Prom dresses can be expensive, especially if you only intend to wear them on the night of the prom. Of course, we know it’s worth it anyway to be the belle of the ball. But perhaps you can get more use out of the dress at other events too.
If you’ve been invited to a wedding as a guest, you might be wondering, can you wear a prom dress to a wedding? The answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as that. Read on to learn more about how to appropriately wear a prom dress to a wedding.
How to Wear a Prom Dress to a Wedding
If you’ve already picked out the perfect dress from a timeless prom collection like Sherri Hill’s, you know you’ll look great in it at any occasion. But if you don’t somewhat change up your outfit, you risk looking the same in your prom photos as well as those from the wedding you attend, and nobody wants to mix up the events in their photo albums.
Luckily, it’s easy to adjust your outfit around your dress to give you a special new look for a wedding. An easy option is to style your hair differently for each event, or change your shoes if they are visible beneath your dress.
You can also add a new jacket or wrap on top of your dress, or invest in a change of jewelry. Jewelry in a different color can change the look of your prom dress dramatically. Just make sure that if your accessories are bright or bold they don’t steal the show away from the bride. After all, it’s her special day, not yours. And, always, stick to the dress code.
Can You Wear a Prom Dress to a Wedding Right Away?
Even though you can wear a prom dress to a wedding, you might need to make some adjustments to align your outfit with the wedding’s time and venue.
You will likely receive a dress code alongside your invitation to the wedding, and it’s compulsory that you stick to it. It may list the appropriate colors to wear, the theme to dress to, or the level of formality of the wedding outfits.
Don’t let this concern you. It’s usually possible to add layers and accessories to your prom dress in order to keep to the wedding’s dress code, and we’re here to help.
Colors
First of all, if your prom dress is white, forget it. Only the bride can wear white to the wedding, so unless you’re her, find something new to wear. However, you can wear a prom dress in a rainbow of other colors.
If the dress code provides a list of colors you can wear, and your prom dress fits the bill, you’re sorted. If the color of your prom dress would clash with these, it’s probably worth finding a different option for your outfit.
However, if the color of your prom dress is similar enough, or complementary, you can bring an outfit together with a jacket in the colors of the dress code. Even shoes in the right color can serve the purpose of conforming to the dress code. Don’t be afraid to get creative, but always think about the bride and groom, and their vision for the wedding day.
Black Tie
Black tie is a common choice for a formal wedding, and many couples opt for this. For this dress code, the most appropriate outfits are tuxedos and floor-length gowns.
If the hem of your prom dress sits at your feet, it is likely a perfect gown for a black tie wedding. However, if it sits closer to your knees, it might only be appropriate for a black tie optional event. Short skirts won’t work for a black tie event.
If all that poses no problem, it’s time to consider your shoes and accessories. Opt for something understated yet elegant – solid-color heels, silver or gold jewelry, and a styled hairdo that makes you feel stunning.
Cocktail / Semi-Formal
Semi-formal outfits allow a bit more space for creativity. It’s likely your prom dress will fit this dress code, no matter the style, provided it feels a little more luxurious than your everyday wear. Style it with sparkly shoes and shiny accessories to add some fun to your fit.
Casual
If the dress code is more relaxed, you may feel out of place in a ball gown. However, if your prom dress feels more fun than formal, you may be able to dress it down with a casual jacket and comfortable flats, showing off your style without showing up the bride and groom.
Themed
Some couples choose a themed dress code, especially if their wedding is held on a holiday. You can add sparkles to your prom dress for a New Year theme, or heart shaped accessories for a Valentine’s Day wedding. If the theme is more specific, you might have to get creative, but it’s often possible to use accessories to create an outfit fit for a themed wedding.
So, Can You Wear a Prom Dress to a Wedding?
Oftentimes, you can wear a prom dress to a wedding, provided you’ve studied the dress code carefully and made sure your prom dress fits the theme. Don’t be afraid of accessories to help you out, and you can have a great time making more use of your prom dress at a wedding.

