What do I Wear for my Rehearsal Dinner?: Style Guide
Your rehearsal dinner is the official kickoff to wedding weekend — a chance to celebrate with your inner circle, give a toast (or two), and soak in all the love before the big day. Whether you’re dining al fresco at a vineyard, hosting a chic rooftop party, or keeping it cozy at your favorite local restaurant, your outfit should feel effortlessly you. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered with rehearsal dinner outfit ideas for every kind of bride — plus our thoughts on that age-old question: Do I have to wear white?
1. For the Bold, Modern Bride
Featured Look: Dramatic Shoulder White Bubble Mini Dress
Make a statement the second you walk in. This structured mini dress is full of playful volume and fashion-forward flair — ideal if you want your rehearsal dinner look to feel editorial but still bridal. We love it styled with sleek heels and an updo to let those statement shoulders shine.
2. For the Romantic Bride
Featured Look: Shower Me in Roses Mini Dress
Soft, floral, and utterly feminine — this dress is made for the bride who dreams in pastels and lace. The rosette detailing gives it a whimsical touch, while the mini silhouette keeps it fun and flirty. Perfect for a garden dinner, spring celebration, or any bride who wants a fairytale moment before the aisle.
3. For the Chic Minimalist
Featured Look: White Strapless Mini Dress with Bow
Clean lines, timeless shape, and just the right amount of detail — this strapless mini brings effortless elegance with its oversized bow accent. It’s simple yet striking, and a perfect choice if you want something you’ll still love in every photo ten years from now.
4. For the Elegant Bride
Featured Look: White One Shoulder Midi Dress with Bow
A classic silhouette with a modern twist. This one-shoulder midi dress feels elevated and chic with its asymmetrical neckline and oversized shoulder bow. It’s the kind of dress that feels appropriate at nearly any rehearsal dinner venue — from formal dinners to rooftop cocktail hours.
5. For the Glamorous Bride
Featured Look: The Pearl White Formal Dress
Planning a fancier affair? This gown is pure main character energy. With its structured bodice and full-length fit, it offers just the right amount of drama while still feeling bridal. Bonus: It also makes a beautiful option for an elopement or courthouse wedding.
6. For the Romantic Meets Trendy Bride
Featured Look: White Floral Strapless Midi Dress
This one’s for the bride who wants a balance of tradition and trend. With soft floral appliqué details and a classic strapless neckline, this dress is both romantic and cool — ideal for a sunset dinner, winery venue, or even a post-dinner dance party.
Do I Have to Wear White to My Rehearsal Dinner?
Short answer: Nope! Long answer: It depends on how “bridal” you want to feel on the night before you say “I do.”
Many brides choose white for tradition — it visually ties together your wedding weekend and gives everyone a preview of your bridal vibe. But there’s no rule saying you must wear white. Soft pastels, bold florals, metallics, or even a signature color can look just as chic. If white doesn’t feel like you, or if you’ve already worn white for your shower or engagement party, you can always mix things up.
That said… we are a little biased. There’s something so special about wearing white in those joyful moments before your wedding day. It helps you stand out and makes the moment feel even more real. So while you don’t have to wear white — we say lean in if it feels right.
Final Tips for Rehearsal Dinner Dressing
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Consider the backdrop: Think about your venue, the vibe, and how your outfit will look in photos.
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Bring a backup: Weather changes, spills happen, and last-minute swaps are real. It doesn’t hurt to have a second option.
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Own your moment: Whether you wear white, ivory, or your wedding colors, choose something that makes you feel confident and excited for the day ahead.
Shop Rehearsal Dinner Dresses
Explore our full collection of bridal dresses perfect for rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, and everything in between. Each style is carefully curated to make you feel like the main character — because you are.
