Can you wear white to a wedding if it has a pattern?

The general rule in the UK is to avoid wearing white, ivory or cream as the main colour of your outfit, because that colour is usually reserved for the person getting married. A patterned dress that includes white is usually fine if the pattern is bold, colourful or busy, and the white is just one element among many. Think of a floral print with a white background, a striped dress with navy and white, or a polka dot design where the dots are large and colourful. The key is that the overall look reads as colourful, not bridal. If you are unsure, ask the couple or a member of the wedding party. Some couples are relaxed about white, but many are not, and it is better to be safe. Also consider the style of the dress: a short, casual patterned dress is less likely to cause concern than a long, flowing white gown with a small pattern. If the wedding has a specific dress code, follow that first, and then apply the white rule. When in doubt, choose a different colour altogether.