Attending a wedding but not sure what to wear? Check out our comprehensive guide to wedding guest dress etiquette. Learn about common dress codes such as black tie, formal, semi-formal, cocktail, and casual and how to interpret them. So, with our help, you’ll be able to arrive in style and confidently enjoy the celebration. Let’s check with Viva Wedding Photography!
1. What do wedding dress codes mean for guests?
If you’re a newbie in the wedding world, you may be confused about white tie, black tie, or casual dress code. There are so many rules to follow, right? But don’t be afraid! In the section below, we’ll explain each wedding dress code and give you some ideas on how to be the best dress guest ever.
1.1. White-tie
According to traditional wedding guest dress etiquette, white-tie attire is considered the most formal dress code. It’s also known as full dress and is typically reserved for sophisticated occasions such as state dinners, royal banquets, and highly formal weddings.
- For women: Women are expected to wear a formal, floor-length evening gown without exception. Besides, access the look with jewelry, heels, and a chic clutch.
- For men: To comply with the dress code, men should wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, a white vest and bow tie, and either white or gray gloves. Complete the look with formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords.
1.2. Black-tie
This dress code represents the second-highest level of formality for weddings and is usually reserved for evening events.
- For women: This dress code calls for a formal floor-length gown that does not reveal the ankles at the hem. However, for a wedding that seems less formal, a sophisticated cocktail dress is appropriate. Besides, women can also wear an elegant pantsuit as an alternative.
- For men: There isn’t much room for interpretation regarding masculine black-tie wedding guest attire. Men must wear a tuxedo, a black bow tie, a black vest or cummerbund, and patent leather shoes. A white dinner jacket and black tuxedo trousers are also acceptable for summer weddings.
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1.3. Formal (Black-tie optional)
This dress code suggests a level of formality slightly lower than black-tie attire.
- For women: The distinction between black-tie and black-tie optional attire is negligible. The choice may be to wear a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit. However, ankle-revealing dresses are now acceptable in black-tie optional attire, which is not in a strict black-tie dress code.
- For men: Although not essential, tuxedos are still welcome when it comes to what to wear to a wedding as a guest. If you choose to wear a suit, a dark suit, a white shirt, and a conservative tie are all appropriate options.
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1.4. Cocktail
Cocktail wedding attire is considered slightly less formal than black-tie and black-tie optional events. Finding the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, as well as between sophistication and simplicity, is key to following the dress code in this situation.
- For women: Instead of choosing a dress that reaches the floor, women should consider opting for a tea-length, knee-length, or midi dress
- For men: While tuxedos are no longer necessary, men are still expected to wear a suit and tie, regardless of the wedding venue.
1.5. Semi-formal/Dressy casual
When attending a semi-formal or dressy casual wedding, you should consider the timing of the ceremony carefully. It is recommended to wear darker and more formal colors for evening events, while light colors and airy fabrics are best suited for daytime affairs.
- For women: Consider wearing a below-the-knee dress, a dressy skirt paired with a top, or an elegant pantsuit for a semi-formal or dressy casual wedding. Also, choose formal flats, heels, or nice wedges to complete your look. Keep in mind that floor-length gowns might not be expected. Besides, avoid wearing traditional heels that may get stuck in the grass if the ceremony is held outside on a lawn.
- For men: To follow wedding guest dress etiquette, men should wear a dress shirt and slacks in either dark or light colors, depending on the time of day. Besides, wearing a tie is optional, but avoid dressing too casually. The semi-formal dress code allows for some comfort, but it’s important to balance comfort and formality.
1.6. Festive
This modern and playful dress code may leave some guests unsure of what to wear to a wedding as a guest. The goal is to have fun and experiment with your appearance. You may wear cocktail party attire with bright colors and unique accessories to show your style.
- For women: It’s recommended to sport a colorful and beautiful cocktail dress or party dress in a strong color to look their best for this dress code. Besides, make sure to accessorize with colorful jewelry and shoes, such as heels or fancy flats, to complete the outfit.
- For men: A sleek suit is a way to go, but don’t be afraid to add a flash of color, a quirky pocket square, or a bright tie to make the look more lively.
1.7. Casual
Casual wedding attire is the most relaxed dress code on this list. It may be tempting to assume that a casual dress code allows for complete freedom in attire, but doing so easily makes you violate the wedding guest dress etiquette. After all, a wedding is still a formal event.
- For women: Women have the option to wear a summer sundress or a floral-patterned mini dress paired with wedges or dressy sandals.
- For men: Men should consider wearing dress pants or khakis, which can be paired with a collared shirt. They also have the option to enhance their look by adding a tie or a sports jacket.
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2. What not to wear as a wedding guest?
As a wedding guest, you should avoid wearing anything that could distract attention from the bride and groom or disturb the overall tone of the ceremony. Here are some things to stay away from:
- White or ivory attire: Avoid wearing anything in this color scheme because it is traditionally reserved for the bride.
- Jeans or shorts: The casual dress code doesn’t mean jeans and a t-shirt. These outfits are never considered appropriate unless the bride and groom explicitly inform you that they have a casual wedding where jeans and t-shirts are acceptable attire.
- Anything too revealing or provocative: Keep in mind that a wedding is family-friendly, so avoid anything overly revealing or controversial. Not sporting anything too sheer or too short is a good dress etiquette for wedding guests.
- Athletic wear or sneakers: These items are too casual for a wedding and should be avoided.
- Anything too flashy or attention-grabbing: Sequins, animal prints, bright red, and other over-the-top designs can be enjoyable for a night out, but they may not be suitable for a wedding. Of course, you desire to appear presentable, but avoiding stealing the spotlight at someone else’s wedding is important. The primary focus should always be on the bride rather than your outfit.
3. Tips to follow wedding guest dress etiquette
3.1. Pay attention to the wording on the invitation
Paying attention to the text on the wedding invitation is one of the simplest methods to readdress requirements. The dress code is frequently listed at the bottom of the invitation or on a separate card inserted with it. Look for phrases like “black tie,” “cocktail wear,” or “business casual” to get a sense of what to expect. Also, if you’re undecided about what to wear as a wedding guest, don’t hesitate to ask the couple or the nuptial coordinator for advice.
3.2. Consider the nuptial location and bring layers
When attempting to comprehend wedding dress codes, it is critical to consider the time and place of the ceremony. For example, a beach wedding may necessitate more laid-back attire, whereas a wedding in a formal ballroom may necessitate a black tie or formal wear.
Besides, preparing layers is also important, and here’s why. If you know any part of the wedding will occur outdoors, have something to drape over yourself. You never know when a perfect storm cloud may appear, so it’s essential to be prepared and not caught off guard.
Additionally, in some venues, the doors may be left open, or the air conditioner may be set at a low temperature. The last thing you want to be is the person who constantly complains, “It’s a little too cold outside,” while wrapped in a flimsy shawl.
3.3. Research the venue’s dress code guidelines
In addition to standard rules, examining the venue is necessary to determine what to wear to a wedding as a guest. If the event is being held in a religious setting, for example, there may be attire requirements to preserve the holiness of the area.
Furthermore, the dress code may be more formal if the wedding is in a more formal setting, such as a country club or an expensive hotel. Hence, visiting the venue’s website or directly contacting them can provide helpful advice on what to dress as a wedding guest.
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Wearing appropriately for a wedding shows respect for the couple and ensures you feel confident throughout the day. By adhering to the wedding guest dress etiquette, you may avoid fashion faux pas and fully enjoy the festivities. Remember the dress code, the time and location of the event, and choose classy and comfortable attire. Viva Wedding Photography hopes you’ll find the perfect attire to look your best on the big day!
