your own personal style. “Not everyone feels comfortable wearing dresses, so I’m thrilled to see more options when it comes to jumpers and elegant suits,” says Warten. “In more recent years, a silk suit and trouser set have become more of a norm.”

If you’re part of the wedding party, chances are you didn’t get to pick your bridesmaid dress. And while the rehearsal dinner is a great opportunity to have fun with your outfit, be careful not to go overboard. If your dress or ensemble is the statement, pair it with nude heels and simple studs. Or, if you’re sticking to a little black dress, upgrade it with a chandelier or drop earring and an embellished clutch. If it is a destination wedding, consider a tropical dress with floral patterns. Ultimately, when it comes to your style, it’s all about balance. Stick to one statement piece, whether that’s a dress or a necklace, and let the rest of your outfit speak softly. 

Don’t forget about the finishing touches. Your hair, makeup, shoes, and accessories can take your ensemble to the next level. Make sure to consider all these little details as you’re planning your final look to create something truly special. “Accessories should never be an afterthought,” says Warten. “Having the right accessories can complete the outfit and give it that wow factor.”

Rehearsal Dinner Outfit Etiquette

“Rehearsal-dinner dress-code etiquette will have the same vibe as the wedding,” says Warten. “If the rehearsal dinner is later in the evening, it will be more formal. When unsure, you can always ask someone from the bridal party.” As with any event tied to the big day, make sure not to upstage the bride. If you’re worried your outfit is too flashy or distracting, it probably is. Avoid any loud prints or something that’s overly sexy. “Once again, this takes attention off the bride, and no one wants to outshine the bride during any of her pre-wedding celebrations,” Warten says. Even though this isn’t the ceremony or reception, wearing white is also still a no-go—unless otherwise stated or requested by the couple.

Sometimes, the couple may have a theme to their rehearsal dinner, which will be noted on the invitation. If that’s the case, don’t be afraid to lean into it, whether it’s inspired by the Wild West or the Roaring Twenties. In such a scenario, the invitation will be the key in helping guide your attire selection.