Spaghetti straps sequined black party dressHistorically, it was frowned upon to wear black to a wedding, because black is traditionally associated with mourning. It has also been thought to convey a sense of negativity towards the bride and groom. However, this rule is often ignored, and black may be used under certain circumstances. The wedding timeIf the wedding takes place in the morning or early afternoon, it is more appropriate to use lighter colors; black should be avoided. A wedding or evening reception calls for darker tones, more sophisticated suits, and a black dress wouldn't be out of place. SeasonBeing dressed all in black for a winter wedding is all well and good, but a guest should be careful to avoid looking like she's dressed for a funeral. The famous "little black dress" has become common for formal events, and it is fine to wear it for either a winter or summer wedding. To avoid the look of mourning, try adding a scarf or a piece of colorful jewelry. BrideThe most important factor to consider is the opinion of the bride. Taking into account her age and personality, is it likely that she follows the “no black” rule? Many brides today even choose black as their bridesmaid dress color, so it's unlikely to be a problem. However, if doubts persist, there is a simple solution: she wears something else!