What to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner: 11 Best Outfit Ideas
Rehearsal dinners are quite classy and emotional events that mean a lot to the bride and groom. It's the occasion when the couple rehearses the wedding ceremony in advance of the big day, which is why it's essential not to miss any detail.
Rehearsal dinners often take place at a restaurant or groom's parents' home and are usually held the night before the wedding. Depending on the couple's preferences, the dinner can be formal or casual, and that's how the invitee's outfit should be, as well.
A rehearsal dinner dress will depend on many factors, such as a dinner style, dress code, time, and location. If you receive a printed invitation, you’ll get a clue and find the best outfit idea that matches the couple’s expectations.
Have a look at the 11 following rehearsal dinner outfit ideas based on the most critical factors you should have in mind. Let's start.
Rehearsal Dinner Dress Code: What to Expect?
Choosing an ideal wedding rehearsal attire is not as easy as you might think. Most people get a verbal invitation, in which a couple rarely mentions a dress code invitees should stick to. Such situations make the overall decision more difficult, especially for women, who are not sure what style to embrace.
Rehearsal dinners sometimes are formal affairs, while some couples decide to throw a casual party. To prevent coming in an outfit that’s not appropriate for the atmosphere of the event, it’s better to reach out to the couple or their family and ask them more about the dinner’s dress code and overall style.
The most common factors you should consider while choosing your rehearsal outfit are:
Invitees
Rehearsal dinners often have a limited guest list, which includes the couple’s families and close friends. It means that you’re supposed to be dressed in line with the event, which is usually written on the invitation – the dress code can vary from super-casual to black-tie, depending on the couple’s preferences.
Since it’s about a small circle of guests, make sure you don’t stand out too much. Whenever you’re not sure about the dress code, ask the couple to explain it to you.
The Location
The location is also essential when it comes to picking your perfect apparel. Since rehearsal dinners are often held at a restaurant, you should go for a dressier look – an occasional lovely dress and a pair of heels.
If the couple has decided to throw a party at home or a local bar, you should go for something more casual, such as a flowing maxi dress or comfortable pair of pants. The location will help you pick an appropriate outfit and accessories you can use to complete your overall style.
Time of the Event
Rehearsal dinners are typically held in the evening, but some couples tend to choose the afternoon. Evening rehearsals call for dressier apparel, while the afternoon may require some more relaxed pieces in which you'll feel comfortable.
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Top 11 Rehearsal Dinner Dresses to Consider at Any Time
You’ll pick your ideal piece depending on your “role” at the rehearsal dinner. Have a look at the following categories and dresses that might inspire you to choose the best outfit for the upcoming event and look fantastic:
Rehearsal Dinner Dress for the Bride
It's your weekend, and it's your opportunity to shine! Even though you've already chosen your wedding gown, rehearsal dinner is a place where you can go for something bolder and more prominent.
Some of the outfits you may want to choose include dress or a jumpsuit in a bright color or print, or generally something that will contrast to your wedding gown. Most women decide to go for a white dress, but we suggest something a bit bolder.
Have a look at the following rehearsal outfit ideas for brides:
Lavender Cap Sleeve Lace Dress ($78.00)
If you prefer bright and smooth colors, you should go for a Lavender Cap Sleeve Lace Dress ($78.00). Lace is an ideal detail to embrace the weekend before your big day, as it boosts your elegance and classiness. This head-turning piece is enhanced by cap sleeves, a crew neck cut, hidden back zip closure, and full lining. Pair it with pink heels, big earrings, and a lovely hairstyle to get a fabulous look that will be remembered for a long time.
Black Lace Hem Slip Dress ($78.00)
To help you pick something outside the box, we suggest a Black Lace Hem Slip Dress ($78.00). This is a unique and fabulous dress for rehearsal dinner, and it will make the bride feel more confident and more relaxed before the big day. A midi-length cut, adjustable spaghetti straps, a flirty V-neck, and a romantic lace finishing bring a delicate and chic touch to this piece, making it suitable for different occasions, regardless of the level of formality.Pair it with nice heels and a big-sized silk scarf to take your elegance to the next level and make sure you look gorgeous.
Straight Neck Jumpsuit in White ($68.00)
If you want to stick with the white color, take a look at the Straight Neck Jumpsuit in White ($68.00). It’s quite a classy piece that can be improved with proper accessories, shoes, and even a blazer. A jumpsuit like this one is suitable for dressier events that require a dose of occasional spirit, and what makes it appropriate is a square neckline, side pockets, a hidden back zipper closure, and full lining.
Rehearsal Dinner Dress for the Bridesmaids
Bridesmaids are the leading ladies behind the bride, which is why they should look gorgeous, as well. You may not want to outshine the bride, but you'll want to look stunning, considering that you're one of the most important women in the bride's life.Since maxi dresses and gowns are reserved for the big day, rehearsal dinner will be a perfect place to wear a flirty and chic mini cocktail dress:
Crème Cowl Neck Satin Slip Dress ($78.00)
Show off some leg in the Crème Cowl Neck Satin Slip Dress ($78.00). It’s a fabulous head-turning piece that comes in a variety of colors, from the soft ones to bombastic jewel tones, and it’s perfect for bolder ones who’re not afraid of emphasizing their sexiness and tendencies toward an impeccable style. This piece is featured by the satin fabric and a perfectly draped neckline that will make anyone speechless.
Champagne Front Slit Bustier Dress ($88.00)
Any bridesmaid will feel sexy and confident in the Champagne Front Slit Bustier Dress ($88.00). It features underwire cups for extra support, while a front slit leg opening enhances the attractiveness and makes any woman look compelling in this marvelous piece. Other advantages of this dress include a full lining, hidden back zipper closure, and two color options (champagne and black).
Light Pink Mini Dress with Pleated Sleeves ($148.00)
To enhance your style with a touch of summer flirt, we recommend a Light Pink Mini Dress with Pleated Sleeves ($148.00). A high neckline and dramatic pleated sleeves are some of the details that make this dress an outstanding choice for bridesmaids that want to stand out and stand side by side with the bride.
Rehearsal Dinner Dress for the Guests
Only a certain group of people are invited to rehearsal dinners, and if you’re one of them, consider yourself special. Honored guests should pay attention to their attire since they don't want to let the hosts down – that said, they may go for head-turning yet simple outfits such as a little black dress, patterns and florals, sleek trousers, a silk cami top, or a fancy blazer.
Have a look at these inspiring items:
Black Cowl Neck Satin Slip Midi Dress ($98.00)
A fabulous little black dress is an always on-trend piece you'll never go wrong with. Wear a Black Cowl Neck Satin Slip Midi Dress ($98.00) and won’t go unnoticed – this precious item features the satin fabric, an ideally draped neckline, and a unique neck opening that adds a dose of subtle sexiness to your overall look.
Fuchsia and Black Asymmetric Floral Dress ($88.00)
Floral designs are another evergreen choice for both casual and semi-formal occasions. That said, you’ll look gorgeous in the Fuchsia and Black Asymmetric Floral Dress ($88.00), especially if the rehearsal dinner is held outdoors. It’s an authentic summer staple featured by a long finish on the right and a shorter mid-thigh on the left, adjustable straps, and a soft, lightweight fabric that makes this dress comfortable and suitable for hot summer days.
Crème Cowl Neck Satin Cami Top ($48.00)e
A dressy top such as a Crème Cowl Neck Satin Cami Top ($48.00) may be an ideal rehearsal dinner attire guest may find incredible. It's made from a high-quality satin that provides breathability and an excellent look, and details such as cowl neck and spaghetti straps make it suitable for a variety of events, no matter if they're more casual or semi-formal. This top comes in five gorgeous color choices, convenient for everyone's preferences.
Pair it with sleek jogger pants or wide-leg trousers, add some fine accessories, and take your overall look to the next level.
Black High-Waisted Relaxed Side Zip Trousers ($88.00)
A stunning pair of high-waisted pants are an excellent choice that may be a part of your wedding rehearsal attire. You won’t go wrong with a Black High-Waisted Relaxed Side Zip Trouser ($88.00), which can be nicely paired with a dressy top, a blazer, and a pair of killer heels. It’s a convenient solution for both afternoon and evening events, and it will enhance your overall look with a dose of elegance and sophistication.
Black Beaded Fringe Asymmetrical Blazer ($148.00)
An item like the Black Beaded Fringe Asymmetrical Blazer ($148.00) is a perfect choice for rehearsal dinners in which you want to emphasize your style while keeping your classiness. A chic beaded fringe hem is a detail that adds a dose of uniqueness to this blazer, but we shouldn’t ignore a double front button closure, fun asymmetrical cut, and flap pockets, which are the elements that complete the blazer and make it suitable for a wide variety of occasions.
What Does the Mother of the Groom Wear to Rehearsal Dinner?
No matter if you chose a traditional or modern wedding style, the groom's mother dress should be conservative and appropriate. She should go for the outfit convenient for the dinner's level of formality. She should also avoid wearing black unless the bride and groom approved it.
The mother of the groom can also wear some accessories and shoes, and she can create a nice hairstyle that matches her overall look.
What to Wear to a Wedding Rehearsal Dinner: 6 Extra Tips Worth Considering
Rehearsal dinners may be quite stressful occasions for the couple, especially in terms of outfits. However, you shouldn’t let the stress beat you – think wisely and let the wedding inspire you to give your best and make the rehearsal dinner the night to remember.
Here are the 6 vital tips that may help you choose the best rehearsal dinner outfit and reduce the stress that might be preventing you from shining bright:
1. Let the Location Inspire You
Couples often choose the location that reminds them of their first date or other special moments during their relationship. And since every location comes with a particular style, which should serve as your outfit inspiration.
Depending on where your rehearsal dinner takes place, you’ll go for a casual, semi-formal, formal, or even black-tie attire. Go for a relaxed, casual attire for backyard BBQ, an occasional dress for an elegant soiree at a country club, or a flirty cocktail dress for a rooftop party – the choice is yours.
2. Consider Food as an Additional Clue
If you’re a rehearsal dinner guest who's not sure about the right outfit, we suggest you take a look at the dinner menu, if specified on the invitation. The type of food served can speak for the formality of the event – if you see a five-course meal, get ready to embrace more formal apparel.
3. Go Beyond Your Wedding Gown
You’ll wear a wedding gown at your wedding, which is why you should go for something less alluring at rehearsal dinner. Go for something that helps you express your personality and makes you feel more comfortable than a wedding dress.Play with designs, colors, patterns, and accessories, and don’t be afraid of wearing something bolder. Make a statement – it’s your night.
4. Incorporate Some Color
You’ll never go wrong with the white color at the rehearsal dinner, but it’s always better to go for something a bit different. However, if you feel more comfortable in white than any other color, go for it. It’s important to feel confident and beautiful in your skin.
5. Put Comfort First
Rehearsal dinners are places that call for comfort. Since you’ll be greeting your guests and mingling with family members, it's essential to wear something that will allow you to move seamlessly. Avoid itchy hemlines and skirts that keep riding up – go for something comfy instead and spend quality time with your fiancé, friends, and family.
6. Wear Dressy Shoes
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