Does the Bride Have to Wear White to Her Pre-Wedding Parties?

Experts say yes, but here's what you'll want to keep in mind.

bride dressed in white for shower
Photo: Donna Lam Photography

Although most assume that white is a shade that can only be worn exclusively on your wedding day, expert bridal stylists and wedding planners suggest that this age-old rule can be broken, as they say you can wear this iconic shade during all your pre-wedding events including the bridal shower, the bachelorette party, and even your bridal luncheon.

However, if you aren't exactly sure how to incorporate this hue into your look, we spoke to expert planner Alicia Fritz, owner of A Day in May Events, and bridal stylist Julie Sabatino about all the dos and don'ts of wearing white before you actually walk down the aisle. Here are the key points they recommend to keep in mind.

You Can Wear White to Your Bridal Shower

"Typically, the first formal pre-wedding event is your bridal shower, and this is a great party to own the tradition of the bride in white," Fritz says. No matter the season or the formalness of the party, Fritz explains that a bridal shower will be a memorable day for close friends and family. And chances are your loved ones will definitely want to shower you with praise, so she says it's a great time to wear what you want.

Add Elements of White to Your Bachelorette Party Look

"Next in the line is your bachelorette party, and depending on the location you choose and time of year, I would encourage you to mix in some white wardrobe elements," Fritz explains. This includes wearing a great swimsuit if you are headed to the beach, she suggests.

You Can Definitely Wear White to Your Bridal Luncheon

"You are hours away from floating down the aisle in a white gown, so for a bridal luncheon, you can wear whatever you'd like," Fritz suggests. She recommends choosing a great floral print that is fun and feminine with a laid back hairstyle for the summer months. And for the cooler temps, Fritz suggests opting for a tailored pair of slacks, a low heel, a cami, and a blazer to tie your look together. However, no matter what you decide to wear, she explains that it's important to remember that it's your special day.

A Little White Dress Can Go Along Way

"A little white dress is a good way to go," Sabatino says. You can accessorize your dress with a sweater and a jean jacket, she explains.

Always Wear What Feels Good

"Some brides want to wear white to pre-wedding events, and some don't," Sabatino says. If you don't want to wear white, she suggests wearing what makes you feel good, as blue and pink tones also work wonders.

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