Have you been invited to a wedding this summer? Does it make you wonder…“What should I wear???” Wedding guest attire can vary widely, and understanding some terms like formal, semi formal, and black tie could save you from showing up underdressed—or overdressed. Read on to break down the different styles of wedding guest attire, what they mean, and how to choose the perfect outfit.
Decoding the Five Most Common Wedding Guest Attire Dress Code Terms.
1. Black Tie
Black tie is usually the most formal wedding guest attire . Usually reserved for evening weddings held in elegant venues, such as ballrooms or upscale hotels.
For Men: A complete tuxedo is a must, with a bow tie, cummerbund or vest, and polished black shoes. A colored tuxedo may be an option, but only if it aligns with the couple’s preferences and theme for their wedding.
For Women: Long evening gowns or formal cocktail dresses are ideal. Colors and styling should align with the couples preference and theme. Keep accessories sleek and sophisticated.
2. Formal (or Black Tie Optional)
This style offers more flexibility than black tie while still maintaining a formal tone. It’s a great choice for weddings in upscale settings that don’t require full evening wear. If you’re having doubts about what is appropriate for this one, going with the more formal look is always a safe choice.
For Men: A dark suit with a tie or bow tie works well. A tuxedo is optional but always appropriate.
For Women: Long dresses, elegant & stylish cocktail dresses, or even a dressy jumpsuit are suitable. Accessories can be sophisticated, but you have the option to go bold with accessories too.
3. Semi-Formal
Navigating this attire can be one of the more challenging aspects for wedding guests. Semi-formal strikes a balance between polished and relaxed, this is a common dress code for afternoon or early evening weddings.
For Men: A suit in a black or navy is appropriate, but also neutral or light color is also an option. A tie is recommended but not always necessary, depending on the location of the ceremony and the couples preferences.
For Women: Knee-length dresses, Tea-Length dresses, dressy separates, or a trendy jumpsuit are great choices. Avoid overly casual fabrics like denim or jersey. Choose accessories that are tasteful and not overly flashy.
4. Cocktail Attire
Cocktail attire is dressy but not overly formal, making it perfect for trendy, upbeat wedding venues. The cocktail wedding attire has more flexibility with hemlines, colors, and patterns.
For Men: A tailored suit in any color, paired with a tie or pocket square, works well. A trendy color or pattern would be most appropriate with this attire.
For Women: Shorter dresses, stylish jumpsuits, or a chic midi dress fit the bill. An elegant jumpsuit with bold jewelry could be appropriate as well. Fun accessories will elevate your look with this.
5. Casual
Casual weddings are typically held outdoors or in nontraditional venues, such as barns or beaches. While casual attire allows for more freedom, it’s still important to look polished. Dressing in a business casual outfit is a good guide to follow for this attire.
For Men: Dress pants or chinos paired with a button-down shirt or polo. Jackets are optional but add a polished touch.
For Women: Sundresses, maxi dresses, or dressy separates are perfect. You can swap your pump heels with a pair of sandals. Avoid flip-flops or overly casual pieces.
Choosing the Right Attire for the Venue
The wedding venue often gives clues about the appropriate dress code. Here’s how to align your outfit with the setting:
1. Elegant Venues (Ballrooms or Hotels)
Venues like the Tiffany Ballroom can allow for formal or black tie attire. A polished look with refined details is key—think tuxedos, floor-length gowns, and classic accessories.
2. Outdoor Venues (Gardens or Beaches)
Light fabrics and breezy styles are ideal for outdoor weddings. Opt for colors that complement the natural surroundings and comfortable footwear for uneven terrain. If you are planning an outdoor event (even if just the ceremony) include this on your invitation so that guests can prepare. For us, we recommend listing “Tiffany Outdoor pavilion” or “outdoor Garden terrace” as your ceremony location.
Tips for Standing Out While Following the Dress Code
1. Accessorize Smartly
Use accessories to add personality to your outfit. Statement jewelry, elegant shawls, or pocket squares can elevate your look.
2. Comfort is Key
Choose attire that not only fits the dress code but is also comfortable for the event’s duration. For example, bring a wrap for chilly evenings or comfortable shoes for dancing the night away.
3. Ask If Unsure
If the dress code isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask the couple or consult their wedding website. It’s always better to be prepared than to feel out of place.
The Rising Trend of Coordinated Guest Attire
More and more couples are asking their guests to wear specific colors or styles to create a cohesive look for their wedding. Some couples are utilizing Pinterest to create and share mood boards to share with guests examples of what their wedding vision is, different outfits, color patterns and styles give a visual representation for your guests to refer to. For example, they may request everyone to wear pastels for a spring wedding or jewel tones for a fall celebration, making an overall impact on their wedding theme and even creating more visually stunning photos. This can all create a more memorable experience for the couple and guests alike, however opens the door for potential pushback from guests due to feelings of restriction or their ability to find appropriate attire.
If you’re attending a wedding with a coordinated dress code, try to embrace the couple’s vision. Look for accessible, budget-friendly options, and check the wedding website or Pinterest mood boards for inspiration.
It’s vital to remember, weddings are joyous celebrations, and your outfit is another part of the fun! Whether the dress code is black tie, cocktail, or casual, understanding what’s expected will ensure you show up looking your best. At venues like the Tiffany Ballroom in MA, the setting enhances the elegance of any wedding, so your attire should complement the occasion. Need more Attire ideas? Check out this Wedding Guest Attire Cheat Sheet on The Knot