As a wedding guest, figuring out what to wear can be tricky. You want to look stylish and put-together, but not overdressed. So how do you know if wearing a royal blue dress is appropriate? Here are some quick answers to common questions to help you decide if royal blue is a good option for a wedding.
The Traditional Rules
Traditionally, guests are advised not to wear white, cream, or ivory, as those colors are reserved for the bride. Black is also sometimes considered a no-no, as it can signify mourning. Other than that, most colors are fair game. Royal blue is not one of the explicitly off-limits shades, so it does not break any hard-and-fast wedding guest dress code rules.
Consider the Formality
Royal blue may be better suited to formal weddings, especially those held in the evening. Its rich, jewel tone reads dressier than pastels or lighter shades. For formal, black-tie weddings where the dress code is floor-length gowns for women, a royal blue evening dress would fit right in. But for informal daytime weddings, a royal blue sundress could potentially come across as overdressed compared to what other guests have on.
Watch the Style
The style of the dress matters just as much as the color. A simple royal blue sheath dress would likely work for a wide range of wedding styles. But a short, tight cocktail dress in royal blue might be better reserved for the reception or a night out dancing. Aim for a style that matches the formality level of the event.
Consider Skin Tone
Royal blue is a bold color that makes a statement. It can be an excellent choice for weddings if it complements your skin tone well. If you have a warmer skin tone, go for shades of royal blue with subtle warm undertones like jewel-toned sapphire. Cooler skin tones can pull off brighter, bolder royal blues. And those with neutral skin tones have lots of flexibility.
Accessorize Appropriately
The accessories you pair with a royal blue dress also impact whether it is wedding-appropriate. For shoes, nudes, silver, or metallic tones work well. Avoid styles that are overly flashy or avant-garde. For jewelry, go minimal with simple silver or diamond stud earrings and a basic bracelet or necklace. And for bags, opt for small, elegant clutches or minaudières in metallics or neutral hues.
Consider Cultural Norms
Cultural traditions may also dictate what colors are suitable or taboo at weddings. In some cultures, red and other bright, bold colors are avoided as only the bride wears red. In others, black is commonly worn to weddings. If attending a wedding outside your own culture, do some research beforehand on color choices. When in doubt, muted tones like mauve, dusty blue, and blush tend to be universally safe colors for weddings.
Look to the Invitation
The wedding invitation may offer dress code guidance, either formally or informally. Phrases like “black-tie optional” give you clues as to formality. If an ethnic dress code like traditional Filipiniana or Indian formal wear is specified, steer clear of blue unless it aligns with those cultural norms. The invitation can serve as your guide on whether royal blue seems suited to the event.
When in Doubt, Ask
If you are unsure whether a royal blue dress would work, it never hurts to ask the bride or groom for input. Share a photo of the dress you have in mind, and ask if they think the color and style would fit with their vision for attire. This gives them a chance to course correct if needed. Most will appreciate you checking in beforehand!
Watch for Clues at the Venue
When you arrive at the wedding venue, you will likely get additional visual clues as to whether a royal blue dress is appropriate. Scan what the mother of the bride, female relatives, and other guests are wearing. If you find yourself standing out starkly in color or formality, you may wish to tie a wrap or shawl over your royal blue dress to tone it down.
Conclusion
Royal blue is a timeless, elegant color that can certainly work for a wide variety of weddings these days. With its regal, sophisticated flair, it is most fitting for formal or black-tie events. For informal daytime weddings, aim for understated styles. Consider the bride’s preferences, cultural norms, and overall vision for attire as you make your choice. When paired with the right neckline, silhouette, and accessories, a royal blue dress can allow you to stand out stylishly as a wedding guest—without upstaging the bride!
When is Wearing Royal Blue Recommended or Not Recommended for Weddings?
| Situation | Recommended? |
|---|---|
| Black tie, evening wedding | Yes |
| Informal, daytime outdoor wedding | No |
| Invitation specifies formal attire | Yes |
| Invitation specifies casual attire | No |
| Ethnic dress code specified | No |
| Bride requests no red or bright bold colors | No |
| Cooler skin tone | Yes |
| Warmer skin tone | Yes, if jewel-toned |
As shown in the table above, royal blue is generally recommended for formal evening weddings and when the attire is specified as formal. It is not recommended for informal daytime weddings or when the bride requests avoiding highly saturated colors. Skin tone can be taken into account, along with any ethnic dress codes. But when in doubt, it is safest to check with the bride or groom directly.
Acceptable Royal Blue Dress Styles for Weddings
These royal blue dress styles tend to work well and be wedding-appropriate:
- Floor-length evening or ballgown
- Cocktail dress with modest hemline and neckline
- Sheath or shift dress at knee-length or below
- Dressy jumpsuit with elegant accessories
- A-line dress in chiffon or lace fabrics
- Fit and flare dress with conservative neckline
- Maxi dress for very casual outdoor weddings
Key elements that make these dressy yet acceptable are the modest silhouettes, conservative hemlines and necklines, and elegant or delicate fabrics. Stay away from overly sexy styles and stick to a refined, formal aesthetic.
Royal Blue Dress Styles to Avoid for Weddings
These royal blue dresses would likely be too informal or attention-grabbing for most weddings:
- Short mini dress
- Tight cocktail dress with plunging neckline
- Sequined or beaded mermaid prom dress
- Casual sundress or beachy maxi dress
- Oversized billowy dress with loud prints
- Bandage dress or other overly clingy styles
- Off-the-shoulder or strapless styles
Stay away from anything too revealing, clingy, casual, or embellished. Save those attention-grabbing dresses for a night out clubbing instead of a wedding!
Choosing Blue Shades for Different Skin Tones
Some tips on selecting the best shades of royal blue for your skin tone:
- Fair, cool skin: Bright royal blue, primary blue, blue with purple undertones
- Medium, cool skin: Royal blue, cobalt blue, blue with subtle jewel tones
- Olive, cool skin: Royal blue with green undertones, teal-tinged blues
- Dark, cool skin: Vibrant royal blue, blue-toned purples like majorelle
- Fair, warm skin: Royal blue with subtle warm undertones, dusty blue
- Medium, warm skin: Sapphire blue, lapis blue, blue with subtle orange hints
- Dark, warm skin: Royal blue with brown hints, indigo blue, jewel-toned blue
Staying in the same color family as your skin’s undertones helps the blue flatter you best. But overall, any richer, darker shade of blue tends to suit warmer skin tones excellently for formal events like weddings.
Tips for Accessorizing a Royal Blue Dress for a Wedding
- Nude, champagne, silver or metallic shoes
- Minimal jewelry like simple diamond studs
- Sleek hair up or half up
- Neutral or metallic clutch for evening
- Pashmina or shawl in case of cool weather
- French manicure or other subtle nail polish
- Use makeup to play up eyes or lips, but not both
The key is keeping accessories, hair, nails, makeup and shoes elegant and understated. Let the royal blue dress be the star and avoid anything loud or over-the-top in your styling.
How to Style a Royal Blue Dress Down for a Daytime Casual Wedding
If the wedding is more casual, here are some tips for toning down a royal blue dress:
- Add a neutral cardigan or denim jacket
- Pair with casual sandals or wedges instead of heels
- Wear minimal or no jewelry
- Carry a straw or fabric handbag instead of a clutch
- Do a relaxed hairstyle like a ponytail or braid
- Use neutral nails and natural-looking makeup
Keeping the dress shape simple and unfussy helps too. Stay away from anything too tight, short, or party-ready. The accessories, hair, makeup, and outer layers help create a more casual, daytime vibe.
General Tips for Selecting Any Color Dress to Wear to a Wedding
- Avoid white, cream, ivory, and in some cases red or black
- Consider the formality and time of day
- Choose a style that is appropriate for a wedding
- Make sure the color flatters your skin tone
- Accessorize tastefully and avoid outshining the bride
- Check the wedding invitation dress code
- Ask the bride if you are unsure about a dress
- Scope out the venue to make sure you match other guests
By keeping these tips in mind, you can feel confident you look stylish and elegant at any wedding in any color dress, including a stunning royal blue!
