As the bride-to-be, you want to make a stunning impression at your rehearsal dinner. This pre-wedding celebration is all about embracing the warmth and intimacy of being surrounded by loved ones. To achieve that effortless glamour, it’s crucial to consider a few key factors when selecting your outfit. With 20 exquisite options to draw inspiration from, this article will guide you in finding your perfect attire for an unforgettable evening.
Whether you opt for casual ease or semi-formal sophistication, our today’s tips will ensure you feel radiant and ready to take on your special day with confidence.
What Should a bride wear to a rehearsal dinner?
When it comes to choosing an outfit for a rehearsal dinner, the goal is to select something that exudes confidence and relaxation. With so many options available, from sleek jumpsuits to romantic dresses, it’s essential to consider the key elements that make an outfit truly special – fabric, fit, and silhouette. The dress code for a rehearsal dinner is often a reflection of the overall tone and atmosphere of the event itself.
For brides-to-be, this typically means donning a dressy cocktail dress or jumpsuit paired with elegant heels. However, it’s also perfectly acceptable to dress up or down depending on personal style and the specific circumstances of the event. Some popular options for rehearsal dinner attire include: cocktail or midi-length dresses, skirts, rompers or jumpsuits, and simple/casual sundresses. Let’s dive a bit deeper into these ideas below.
Tips for Choosing Your Rehearsal Dinner Outfit
As you prepare to make this unforgettable day even more special for the happy couple, don’t forget to give your own style a moment to shine. To achieve the perfect look, consider these key factors. Firstly, think about the location and dress code of the event – if it’s a formal affair at a fancy restaurant, a more elegant outfit would be fitting, while a casual backyard gathering might call for something more relaxed.
Your personal style should also play a significant role in your choice of attire. Opt for an outfit that not only reflects your unique taste but also makes you feel confident and comfortable. Whether you prefer classic elegance or modern edge, let your outfit showcase your personality.
Additionally, don’t forget to take into account the weather – if the event is outdoor, ensure your outfit is suitable for the conditions, whether that’s light fabrics for warm weather or layering options for cooler temperatures. A pantsuit can be a great choice as it offers versatility. Finally, accessorize wisely with statement pieces that elevate your overall look, and don’t forget to prioritize comfort – you want to enjoy every moment of this special day without any distractions.
Dos and Dont’s
When preparing for a rehearsal dinner, there are certain unwritten rules to follow. Start by dressing appropriately for the occasion, considering both formality and theme. Remember that this is a time to celebrate with loved ones, so prioritize comfort and relaxation. Choose an outfit that allows you to move freely – avoid anything that might cause distractions or discomfort.
On the flip side, avoid getting too caught up in details, focusing on having fun and enjoying the company of your guests instead. Also, steer clear of outfits that are too casual or informal, like denim or athletic wear. By following these guidelines, you’ll set the tone for a memorable and enjoyable rehearsal dinner experience.
casual & easy outfits
When faced with an overwhelming array of fashion choices, building a casual yet stylish ensemble can be a daunting task. To simplify the process, here are a few trusted tips to guide you in crafting a look that exudes confidence and radiates beauty.
20 – white sleeveless Ruffled Jumper with matching heels
The outfit’s foundation is a stunning white sleeveless ruffled jumper, which effortlessly blends elegance with glamour. This versatile piece serves as the perfect base for the look, providing a chic and sophisticated starting point. When paired with matching heels, the overall appearance becomes polished and refined. The addition of dangly earrings and a blowout hairstyle further amplifies the glamorous effect, giving you a radiant ‘glowy bride-to-be’ aesthetic.
By combining classic and trendy elements, this outfit strikes the perfect balance between timeless charm and modern flair, making it an ideal choice for celebrating your upcoming nuptials with loved ones.
19 – white silk mini-dress paired with string heels
A contemporary take on classic elegance, this look is perfect for a bride-to-be seeking a chic and sophisticated outfit for her special day. The white silk mini-dress provides a clean and effortless foundation, while its luxurious texture adds a touch of high-end appeal. The pairing with Steve Madden’s Khari Heeled Sandal, priced at $77.47, adds a modern twist that gives the look a touch of edge.
The sleek bun and gold hoops add a touch of sophistication and glamour, making her feel like the star of the show.
18 – White Silk Satin Dress with Chunky Heels
semi-formal outfits
17 – Long white dress accessorized with a hat
White is a traditional yet enduring color choice for brides, evoking feelings of purity, innocence, and refinement. Its neutral tone makes it versatile enough to complement various skin tones, allowing the bride to take center stage. To incorporate personal flair, consider adding distinctive accessories like cowboy hats and boots. For an outfit like this, I would recommend pairing it with one of these boho-inspired bridal makeup looks.
16 – White sheer ruffle mini-dress with transparent heels
Imagine a semi-formal ensemble that exudes elegance and sophistication – this white sheer ruffle mini-dress with transparent heels fits the bill perfectly. The delicate ruffles imbue the dress with a soft, feminine charm, while the see-through heels inject a bold, modern flair. The short length of the dress adds a playful touch, balancing out the airy quality of the sheer fabric.
This outfit is an ideal choice for a bride who wants to showcase her unique sense of style and make a memorable impression.
15 – white Feathered Top with matching pants
Summer & Spring outfits
14 – Baby Pink Floral Embroidered Dress
For an enchanting rehearsal dinner, consider donning a vintage-inspired baby pink floral embroidered dress that embodies the carefree essence of spring and summer. The delicate blooms, lightweight fabric, and soft pastel hue evoke a sense of whimsy and romance. To elongate your legs and create balance, pair the dress with neutral heels in shades like nude or champagne.
Complete the look by adopting a light pink makeup palette that harmonizes with the dress’s colour scheme, exuding an aura of refined femininity.
13 – Polka-Dot Dress with Puff Sleeves Paired with Black heels
A nighttime event calls for a look that’s both playful and elegant. The combination of whimsical flair with timeless sophistication makes this ensemble stand out. The polka-dot dress with long puff sleeves is a delightful choice, which pairs perfectly with black heels to create a sophisticated and stylish appearance. A sleek ponytail and accompanying bag add the finishing touches, giving the overall look a polished sheen.
Additionally, the option of a long-sleeved dress offers coverage while still exuding chic appeal.
12 – Green floor-length dress paired with silver heels
For a spring or summer wedding, this striking green floor-length dress is an ideal choice for the fashion-forward bride. The bold colour adds a playful touch, while its simple silhouette ensures an elegant foundation. Paired with silver heels, the look is elevated to new heights of glamour, making it perfect for the bride who wants to make a statement without sacrificing refinement.
winter & fall outfits
Winter and fall rehearsals often require a wardrobe adjustment to combat the chill. For a stylish and practical approach, opt for darker shades like black, crimson red, and forest green, which provide a sophisticated backdrop for your special evening. If you’re seeking more inspiration, consider exploring winter wedding outfits for brides – a treasure trove of ideas for your own rehearsal dinner attire.
11 – Black Velvet Pantsuit with white heels
Pairing a black velvet pantsuit with white heels creates a stunning and elegant look for fall. The luxurious feel of the velvet adds a touch of sophistication, while the timeless appeal of black ensures the outfit remains chic and relevant. For a finishing touch, consider adding some sparkle with rhinestones or a statement accessory. If you’re looking to take your style to the next level, check out options like the Classic D’Orsay Closed Toe Mid Stiletto Heel Pump ($21.
99) or add some extra glamour with AdGem Adhesive w/12 Rhinestones ($10.95).
10 – Black Sequin Jacket with Red midi skirt
When it comes to adding some flair to your wardrobe, there’s nothing quite like the perfect combination of style and substance. Two of our top picks for making a statement are the High Waist Long Skirt, available for an affordable $29.99, and the show-stopping Sequin Jackets Open Front Blazer Jacket Casual Long Sleeve at $49.99.
Outfits for plus-size women
9 – Off-white knee length dress with Nude heels
Embracing diversity in wedding attire means there are countless options available, regardless of body type. For instance, a plus-size bride could opt for an off-white knee-length dress featuring intricate patchwork on top and a striking bow belt. This unique combination adds visual interest with texture, while the bow belt skillfully draws attention to the smallest part of the waist, crafting an hourglass silhouette that accentuates curves in a flattering way.
8 – Black Long-sleeved Floor Length Dress
For a plus-size bride seeking to create a lasting impression, a floor-length black full-sleeved dress is an excellent choice. The classic design creates a flattering silhouette, while the long hem adds sophistication and poise. The intricate embroidery and long sleeves imbue the dress with elegance and femininity, making it perfect for a fall dinner or special occasion.
To complete the look, pair the dress with elegant heels and understated jewelry, ensuring you feel like the star of the show on your big day.
7 – Sparkly dress with matching clutch
6 – White low-cut dress with a net veil
For plus-size brides seeking a stunning and sophisticated wedding look, consider pairing a white low-cut dress with a net veil. This combination creates a striking ensemble that accentuates the bride’s curves while exuding confidence. The daring low-cut neckline draws attention to the bride’s beautiful neck and shoulders, adding an air of allure to her overall appearance.
Meanwhile, the net veil brings a touch of romance and elegance, making this outfit perfect for a stylish dinner or other formal wedding events. To complete the look, add some high heels and statement earrings, allowing the bride to shine from head to toe.
5 – a flowy printed dress with brown heels
For a carefree and laid-back style, consider donning a flowy printed dress that exudes a playful charm. To add an extra layer of visual interest, select a dress featuring bold and vibrant prints that will catch the eye. Then, to maintain a relaxed atmosphere, complement the dress with comfortable heels and statement earrings that make a fashion statement.
Celebrities on their rehearsal dinner
4 – Amal Clooney
Amal Clooney’s fiery red dress made a lasting impression at her rehearsal dinner, exuding confidence and style. The fitted silhouette of the dress accentuated her curves, while the vibrant colour added a touch of drama to the occasion. Pairing the dress with elegant heels created a harmonious balance that showcased Amal’s fashion sense without overwhelming the overall look. Her bold choice perfectly captures her personal taste and serves as a memorable and fashionable moment in her special day.
3- Zoe Kravitz
Zoe Kravitz’s rehearsal dinner ensemble embodies her effortless coolness and edgy flair. The unconventional pairing of satin bridal shorts and a crystal-embellished crochet dress is a masterclass in fashion-forward thinking, boldly making its mark. This look cleverly nods to the bridal lingerie trend while injecting glamour with the shimmering crystals.
The juxtaposition of silky satin and delicate crochet also alludes to Kravitz’s free-spirited persona, making it a fitting choice for the actress and singer. Ultimately, this outfit serves as a testament to Kravitz’s unwavering confidence in her style and her willingness to take risks with fashion, showcasing her unique perspective and flair.
2 – Hailey Bieber
Hailey Bieber’s white mini satin dress was an impeccable selection for her special occasion. The low neckline added a touch of sensuality, elevating the overall aesthetic to new heights. The luxurious satin material not only contributed to the dress’s glamour but also expertly highlighted Hailey’s natural beauty. A diamond necklace skillfully drew attention to the neckline, further accentuating her features.
This exemplary bridal look beautifully blended classic elegance with modern flair, making it a memorable choice for the big day.
1 – Stassi Schroeder
As Stassi Schroeder prepared to walk down the aisle, she stunned in a breathtaking long white silk gown at her rehearsal dinner. The flowing fabric seemed to glow under the spotlights, accentuating her curves and creating a streamlined silhouette that exuded elegance. A strategic slit added a touch of sophistication, drawing attention to her legs and making her appear even more radiant.
The dress’s classic design and timeless appeal made it an ideal choice for a bride-to-be seeking a refined and understated look. Paired with a pair of high heels that elongated her legs and added height, Stassi’s overall demeanor was nothing short of captivating.
FAQs
Q. What colors can you wear to a rehearsal dinner?
When it comes to rehearsal dinner attire, brides have the freedom to choose any colour that suits their style and personality. Unlike traditional wedding dresses, there are no rigid rules governing the colours of rehearsal dinner outfits, allowing you to express yourself through fashion.
Some popular options include soft hues like white, cream, and blush, as well as metallic shades like silver and gold.
If you want to make a statement, you can also opt for bolder colours like red, blue, green, or yellow. Ultimately, the choice of colour should be based on your personal preference and what makes you feel confident and beautiful.
