Wedding Attire: The Guest Dress Code Guide
Wedding dress codes – although important – can be tricky to navigate. For the average wedding guest, the lines between black tie, formal, and semi-formal are thin and blurry.
Yet, in order to create the wedding atmosphere the special couple has in mind (and to ensure you’re as confident as possible when you show up for the big day), it’s critical to match the intended dress code as closely as possible.
In this blog, we describe the primary wedding dress codes and make clothing suggestions for both men and women.
Traditional Wedding Dress Codes
White Tie
This is the MOST formal dress code. It is also not very common – so you may never encounter it. Just imagine a wedding ball for British royalty…that’s what we mean by formal.
If you happen to accept a white tie wedding invite, it’s time to bring your A-game! Men are expected to wear tailcoats (a.k.a. tuxedos with tails) and white bow ties. Women generally wear full-length gowns and elegant high heels and jewelry.
Black Tie
A step below a white tie event, a black tie dress code still requires a high level of formality. Men can wear tuxedos WITHOUT tails (and, you guessed it, a black tie instead of white). And women should still wear a full-length gown – albeit, one with a little less grandeur.
Formal/Black Tie Optional
Sometimes, couples will opt for a formal dress code that offers a little more flexibility for guest attire – as the name “Black Tie Optional” suggests.
While men are still encouraged to wear a tuxedo, it’s acceptable for them to opt for a traditional dark suit and white shirt. Whereas, women can show up in either a full-length gown or elegant cocktail dress (still, not too short).
Semi-Formal Wedding Dress Codes
Cocktail Attire
Slowly making our way down to the less formal wedding attire, a cocktail dress code gives guests a little more freedom to pick and choose their outfit. Men can opt for their favorite sport coat or suit-and-tie ensemble. Meanwhile, women should wear a nice dress (knee-length or lower). But, be sure to avoid sundresses. We’re not quite that casual yet.
Dressy Casual/Smart Casual
Alright, now we’re getting into more familiar territory. If your invitation is labeled “Dressy Casual” or “Smart Casual,” opt for clothes you would choose for a fancy dinner date. For men, a sports coat and khakis or chinos are perfect. For women, an elegant wrap dress, midi dress, or jump suit will do the trick. And good news ladies! High heels are no longer required – instead, you can pick a nice pair of wedges or flats.
Casual Wedding Dress Codes
Casual
And we’ve arrived! For a “casual” dress code, guests can feel free to break out their Sunday best. Polos and boat shoes are totally acceptable. But, men should still avoid wearing khaki shorts (unless otherwise specified in dress code instructions). Ladies can pick their favorite sundress and nice sandals.
Beach Wedding Attire
Attending a beach wedding? Weather is going to be the limiting factor. Fortunately, most beach wedding attire falls on the more casual side (meaning, it uses lighter materials). Sundresses, nice shirts, and khaki shorts will most likely be your best bet.
Choosing the Right Wedding Attire
When picking your outfit as a wedding guest, there are a few things you’ll want to consider:
The venue – Is the ceremony indoors or outdoors? What about the reception? Do you get cold easily in air conditioned spaces? Think about what you’ll need in order to be most comfortable in the particular venue.
Time of day – If the celebration will take place outside in the middle of the day during summer, you’ll want to wear something that will keep you cool and comfortable. Or if you’ll be partying late into the night, you may want to consider bringing an extra layer if you naturally get a little chilly when the sun goes down.
The weather forecast – Check the local news or your weather app. Come prepared with a rain jacket, light coat, or heat-friendly clothing. You may even consider bringing a change of clothes in case the weather takes a turn for the worst.
Personal style – Of course, your unique style and preferences should factor into your attire decision. Try to find clothing you would wear again on other occasions.
Invitation and wedding website – Couples will often include guest dress code instructions or suggestions on their printed invitations or wedding website. Before buying a new wedding outfit, first check for recommendations.
Have questions about the dress code? Don’t hesitate to ask the special couple or their wedding planner. More often than not, they would much rather you ask than show up and feel out of place and uncomfortable.
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