How to dress for a Chinese wedding?

Chinese weddings, like Western weddings, are all unique in their own way. Some weddings tend to be more traditional with parades and wedding ceremonies, while others include more contemporary and Western customs. Although Chinese weddings are necessarily a little more complicated for us to understand than traditional Western weddings, it is always easy to find your way around, even if it is your first time!

As a guest, what you wear to a Chinese wedding can be important. That's why we're going to answer the question: How to dress for a Chinese wedding? Through 9 recommendations to be in the dress codes of a traditional Chinese wedding.

1. Don't wear red

Chinese brides usually wear red on their wedding day, so wearing it as a guest will be considered rude. It's a bit like in the West, where it's considered rude to wear white when you're a guest. After all, you don't want to look like you're trying to upstage the bride! Choose a different, more subtle color for your dress, or your shirt if you're a man.

2. Wear warm tones

Purple, pink and peach all symbolize new life and happiness in Chinese culture. Wearing these colors So it indicates that you wish the best for the new union and also helps bring luck and happiness to the new couple. These are also good color choices because they tend to be flattering on many different skin tones and hair colors, and can work during all seasons. Wearing yellow or orange is also considered acceptable.

3. Avoid wearing too much black or white

White and black both symbolize mourning and death in Chinese culture. Wearing these colors to a wedding could bring bad luck to the couple, and is simply considered rude, so they should be avoided. However, you can get away with wearing touches of black or white on your dress, especially if the couple is modern.

4. You can include festive accents and accessories

Small touches of gold, which is a popular color in Chinese culture, can really spice up your look without breaking the dress code. You can also include small touches inspired by Chinese culture in your outfit, such as a mandarin collar on your dress. You can also add accessories from Chinese culture, such as a chinese umbrella or a traditional fan. However, if you overload your outfit with oriental accents, you risk looking like you're trying too hard.

5. The length of the dress depends on the wedding

While some aspects of a Chinese wedding are very traditional, brides still like to be in control of the party. In general, you should check with the couple, if you can, how formal they want it to be before purchasing your dress or suit. Unless the invitation specifically states that it is a very formal event, it is best to choose a skirt length above the knee. If the wedding is very traditional, you will need to check with the bridal party for specific guidelines.

6. Stay stylish

While short dresses may be appropriate, they should still be elegant. Dresses that are too flashy or sexy may be considered inappropriate, just as they would be at most weddings around the world, not just in Chinese culture. And even if the wedding is not particularly formal, you should make an effort to look smart and well-dressed, whether you are a man or a woman!

7. Wear something that represents you well

Especially if you're attending a wedding where you don't know many people, you really need to think about what your outfit says about you. In traditional Chinese culture, how you present yourself can have an impact on your family's honor. While many families are more relaxed these days, you'll still need to think about how to best represent yourself. This means avoiding flashy colors, overly sexy silhouettes, or details that could be perceived as vulgar. Chinese tradition is still considered quite conservative.

8. Sets are just as acceptable as dresses

Some Chinese weddings are not nearly as formal as Western weddings, and it is usually perfectly appropriate to wear a skirt and blouse instead of a qipao, especially if you think you will be more comfortable in it. At some Chinese weddings, you will be a bit snubbed if you dress too formally. Of course, this varies from wedding to wedding, so it is best to check with the bride and groom or someone closer to the party.

9. Make sure your dress stretches

Chinese weddings are known for their endless buffets, and you’ll have to try at least every dish. If you wear something too tight around the middle, you might regret it by the end of the night! Draped fabrics are a great choice because not only do they look elegant, but they cover problem areas without restricting your movement.

You now know what clothes to wear for your next Chinese wedding. You can find on our shop a selection of traditional clothes that will suit you perfectly to be at your best for your future Chinese weddings.