We totally understand that knowing what’s appropriate to wear to a wedding can be tricky! Wedding guest attire is often confusing and with all the dress code terminology used these days, it can be hard to decipher what each term really means. We’re here to help! Below, we’re explaining what the most common terms for wedding guest attire indicate you should wear. If you’re shopping for an outfit or seeing what you have in your closet already that might work for an upcoming nuptial celebration, scroll down!
A note for engaged couples: The dress code should be listed in small print at the bottom of your invitation, or if you have a separate card inviting guests to the reception, denote it there. Your invitation designer will be able to help with this! It’s never a bad idea to list the dress code on your wedding website, as well. Whichever dress code you choose, your wedding party’s attire should follow the same dress code, if not one step dressier. Now, onto the wedding guest attire terminology!
Photography// Alisa Sue Photography
White Tie
The most formal of the formals, and the most uncommon for today’s weddings. Those wearing pants should opt for a tuxedo with tails paired with a white cumberbund and, you guessed it, a white bowtie. Those wearing dresses should don a full-length ball gown. You may be able to pass with any floor-length dress, but ball gowns tend to have more structured fabrics and volume through the skirt. Be sure to complete your white tie look with formal accessories like white gloves. Might we suggest a dramatic opera-length silk or tulle glove? Then layer on sparkling jewels for the ultimate glam!
Black Tie
For black tie, you can wear a regular tuxedo paired with, you guessed it again, a black tie. A bow tie is preferable, but you can also pass with a black necktie. A black vest or cummerbund is acceptable here, but avoid other colors. For dresses, you should still choose a formal floor-length gown in any color – except for white. Traditional black tie calls for a full length dress, so you should avoid slits or high-low skirts.
All-Black Black Tie
This dress code is becoming increasingly trendy right now as it allows the newlyweds to take center stage. Guests are expected to wear all black from head to toe. This can get a bit tricky for those wearing suits, so some people opt to wear a white tuxedo shirt. However, we recommend creating definition between your shirt, jacket & tie with different textures. A shiny silk lapel can make your tuxedo jacket stand out from your shirt.
Black Tie Optional or Formal
One step down from black tie, this dress code indicates you should still try to create the look of a tuxedo, but a dark suit paired with a white button-down shirt will be acceptable. You can get a little bit more creative with your shoes – a black velvet loafer can look incredible for a more modern tuxedo look. For dresses, you’ll still need to wear a floor-length evening gown with heels, but black tie optional allows for subtle slits or more creative hemlines in the skirt.
Semi-Formal, Dressy Casual, or Cocktail
All of these terms mean essentially the same thing – you should be dressed for a nice occasion, but you can get more creative in defining what that means to you. For suits, you can get more playful with colors or even introduce a subtle print with your shirt, tie or pocket square. With cocktail attire, ties are actually optional but a suit or sport coat is still preferred. Formal pantsuits, two-piece skirt sets or cocktail dresses work well for this dress code, but keep in mind that the dress length should be just above the knee or longer. Take the time of day into account, as well. Darker fabrics are appropriate for evening weddings, while lighter colors and fabrics are okay for daytime events.
Casual
“Casual” dress often indicates an outdoor affair, so it’s important to consider the weather while still erring on the dressier side. Almost anything goes, but you should still avoid dressing for an everyday outing. We don’t recommend wearing shorts, jeans or athletic shoes. You can wear sundresses, jumpsuits, coordinating skirt sets or casual maxi dresses with sandals or flats, if you aren’t a fan of heels. For those wearing pants, you should pair your khakis or chinos with a nice button-down or polo shirt.
Beach Casual
Jetting off to a destination wedding or attending a ceremony on the beach? If the celebration is in a tropical locale, think of dressing more for a nice dinner on the beach than a pool party. A flowy sundress or a cute skirt with a matching top are perfect. Avoid wearing shorts, but you could pair linen or khaki pants with a light button-down shirt. Embroidered or printed shirts are typically okay as long as the print is not distractingly bold. We love a nice guayabera shirt for a beach wedding! If you don’t feel your outfit is complete without heels, keep in mind that they can make walking in the sand very difficult. Be sure to carry a cute bag with some sandals stashed in case the ceremony site is in the sand.
What not to wear to a wedding: Unless otherwise specified, it is considerate to avoid wearing white – especially if you are wearing a floor length dress. You should also avoid wearing anything resembling the wedding party attire if you happen to know what they’re wearing. Every family is different in terms of what is considered appropriate. To play it safe, avoid wearing anything that you would wear to a nightclub. If you plan to wear a dress that shows some skin with cutouts or a plunging neckline, you may also want to bring a wrap or jacket in case it turns out that’s not the vibe.
A note on jeans and boots: Southern weddings are a little different than most in that it’s not uncommon to see guests wear boots and occasionally, a nice pair of jeans. You may be able to opt for dressy western boots in lieu of dress shoes for Cocktail, Dressy Casual, or Casual events. Jeans are a bit more tricky. They are generally only appropriate for Dressy Casual or Casual. Even if you are wearing boots, you might style them with khakis or chinos instead.
What if there’s no dress code specified? This is where you’ll want to use the venue as a guide for what to wear. A rustic or barn venue typically invites a Casual dress code, while more formal wedding venues, country clubs and hotel ballrooms necessitate Dressy Casual or Cocktail attire at a minimum. If the ceremony is at a church or religious center, you’ll want to forego any Casual attire and choose a Semi-Formal outfit. When in doubt, always err on the dressier side!
