Ok so, this post… it’s giving rehearsal. :)
If you’re looking for what to wear to your rehearsal dinner and you need some serious inspo, I’m your girl. You’ve come to THE place to find it. If you can’t discover the the best rehearsal dinner dresses here, I’m not sure what to tell you because I did a lot of digging. Before we get to the dresses, here are some frequently asked questions you’re likely wondering, as I was, when the rehearsal dinner date was approaching.
What does the bride wear to the rehearsal?
If you’re wondering what to wear, the bride typically wears a dress or jumpsuit that is white, champagne, or ivory in color. Do you have to wear white? No, you’re the bride – you do you! But traditionally, it’s a fun way to stand out at the special event.
What happens at the rehearsal?
Now, what exactly will you be doing at the rehearsal? You’ll be doing a run-through of the ceremony with your partner, the bridal party, and other attendants (i.e. flower girl, ring bearer, etc.)
Wear a dress that is comfortable and appropriate for the ceremony, yet dressy enough for the dinner venue where you’ll be heading after the rehearsal is over. Maybe it’ll be a backyard bbq, or perhaps a formal sit-down restaurant, or a fun local pub. Wherever you’re heading, dress to impress – but don’t wear anything super formal just yet. Save that for the big day.
Now you’re likely wondering what I mean by the cutest little white dresses, and I’m about to show you. Here are some examples of what to wear to the rehearsal dinner so you can cross “outfit” off of the list and start counting down to the days. It’s almost here! So exciting.
Let’s get started.
Rehearsal Dinner Dress Ideas for the Bride
1. Ruffle Tie-Strap Midi, $88
Love this one! If you like a tie-strap and a midi length, meet your new fave dress! Get it Lulu’s.
2. Strapless Tiered Midi, $88
This dress is so beautiful and it reminds me of a wedding cake with those sweet midi-length tiers. By Lulu’s.
3. Two-Piece Bridal Jumpsuit in Ivory, $88
Ooh, I love a classic jumpsuit especially this one with a modern two-piece set! By Lulu’s.
4. Flutter Sleeve Midi, $98
Lightweight, soft, sweet, and feminine, this flutter-sleeve midi dress is a dream! By Lulu’s.
5. 3D Flowers Shift Dress with Halter, $69
Adore a retro look? This is perfect for your rehearsal dinner and features a shift style and knee-length hem. By Lulu’s.
6. Jacquard Dress with Ruffles and POCKETS, $69
Yep, this dress is stylish and it has pockets! Cute for summertime. By Lulu’s.
7. Bodycon V-Neckline Dress, $59
Form-fitting with a v-neckline and v back. So cute! By Lulu’s.
8. Strappy Maxi Dress with Bow, $88
Ooh, this one is so fun! A big bow on the front adds to the pretty maxi-length dress with a strappy neckline. By Lulu’s.
9. Embroidered Floral Strapless Midi, $88
This is a pretty embroidered floral print dress with a nice midi length. By Lulu’s.
10. Ivory One-Shoulder Ruffle Jumpsuit, $88
Go modern with this ivory ruffle jumpsuit featuring a chic one-shoulder neckline. By Lulu’s.
11. Casual Puff Sleeve Dress with Pockets, $89
A cute, casual style with puff sleeves and a nice midi length. Yep, and pockets! Get it at Lulu’s.
12. White Midi Floral Lace Dress, $88
I love this allover lace dress and the wide straps! By Lulu’s.
Stylish! This dress is all white with an open back and high neckline. By Lulu’s.
14. Tie Strap Midi with Embroidered Lace Skirt, $88
This pretty tie-strap dress has embroidered lace and mesh. By Lulu’s.
Tips on What to Wear: DOs and DONTs
First, do you have to only shop white rehearsal dinner dresses because you’re the bride? Technically, no – you can wear whatever you want. But most of the time, the bride wants to stand out at the event and, since this is your time to shine, I recommend a white dress whether it be a mini, midi, or maxi length.
I also recommend a jumpsuit, if that’s more your style, or a pantsuit. There are many stylish suit separates available in ivory, champagne, and white.
And since only The Bride gets to wear white, you should rock it as much as possible! 🙌
Suit Your Venue
• If your wedding is being held at a ballroom but you’re having dinner at a casual bar, opt for a casual style, like a mini or midi-length dress. Wear fun accessories with pops of color and wear your hair dressy, but not too formal.
• If your wedding is held at a ballroom and you’re having dinner at a 4-star restaurant, choose a more formal wedding rehearsal dress, such as a midi or maxi-length dress with elegant beadwork or rhinestones. Get your hair and makeup done and wear fancier jewelry and heels.
• If your wedding is super casual, the venue is casual, and the reception dinner is casual, you guessed it! Wear a casual, but cute rehearsal dinner dress.
• If your wedding venue is casual, but the restaurant is mix between moderate to upscale dining, choose a slightly more formal dress.
Don’t Wear Anything Too Formal
Most of all, don’t make the mistake of having your rehearsal dinner outfit look too formal. You’ll be wearing your wedding dress soon enough and you don’t want the rehearsal outfit to steal the show. ;)
TL:DR;
Don’t wear something too formal. Match the formality of the wedding rehearsal dinner location. And wearing your reception dress is perfectly fine, as long as it isn’t too dressy.
I hope this helps you decide what to wear. When in doubt, just ask! Leave any questions or comments in the box below and I’ll swoop in to help.
Have fun!
xo
Emma
P.S. You may also need: Here’s EXACTLY Who to Invite to the Rehearsal Dinner
