Decoding the Wedding Dress Code
Everyone can agree that receiving a wedding invitation is exciting. Sending your RSVP back and checking the couple’s registry can seem like small steps to the puzzle until you start to think: what am I going to wear to this wedding? We are here to help you decode the guest dress code.
Nowadays there are so many specific dress codes requested. You may receive an invitation telling you to “dress casual” while another may say “wear formal cocktail attire”. What kind of outfits do you need to have ready in your closet for a busy wedding season? Let us help!
Black Tie
How fancy! A more common choice for an upscale wedding would be black-tie attire. Think of going to a classy and chic event when choosing an outfit. This dress code is “strict” and has less room for interpretation. Women should wear a midi or floor-length dress and men should wear tuxedos. Accessories to enhance your outfit are recommended with this dress code.
When an invitation reads “black tie optional,” things can get tricky. The bride and groom aren’t expecting the fanciest attire, but are still wanting the guests to dress nicely. Think of black-tie optional as an elevated formal choice. Men don’t have to wear a tuxedo, but it would be appropriate to do so. A dark-colored suit with a nice white button-up, paired with a bow tie, would work just as well. Leather dress shoes, as well as loafers, would be appropriate footwear. Women will want to wear a full-length dress with a nicer fabric; staying away from cotton or linen. Stick to solid color fabric and pair the dress with a pair of your favorite statement earrings or clutch purse to match.
Formal
One of the most, if not the most, popular wedding dress codes is formal attire. While you may have attended many weddings with this dress code, it can still be a pain to figure out what to wear. Think of this as a step down from black tie. Men can get away with a suit, or a jacket and tie. This dress code allows women to think outside of the box. Formal can mean anything from a slimming cocktail dress to a bold jumpsuit that you recently picked up. Remember that with formal attire, you can never stand out for being too overdressed. Everyone is going to show up in what makes them comfortable.
Cocktail
Cocktail attire is pretty simple- think of that outfit that will make you feel comfortable while sipping a cocktail. Women have more flexibility when it comes to this attire: shorter dresses are appropriate, as well as bolder colors and patterns. Men can stick to a simple navy or grey suit, or even dress pants with a nice pair of loafers. Men’s tie options can vary in this attire, with valiant colors. Anyone can look good with a drink in their hand at a wedding with a “cocktail attire” dress code.
Festive
This dress code is relatively new and can have you digging through your closet. In this scenario, you have the ability to play with colors. Similar to cocktail attire, but wear a bright color you may never think of putting on. Women can wear short cocktail dresses, paired with over-the-top accessories. Men should wear a suit of any color, the wackier the better. Pair it with a creative pocket square to show your festive side.
Informal / Casual
Casual attire can often be confusing as it is just a step lower than formal attire. At a wedding with the dress code listed as “casual attire,” you can often look overdressed. Showing up in a baby doll sundress or a fun jumpsuit is the way to go. Men can throw on a nice button-down shirt and dress pants – a polo would be acceptable too if the weather is permitting. A floor-length dress and suit may make someone stand out, and not in a good way.
Beach
A destination wedding is an entirely different kind of wardrobe. With a beach wedding, you’ll want to choose your clothes wisely. Remember the heat – if you’re sitting on the sand during a ceremony, we can guarantee that you won’t want to be in a full suit. Khaki pants and a white button-down or polo would be acceptable for the men, and a sweet sundress and sandals for the women. The last thing you will want to do is roll your ankle trying to walk through sand in a pair of stilettos. If you are moving inside for the reception later, maybe pack a change of shoes! Airy fabrics are key!
What matters the most when figuring out what to wear to a wedding is what you are going to feel the most comfortable and confident in. If you look your best, you are going to feel your best. Pack a different pair of shoes if that is going to make you more comfortable. Wear a pair of statement earrings if that will make you feel better in the pictures you take. Enjoy celebrating the happy couple and refer back to this when you may not know what to wear! That’s what we call decoding the wedding guest dress code.
Inspiration: https://www.brides.com/story/wedding-dress-code-explained
Illustration: Emmalee Lawrence