Sunglasses at a Wedding: Yay or Nay?

Everyone has trouble deciding what to wear to a wedding, not just the bride and groom. Aside from the outfit, you might want to consider wearing sunglasses, all dependant on where the wedding is being held and the time of year.  And of course, being such an important event, the kind of sunglasses you choose need to match your clothing.

There are certain times and places where sunglasses are necessary, like on the beach, at funerals, and some say, even at weddings. But this still varies from situation to situation and the best thing to do is interpret each event individually.

In the case of a wedding, whatever you do, try not to wear an outfit and accessories that will eclipse the bride and groom. Ok, maybe just the bride! They’re the ones that need to shine on this day, so wearing something that attracts too much attention, even if it’s just your sunglasses, could be considered an offense.

photo by Eclection Photography. – full wedding here

To Wear or Not to Wear Sunglasses at a Wedding?

As mentioned, the debate of wedding etiquette is always ongoing. Some etiquette experts say do others don’t. In the end, it’s totally up to you, but try to be mindful of each particular scenario, as follows:

1.    The event is indoors

Regardless of the type of event, when indoors, glasses are a no-no. Unless the wedding is at a concert and there are blinding spotlights all over the place, the sensible thing to do is to take your shades off.

2.    The event lacks shade

Outdoor weddings will always have tons of people wearing sunglasses. So, the initial advice is to keep them on. Make sure you keep it classy and dial down the runway sensationalism if the feeling strikes. You’ll want to match what you’re wearing not outshine your dress or suit with some flashy rainbow-colored shades.
Remember that the number one function of sunglasses is to protect your eyes. If there’s absolutely no break from the sun, no patch of shade anywhere, wearing your sunglasses is the best option.

3.    The event is in an exotic location

Destination weddings are getting more and more popular. If you get invited to a wedding in the Philippines, Tenerife, or another super sunny place, you’ve got the green light to wear your favorite sunglasses.
In any case, ensure you take off your sunglasses for photo time. The bride and groom will want to have some nice photo memories so don’t ruin it for them. Show them how much fun their wedding was by allowing them to see your whole range of emotions when posing for photos.

Photo by  Nate Messarra Photography – full wedding here

What Styles of Sunglasses Go Well with Weddings?

Keep it classic! Sure, your dress or wedding outfit needs to be appropriate for the event. We all know there’s a certain style of dress that goes with weddings. And, although you don’t necessarily need to fit into that pattern (this depends on how flexible the bride is), wearing some classy shades will definitely make you stand out enough without overshadowing those two most important people of the day.

A nice pair of aviator sunglasses will go well with your tux or wedding dress, anytime. Browline, oversize, and sunshades without the top rim are in style these days. Just make sure they’re not too bold or colorful, and you’re all set.

If cat-eye sunglasses look good on you, consider finding a uni-pair. Black is always in fashion, so keep it safe with a plain black or dark blue pair of cat-eye sunglasses. The color of your outfit matters too, of course, but black and dark colors, in general, go with anything.

Photo by Mona Ali Photography. – full wedding here 

Deciding whether or not to wear sunglasses at an event, especially a wedding, can be tricky. If there’s no shade to be found, it’s best to wear your sunglasses. If there is no sun or you go inside or it’s time for the group photo, then take them off!