Attending a wedding as a guest can feel like a fashion emergency, especially if you don't understand the dress code or you're simply clueless about what to wear.

But there's no need to worry. Read on as fashion experts explain how to dress for a wedding as a guest.

"It is ideal when you are invited to a wedding to be told what the attire is and the color scheme," says jewelry and leather accessory designer Diana Zola, founder of Nina Zola. "However, not all brides and grooms put a lot of thought into the attire of guests. With that being said, however, it is still always very important to dress appropriately and to get a feel for the style of the people getting married to have an idea of what to wear."

*Be Camera Ready

Photographers Alycia and Joshua Riley, owners of Mind's Eye Origins LLC, recommend dressing with wedding photos in mind.

"Look well put together," they say. "You're likely going to end up in a photo or two, so show up with some style. The photographers will notice those who look great and may target them for some good photos to deliver after the event."

*Know the Lingo

The fanciest dress code is white tie, which includes a formal gown for a lady and a white tux with tails for a man. Still, that's typically reserved for a state dinner. Next is black tie, which calls for a long, formal gown for women and a tuxedo for men. Formal attire indicates a long dress or a cocktail dress for women and a dark suit or tux for men. A cocktail or semiformal dress code calls for a tea-length dress for women and a suit for men. Evening events in this style are a little fancier.

While most weddings aren't black tie, guests still need to look polished. Zola advises men to wear a dress shirt tucked into dress pants with a belt and dress shoes, noting the look can easily be dressed up or down. She recommends women wear dresses that are knee-length or longer.

While informal weddings don't have a strict dress code, it's considerate to look your best.

"Try to look good," say the Rileys. "It's not a random gathering. It's a celebration, so go for it."

*Fashion Rules

"One golden rule, however, is that you should never wear white; that is the bride's privilege," says Kathryn McDavid, the CEO of lifestyle and e-commerce platform Editor's Pick, who advises wearing neutral colors.

Avoid causal clothes, like jeans, hoodies or athletic wear. Remember, even casual weddings deserve dressier attire.

Next, don't wear anything too trendy. Avoid low-cut attire or anything that exposes a lot of skin. You don't want to stand out, and you definitely don't want to draw attention away from the bride.

Keep footwear comfortable but wardrobe-appropriate, too. That means don't wear platform shoes, sneakers or flip-flops. "Stick to a shoe you can walk around in, or bring a pair of foldable ballet flats in your purse to wear later in the day," says Zola.

Study the wedding venue's layout (long walks, steep stairs, a rock driveway, etc.), and pay attention to the weather.

"Bear in mind that the event may be held outdoors, and even in the summer, a chilly breeze could spoil your day if you are not prepared," says McDavid. "Take a cardigan or jacket; you will probably need it."

*Don't Guess

Not sure what to wear to the wedding? Ask the couple, their family or wedding planner.

"You can always ask the bride and groom what their theme and level of formality is to make sure you do not stick out too much," says Zola.