Decoding the Dress Code
Everything you need to know about Wedding Attire Guidelines
I’ve had a LOT of clients recently ask me what they should list on their invitations when it comes to dress code (and YES- you do need to list it on your invite!) When deciding what you want your dress code to be, it’s important to consider your venue, time of day and time of year. These details should 100% influence your dress code decision. Visualize what you want your guests to wear and then specify appropriately. For the less obvious specifications, I suggest adding additional examples on your website to avoid the extra questions from guests.
Wedding guest attire guidelines can be tricky, but I’ll decode the dress codes specifications with descriptions and some visuals to help you decide what is the most appropriate fit for your wedding.
BLACK TIE: After White Tie, this is the next most formal wedding dress code and usually means the wedding is an evening event. Women should wear a formal floor-length gown that does not reveal the ankles at the hem of the dress, but if the wedding seems a bit less formal, a sophisticated cocktail dress may also be acceptable. Women may also wear elegant pantsuits. Men must wear a tuxedo. A black bow tie, black vest or cummerbund, and patent leather shoes are also suggested. For summer weddings, a white dinner jacket and black tuxedo trousers are also acceptable.
FORMAL/ BLACK TIE OPTIONAL: The wording here indicates something slightly less formal than black-tie is acceptable. So, a tuxedo isn't required, but the event is still formal enough for one to be appropriate. The choices are the same as with black-tie: a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit. As far as women are concerned, there's not much of a difference between black-tie attire and black-tie optional attire. Men have the option of wearing a tuxedo, or they can wear a formal dark suit, white shirt, and conservative tie.
COCKTAIL ATTIRE: A small step above semiformal though not as formal as black-tie optional or formal, cocktail attire is a popular dress code choice. It's a balance between elegant and comfortable. Instead of a floor-length dress, women should opt for a tea-length, knee-length, or midi dress. Men are required to wear a suit and tie, regardless of the wedding's setting. The look is classy, stylish and polished
DRESSY CASUAL: I’m not a fan of this terminology. I think it just calls for confusion and requires some work on the guests’ part to figure out what is appropriate. If you go this direction, it’s a good idea to give your guests more info/examples on your website, as this designation calls for guests to take the time and location of the wedding into account. Wear darker, more formal colors for an evening wedding; opt for light colors and fabrics for a daytime event. Try a below-the-knee dress or a dressy skirt and top. An elegant pantsuit is also appropriate. Floor-length gowns would be inappropriate. Pair with heels, nice wedges, or formal flats. If the ceremony is being held outdoors and you'll be walking across a lawn, avoid traditional heels that will likely get stuck in the grass. Men should wear a dress shirt and slacks, dark or light depending on the time of day, with the option to wear a tie.
BEACH / GARDEN / CASUAL: These dress codes typically indicates the wedding will likely be held outdoors or on the beach, meaning the event will be much more laid-back, especially when it comes to attire. A summer sundress is appropriate (just make sure the fabric isn't overly formal). Wedges or dressy sandals are the perfect footwear for a casual wedding, but sandals and sneakers are not. Wear dress pants or khaki pants with a collared shirt. You can add a tie or sports jacket if you'd like, but it's not required. If it's chilly, feel free to add a sweater, as well.
FESTIVE: This dress code is relatively new and will leave many guests scratching their heads. Basically, guests are given the go-ahead to have fun and play with their look. Opt for cocktail-party attire featuring bolder colors and playful accessories. Women should wear a cocktail dress or party dress in a fun color, paired with playful accessories and heels or dressy flats. Men should sport a suit, jazzed up with a bright tie or creative pocket square.
Happy styling!!
