Weddings are a memorable blend of romance and celebration. However, it also has a complex web of etiquette to navigate; one age-old debate that remains is what is appropriate to wear to a wedding. Various garments have gone through the wringer: hats, crop tops, kaftans, and now—sweaters.
The answer to the question “Can I wear a sweater to a wedding?” is yes; a sweater can be a wonderful addition to your attire. However, it depends on the ceremony’s dress code, season, and theme.
The appropriateness of wedding guest attire with sweaters is explored in further detail below, including a detailed explanation for each dress code and season. Some tips to remember are also provided.
Can You Wear a Sweater to a Wedding? Answered
As Always, Check the Dress Code
Regardless of what you are contemplating wearing to a wedding, be it a sweater or your nicest pair of jeans, the first thing you should consult is the dress code. This information will be the biggest factor in whether you should wear a sweater to a wedding.
The most formal dress codes—white tie, black tie, and formal—have strict etiquette regarding the appropriate attire. Women typically wear elegant floor-length gowns or chic dresses, while men don two-pieces or suits. In this case, sweater wedding attire might look out of place and inappropriate.
If the prescribed dress code is either semi-formal or cocktail, you are sitting on the sweet spot between glam and casual. If the weather calls for it, a tasteful sweater or stylish wrap could be a practical and gorgeous addition to your attire.
A casual dress code gives you the most flexibility. However, it does not give you permission to do whatever you want. You can absolutely wear a sweater to a casual wedding, but make sure it is polished and well-fitted. Pair it with dressy trousers or a mid-length skirt.
Is It the Right Season for Sweaters?
One of the primary purposes of a sweater is to give you an additional layer, protecting you from the cold. Commonly used fabrics for sweaters, such as wool and cashmere, help you maintain your body temperature during chilly weather.
As such, wearing a sweater to a wedding is perfect for autumn and winter ceremonies. You can be stylish and warm at the same time.
Oppositely, the weather can be too hot at a summer and spring wedding for sweater wedding attire. Not only would a sweater make you look out of place, but it may also make for an uncomfortable experience.
Wearing a Sweater to a Wedding: Tips to Remember
Various Styles of Sweaters
Sweaters, in general, are any knitted garment worn on your upper body. Though generally with long sleeves, different styles have emerged in recent years. Besides the traditional sweater, here are some common variations:
- Cardigan. Cardigans are considered a variation of a sweater that opens and closes down the front. A lightweight cardigan in a stylish fabric—think cashmere, silk, or fine-knit wool—can be a gorgeous second layer to your outfit.
- Shawl. A geometric piece of fabric worn over the head or shoulders, many consider shawls a more elegant variant of sweaters. As such, you can wear a shawl to a formal wedding if you need additional coverage or warmth.
- Sweater Dress. A sweater dress, generally speaking, is a knitted or crocheted dress that can stand alone as an outfit. You can style them as you would any other dress, and they can be appropriate for a wide variety of weddings.
- Sweater Vest. A sweater vest is a typical sweater but without sleeves. This can be a bespoke additional layer for men’s, women’s, and non-binary guests’ attire. In a casual outdoor wedding, you can also wear a sweater vest by itself.
All in all, whether you can wear a sweater to a wedding is a nuanced matter, and the answer partly depends on which style of sweater you will don. Each one will be appropriate for a different situation.
Keep in Mind the Wedding Theme
- Classic or Traditional. Given that such weddings have formal dress codes, your best options for wearing a sweater to a traditional wedding are a high-quality shawl or cardigan over a dress or a chic sweater vest under your suit or blazer.
- Rustic or Country. Often held outdoors, a rustic or country-themed wedding highlights nature. A sweater is perfectly appropriate in this case; cardigans, shawls, sweater dresses, vests, and even classic sweaters can be excellent options.
- Beach or Nautical. A light sweater can give you some protection from the sun, the breeze, and the cold. A cardigan and a shawl can also be great alternatives. Either way, opt for breathable fabrics and colors that emulate the beach and the ocean.
- Vintage. The appropriate sweater to wear for a vintage wedding depends on the specific era being referenced. A flapper-style shawl will be perfect for a Roaring 20s-themed reception, and structured and cropped cardigans were in style during the 1950s.
- Contemporary or Modern. Fashion-forward and statement sweaters will be gorgeous for a semi-formal or casual modern wedding. Research the latest fashion trends. Find sweaters with tasteful patterns, one-of-a-kind necklines, and timely embellishments.
- Bohemian. As Bohemian attire is all about expression and style, it is appropriate to wear a sweater to a wedding. You can find sweaters with interesting patterns, natural fabrics, and earthly elements.
Final Thoughts
Coming up with a guest wedding attire with sweaters that suits the dress code, matches the level of formality, and makes you feel confident can be challenging. However, doing your homework is necessary to prevent a fashion faux pas.
