What to wear for my best friend's wedding？

[Jessicaaaaa]

What to wear for my best friend’s wedding? That’s the big question on my mind right now, and I’d love to get some advice. I want to strike the right balance between elegance, comfort, and a sense of personal style, but at the same time, I don’t want to overshadow the bride or clash with the bridal party. Weddings are such meaningful occasions, and as this one is particularly close to my heart, I feel a little pressure to get it just right.

When I think about the bridal party, I realise it’s important not to confuse my outfit with theirs. For example:

Coordinated and stylish: Bridesmaid dresses usually follow the chosen wedding colour palette.

Elegant and practical: They are designed to look beautiful but still allow freedom to move and dance.

Matching and harmonious: Bridesmaid dresses are often made in the same fabric and style to create a unified look.

With this in mind, I’d like to find something unique yet still appropriate for the celebration. My main dilemma is whether to opt for a formal gown, a cocktail dress, or something a little more understated but still festive. Should I embrace bold colours, or would something softer be more appropriate for a best friend’s wedding? I’m also considering how accessories, shoes, and even hairstyle might affect the overall look. If you’ve attended weddings as a close friend of the bride, I’d love to hear what worked for you. What would you wear in this situation?

[basil67]

Kindly, you're overthinking it.

1. There is absolutely zero chance you're going to overshadow the bride.   She's THE BRIDE.  You're just one of many guests.    Yes, I know that you're a dear friend of the bride but it really has no relevance.

2. Do not choose a dress which could be confused with a bridesmaid dress.  It's not hard to avoid looking like a bridesmaid

3. Choose a dress which fits with the dress code.  Make sure it doesn't flash your cleavage or your crotch

4. Wear any colour you like except white or cream

5. Wear nice shoes for the wedding and early reception.  If they will make your feet hurt, pack a pair of white sneakers for the dancing

6. Do whatever you want with your hair and accessories.

7. truly, nobody is going to be noticing you or care about what you wear.  All eyes will be on the Bride and Groom

8. Last time I went to a wedding, I had to change clothing plans due to unseasonably cold and wet weather and made a mad dash for the mall the day before and bought something which was appropriate, and I wore a wrap over it to try and stay warm.  

Edited September 18 by basil67

[Sanch62]

If I'm close enough to a bride to consider her my best friend, I'd ask her about cocktail length versus formal and any other input she'd care to share.

[Els]

Is that commercial link really needed? Most of us know what a formal gown is, no need to link to a specific retailer.

But to answer your question, you're way overthinking it. Wear something that's not white and that adheres to the dress code in the invitation. That's literally it. 

If it helps, I can't even remember what my friends wore to my wedding, even though I remember most of the things that we did and said.

[Scarlett321]

I totally get the pressure, it’s such a special occasion, and you want to look amazing without stealing focus from your bestie. A great middle ground is a classy midi or cocktail dress in a color that complements (but doesn’t match) the wedding palette, think jewel tones, soft pastels, or elegant neutrals. Flowy fabrics like chiffon or satin always look timeless and photograph beautifully.

Pair it with simple statement jewelry, comfortable heels (you’ll thank yourself later!), and a polished hairstyle that feels like you. Go for elegant, not extra — that balance always stands out for the right reasons.

[MsJayne]

Depends what time of day the wedding is being held, what dress code has been specified on the invitation, what colour/s the wedding party are wearing, the weather, the style of wedding, (eg: relaxed beach wedding or formal church wedding), and your own individual style. Without knowing all of these variables we cant really advise you on what to wear. Traditional rules say don't wear white or cream, or whatever colour the bride is wearing if she's not going for white. Don't wear the same colour as the bridesmaids because it makes you look like you're trying to be one of them. Don't have big cleavage or too much leg on display, and don't wear stilettos that will be crippling you before they've even said, "I do".  If you're unsure about what suits you and what would be appropriate maybe you could go into a store where they sell formal wear and ask for advice, or you can research it online. You can now use AI to see what outfits will look like on you, using tools such as Google Shopping's 'try it on'. Just take a full-length photo of yourself with your hair and make up done and then upload it and have the time of your life.

https://support.google.com/googleshopping/answer/16253678?hl=en 

 

[Alpacalia]

Wait. Are you in the wedding…or attending as a guest? That’s a key detail! If you’re in the wedding - say, a bridesmaid or maid of honor then your outfit will likely be chosen or coordinated with the bride.

I've been to a lot of weddings and if I am a guest I just wear what I feel comfortable with. Comfort with a touch of elegance is a winning combo.

Just find something that you feel amazing in. That’s the sweet spot.

Here’s a little mantra I like for wedding guest style: “Celebrate, don’t compete.” You’re there to honor your friend, share joy, and maybe tear up during the vows—not worry about …whether your dress is trending on Instagram or if your heels are high enough. The best outfits are the ones that let you be fully present. Laughing, dancing, hugging, and maybe even ugly-crying during the speeches.