When deciding what to wear to a wedding, the most important factor is the dress code specified on the invitation or the couple's wedding website. If no dress code is provided, it's best to ask the couple for guidance
Common Wedding Dress Codes and What to Wear
White-Tie:
- Men: Long black tuxedo tailcoat, white vest, formal white shirt, white bow tie, black patent leather shoes.
- Women: Formal floor-length evening gown, elegant jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch
Black-Tie:
- Men: Black tuxedo, tuxedo shirt, stud set and cufflinks, black bow tie, cummerbund or vest, black patent leather shoes.
- Women: Floor-length evening gown or elegant dress
Black-Tie Optional or Formal:
- Men: Tuxedo or dark suit with dress shirt and tie; for daytime, a light sport jacket and relaxed chinos.
- Women: Wrap dresses, midi dresses, or elegant jumpsuits
Cocktail or Semi-Formal:
- Men: Suit or blazer with dress pants and shirt.
- Women: Cocktail dresses or dressy separates
Casual:
- Men: Polo shirts, khakis, boat shoes, or a navy blazer with a button-down shirt and khakis.
- Women: Sundresses, flowy skirts, or dresses with simple accessories. Avoid shorts, flip-flops, or overly casual attire
Additional Tips
- Avoid wearing white or colors close to white to not upstage the bride
- For pants, choose tailored trousers paired with a polished blouse or a matching blazer; jumpsuits are also a stylish option
- Cover shoulders if the ceremony is in a religious or modest setting; bring a shawl or blazer for coverage
- Keep necklines modest and balanced, especially for religious ceremonies; if choosing a plunging neckline, balance with thicker straps or longer skirts
- Match your outfit to the wedding location and season; lighter colors for summer, darker for winter, and consider the formality of the venue
- For colder weather or formal outdoor weddings, wear a stylish coat or cape to stay warm without compromising your outfit
In summary, always start by checking the dress code, then select attire that is respectful of the venue and occasion, stylish, and comfortable. For men, suits or tuxedos depending on formality; for women, dresses or elegant jumpsuits with appropriate accessories and coverage are ideal
