From black tie to casual to cocktail, let’s break down what each wedding dress code term means.
Wedding Attire 101: Breaking Down Wedding Guest Dress Code
Have you ever received a wedding invitation with a dress code and been at a complete loss for what to wear? What’s the difference between formal, semi-formal, and cocktail attire? The last thing you want to do is show up in an outfit that makes you stand out…and not in a good way.
But there’s no need to stress. Our complete wedding guest dress code guide will help you arrive at your next event in style.
The complete guide to wedding guest dress code
From black tie to casual to cocktail, let’s break down what each wedding dress code term means.
White-Tie
Many people think that black-tie is the epitome of wedding guest dress codes. But actually, white-tie wedding attire is the most formal of all dress codes. Also referred to as “full dress”, white-tie events aren’t as common today, but if you get invited to a white-tie affair, you want to be sure you’re dressed to the nines.
To meet this dress code, you should dress in either a tuxedo tail coat, white vest, gloves, and bow tie or a full-length evening gown. If you need help getting some inspiration for a white-tie wedding, take a look at the attire during events like the White House State Dinner or formal balls. Make sure to have some fun with it! You don’t have the opportunity to get this dressed up very often.
Pro Tip: Most people don’t have a beaded ball gown or tuxedo in the back of their closet, so take a look at clothing rental services to save money.
Black-Tie
Black-tie is the next most formal wedding dress code and is slightly less sophisticated than white-tie. Expect to dress in tuxedos or formal gowns. You don’t have to wear full tails with the tuxedo, but a black suit is not appropriate—it must be a tuxedo.
With black-tire dress, don’t be afraid to dress up your outfit with accessories. Think glitz, glam, and class. Consider adding unique cufflinks or sparkly jewelry to really take your outfit up a notch! Just like with formal attire, you can also rent fine jewelry on websites like Rent the Runway, so you don’t have to break the bank for one day.
Formal or Black-Tie Optional
Black-tie optional attire is generally where guests get confused on what’s appropriate to wear. Do you dress for a gala or opt for more cocktail attire? It can go either way! Black-tie optional is considered to be a mix between black-tie and formal. You can wear a tuxedo or any dark suit. Or if you opt for a dress, a floor-length gown, knee-length, or midi cocktail ensemble would be appropriate.
Cocktail Attire
You’ll be relieved to hear that there’s a bit more flexibility with a cocktail attire dress code. Cocktail attire is somewhere in between ‘fancy’ and laid back and is one of the most popular dress codes you’ll come across. A nice suit and tie or a formal dress with a shorter hemline will fit the cocktail attire dress code perfectly.
Semi-Formal
Semi-formal is a bit more of a gray area. It’s considered to be dressy casual, but not too casual.
For reference, cocktail attire tends to be more dressy than semi-formal. Where cocktail-appropriate clothes are more glitzy or stylish, semi-formal can be more structured and subdued. Slip dresses, midi dresses, pantsuits, or a dress shirt and slacks are often seen at semi-formal weddings.
To help choose your outfit, focus on the time of the event. Light colors and fabrics would be appropriate for a daytime wedding, but for a nighttime affair, you may opt for more formal wear. As a general rule of thumb, if you have a gut feeling your outfit is too casual, it probably is.
Resort Casual or Beach Formal
If you see the word “resort” or “beach” you can assume 2 things: casual wear and warm weather. So it’s important to dress appropriately with light fabrics. The last thing you want to do is sweat through your tweed jacket and be uncomfortable all night!
For resort casual or beach formal dress codes, summer dresses or sleek collared shirts are appropriate for guests.
Casual or Daytime Attire
Casual attire does not mean jeans and a T-shirt. There’s flexibility, of course, and you can certainly experiment with different styles, hemlines, textures, and colors. But unless specifically noted by the couple, jeans, shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops are not acceptable. Remember, you’re still attending a wedding, not a casual party. For daytime attire, sundresses, jumpsuits, or business casual attire will fit the bill perfectly!
Colors that you should probably avoid
No matter what the specified dress code is, there are a few colors guests should always avoid wearing. These include:
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- White or ivory: It doesn’t matter what the couple is wearing; wedding guests should avoid white at all costs. A full white outfit or a white dress with patterns is off-limits. The only exception to this rule is if the couple specifically asks guests to wear white.
- Same color as the wedding party: This rule may take a bit of research on your end. Oftentimes, the wedding party will be wearing one of the main colors of the invitations or wedding website. If you know a member of the wedding party, you can also ask them. It’s not the end of the world to wear the same color, but you don’t want to be mistaken for a member of the wedding party.
- Denim: Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake can make it work, but a good rule of thumb is to avoid denim for a wedding. May we suggest a leather jacket or dress instead?
Wedding attire can also be regionally and culturally specific. If you’re not sure, ask the couple—they will be happy to clear up any misunderstandings!
Pull up in style at your next wedding
It’s important to read the fine print on a wedding invitation because there will likely be a dress code for guests to follow. If you’re unsure of what to wear, this wedding dress code guide will help you choose the perfect ensemble. Be prepared to get named best-dressed guest!