Let's Settle the Whole "Can You Wear Red to a Wedding?" Thing Once and For All, Shall We?

Updated on 6/19/2017 at 2:45 PM

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If you're on the wedding circuit, you've probably asked — or maybe been asked — this question more than a couple times: can you wear red to a wedding? The short answer is a resounding yes. Why not? The only real color that's traditionally off limits is anything white, ecru, cream, ivory — you get the picture. Still, red's gotten a bad rap since it's, well, bold and bright and maybe a little too attention-getting. And, there's the old Jessica Rabbit comparison to contend with.

That said, red done right is cheery and festive — and a lot of brides are happy to see their guests embracing beautiful color (it happens to look great in wedding photos, too). I, for one, got more compliments on a red Self-Portrait dress I wore to a wedding than anything I've ever worn to weddings before or since. Just stick to some simple dress code guidelines, and like any other outfit you'd choose, make sure your red dress isn't too short, overexposed, or too casual for the event — and you'll get noticed for all of the right reasons.

See, here I am wearing red to a wedding.

While the dress was a little more head-turning than my usual look, I kept my jewelry simple and chose shoes in a neutral color to balance things out. I also love that the fuller skirt provides more coverage and has a more modest hemline.

Read on to shop more editor-approved options.

Fame and Partners Sasha Dress

This pretty Fame and Partners Sasha Dress ($249) comes with a flourish of ruffles that'll look even better moving on the dance floor.

Fame and Partners Sasha Dress

From

$249

H&M Off-the-Shoulder Dress

H&M's Off-the-Shoulder Dress ($30) is perfect for a sunny daytime wedding.

H&M Off-the-shoulder Dress

From

$29.99

Tibi Satin Poplin Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress

Add some statement earrings to this Tibi Satin Poplin Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress ($450), and it easily goes from day to night.

Tibi Satin Poplin Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress

From

$450

Saloni Ruth Off-the-Shoulder Stretch-Neoprene Midi Dress

This Saloni Ruth midi dress ($375) has subtle bow details that echo the femininity of its silhouette.

Saloni Ruth Off-the-shoulder Stretch-neoprene Midi Dress - Red

From

$375

MSGM Open-Shoulder Striped Cotton Dress

Pinstripes give this MSGM open-shoulder striped cotton dress ($593) a fresh twist.

MSGM Open-shoulder striped cotton dress

From

$593

Saloni Grace Off-the-Shoulder Dress

If red is still out of your comfort zone, try it with a print, like the one on this Saloni Grace Off-the-Shoulder Dress ($625).

Saloni Grace Off-The-Shoulder Dress

From

$625

Club Monaco Quenby Tiered Dress

There's a sweetness to this Club Monaco Quenby Tiered Dress ($289) that mellows the bold red color.

Club Monaco Quenby Tiered Dress

From

$289

Self-Portrait Self Portrait Floral Guipure Midi Dress

Go for it with the memorable, special details on this Self-Portrait Self Portrait Floral Guipure Midi Dress ($475).

Self-Portrait Self Portrait Floral Guipure Midi Dress

From

$475

Black Halo Kacie 2-Piece Maxi Dress

This Black Halo Kacie 2-Piece Maxi Dress ($375) is elegant and just a little on the sexy side.

Black Halo Kacie 2 Piece Maxi Dress

From

$375

Nili Lotan Women's Silk Charmeuse Slip Gown

With the minimalist silhouette on this Nili Lotan Women's Silk Charmeuse Slip Gown ($595), the bright red helps amp up the wow factor.

Nili Lotan Women's Silk Charmeuse Slip Gown

From

$595

Shoshanna Ruffled Shoulder Lace Midi Dress

Shoshanna's Ruffled Shoulder Lace Midi Dress ($570) is sophisticated but playful thanks to the lace detailing.

Shoshanna MIDNIGHT Ruffled Shoulder Lace Midi Dress

From

$570