Dear Jacquelyn,

Later this summer I am attending my nephew’s wedding. I would like to wear my favorite little black dress. My friends are telling me I should avoid wearing black to a wedding. I feel a black dress is an appropriate choice. What’s your opinion on wearing black as a wedding guest?

Dear Reader,

Selecting the right wedding attire can be somewhat challenging, as you may be a bit cautious about what kind of color choices are actually appropriate.

While some may initially think you should avoid wearing black, depending on the circumstances, it may be totally acceptable.

In the past, wearing black to a wedding was frowned upon because black was a color traditionally worn at funerals and when in mourning. While wearing black to a wedding was long considered a bad move, it’s no longer looked upon with disdain.

You’ll want to be certain your favorite little black dress is a style that’s suitable for the particular time and place. The style of the dress should reflect the time of year, time of day and wedding location.

For example, for a formal wedding, a woman may wear a black floor-length gown. At a beach wedding, she may wear a black dress that’s shorter and flowy. And at a rustic wedding, a black lace dress would be appropriate.

Keep in mind there are, however, some exceptions where black is an inappropriate color to wear.

Black is often discouraged at traditional Indian and Chinese weddings, for example, as it represents mourning. To get more clarity on whether you can wear black to a wedding, it’s best to check the invitation dress code.

Ultimately, wearing black to a wedding is generally appropriate. What matters most is that you take the time to research the couple’s dress code and pick your outfit accordingly. In doing so, you’ll be appropriately dressed to spend the day celebrating your loved ones.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training. She is on the board of directors of the National Civility Foundation.

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