Wedding Dress Code Etiquette
Weddings are joyous celebrations, and understanding the dress code is key to ensuring you feel comfortable and confident. Whether you're attending a black-tie affair or a more casual backyard wedding, the dress code helps set the tone for how formal or laid-back the event will be. As professionals in the wedding industry, we’ve broken down common wedding dress codes so you know exactly what to wear for each occasion.
Black-Tie
Black-tie events represent the pinnacle of elegance, and a wedding with this dress code requires formal attire. Men should opt for a tuxedo, paired with a black bow tie or tie. Women typically wear long evening gowns or a formal jumpsuit. If you're invited to a black-tie wedding, think glamorous and refined. This is your chance to showcase your most upscale attire! Avoid anything too short or casual, and keep accessories elegant and understated. Black tie attire calls for all guests to wear dark, elegant colors such as black, navy, or rich jewel tones. Some black-tie weddings may even request guests to wear all black to create a more cohesive and formal look.
Photographer: Haley Birdsey
Formal
A formal wedding dress code is a step down from black-tie but still calls for refined, dressy outfits. Men can wear a dark colored suit and tie, while women should opt for a floor-length gown or a cocktail dress. For both genders, the focus should be on sophisticated style, with a polished and clean look. Formal weddings are an opportunity to showcase your elegance without the added formality of a tuxedo or an evening gown.
Photographer: Jones Media
Cocktail
A cocktail dress code is perfect for a more relaxed, yet stylish wedding. For women, cocktail dresses or knee-length dresses are ideal, while men can wear a suit, potentially without the tie, depending on the tone of the event. While cocktail attire is formal enough for a wedding, it’s not as stiff as the full formal or black-tie options, allowing for a little more creativity and comfort. When in doubt, keep your look polished but playful, with a well-tailored suit or a chic dress.
Photographer: Our Ampersand Photo
Casual
Casual wedding attire is all about comfort while still being respectful of the event. Men can opt for dress pants and a button-up shirt, possibly without a tie, while women might wear a sundress. While casual attire allows for a bit more freedom, avoid overly casual pieces like flip-flops or jeans, unless specifically allowed by the couple. Instead, choose something simple yet put together that still feels appropriate for the occasion.
Photographer: Jake Barrentine
Traditional
A traditional dress code is more specific to cultural or religious practices. This could include certain formalities such as covering the shoulders or wearing a specific color or fabric. For example, guests attending an Indian wedding may be expected to wear traditional Indian attire. If you're unsure of the requirements, always check with the couple to make sure you follow the dress code while respecting the traditions of the event.
Whether you're a couple currently planning your wedding and figuring out the right dress code for your event, or a guest who needs help decoding a particular dress code, we hope this blog post was helpful!
