What to Do If a Guest Wears White to Your Wedding

When it comes to wedding guest fashion etiquette rules, there are a few common practices guests are required to follow no matter the season, venue, or dress code. And while some of these protocols are dependent on a few preferences dictated by the couple, there is one popular rule that reigns supreme at almost every type of celebration—that being, to never wear white. However, what happens when a guest completely disregards tradition and wears white to your wedding?

While this may seem like a hypothetical, far-fetched situation for some brides, unfortunately, it does happen on occasion. But before you start to panic at the idea of this fashion faux pas, we have a few expert tips on how to deal with this unfavorable scenario on your big day. With the help of etiquette expert Lisa Mirza Grotts, here's what to do if a guest wears white to your wedding. Be sure to take notes!

Here's What to Do If a Guest Wears White to Your Wedding

Let's be honest, as a bride-to-be, we're sure you've thought about this scenario at least once or twice during the wedding planning process. While we hope your guests respect all dress code specifications and fashion etiquette rules, if you happen to find yourself in the midst of this unexpected situation, there are three key steps to follow in order to ensure a stress-free and positive day.

Stay Calm

Yes, we know that tensions will be high once you spot a wedding guest in head-to-toe white, but the best thing you can do in this situation is to stay calm. "There is only one bride and it’s you," says Grotts. Therefore, all eyes will be on you, not your guest, so being stressed out isn't worth the time and energy on such a special day. After all, there are likely going to be plenty of other things you'll need to worry about, and paying attention to what matters most will allow for a better wedding day experience.

Be Discreet

Though you may be tempted to approach this guest and voice your concerns, the best thing you can do is exercise discretion and distance yourself from this particular person. "Avoid creating a scene which will only make a public spectacle of you," adds Grotts. "If a guest doesn’t have enough sense to know not to compete with the bride, it will be clear to the other guests. It’s simply not done unless a guest wants to draw attention to themselves." However, if you absolutely want to acknowledge the matter, ask a member of your bridal party to politely pull this guest aside and kindly offer them a jacket or shawl to add some color to their look. The goal is to make them aware of the situation without making them feel uncomfortable throughout the entire night.

Let It Go

Lastly, the last step you should take is to let it go. While it may be extremely hard to move past this fashion crisis, you'll be glad to have taken this course of action when looking back at your wedding. "Don’t let a minor wardrobe mishap overshadow your day," advises Grotts. Instead of focusing on the problem, turn your attention to the people who love you and live in the moment. Your wedding day will likely fly by and you'll want to remember every positive memory from start to finish.