What should I wear to a wedding rehearsal or rehearsal dinner?

Short answer

Wear smart casual to a wedding rehearsal or rehearsal dinner. Think tailored trousers or a nice dress, with a jacket or jumper. Avoid jeans and trainers unless the couple says otherwise.

A wedding rehearsal and the dinner that follows are usually more relaxed than the wedding itself, but they are still hosted events. Smart casual is the safest choice. For men, that could mean chinos or dark trousers with a shirt and a blazer. For women, a midi dress, a smart skirt and top, or tailored trousers work well.

Check the venue and the couple's plans. A rehearsal in a church followed by a pub dinner is different from a rehearsal dinner in a fancy restaurant. If the couple has given a dress code, follow it. If not, you can ask the couple or someone in the wedding party.

Comfort matters too. You may be standing around during the rehearsal, so wear shoes you can move in. Layers are useful because venues can be warm or cool. The aim is to look put together but not overdressed. You are not the centre of attention, so keep colours and styles understated.