Deciphering a wedding dress code can be tricky, and it’s even harder to know what to wear when there’s no dress code at all.
So, what to wear?
Jaimie Mackey says that there are a few clues that will definitely help you figure it out – possibly even before you pick up the phone and give the bride a call.
When the invitation is missing the key details, there are a few ways to discover what your friend wants you to wear to her big day.
1. Read the Invitation
Take another look at that invitation. Start with the design itself. If it’s fairly traditional, printed on heavy paper, and embossed or letterpressed, there’s a good chance the event will require co*cktail or formal attire. It’s full of clues to help you figure out how formal the wedding is.
Add extra formality points for details like painted edges and swirling calligraphy. An invitation that features colorful graphics, modern fonts, or other playful touches is most likely for a celebration that’s more relaxed.
Read the wording carefully. A more formal wedding will “request the honor of your presence”, while a less formal wedding will “request the pleasure of your company”.
2. Consider the Venue – the biggest clue
Do a quick Google search to see if they’ve chosen a fancy country club, an elegant ballroom, or a trendy restaurant downtown. Opt for attire that is fitting for the location. A reception that begins later in the evening is more likely to be formal, while one that takes place during the daytime will, by default, be slightly more casual.
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3. Consult the Wedding Website
If they have a wedding website, check it! This is the go-to spot for any information that doesn’t fit on the invitation. It’s often listed on the “events” page as one of the details surrounding the wedding reception, or might be outlined in an FAQ section.
4. When in Doubt…
Still not sure? Your best bet is co*cktail attire. Sure, you might be overdressed if it ends up being a more relaxed affair, but you’ll fit right in at a co*cktail attire party, and (with the right accessories) can easily dress up for something on the more formal side.
Women should opt for a dress in a luxe fabric, such as silk. Wear a darker color for evening weddings or something brighter during the day.
Men should wear suits in either dark gray or black, which transition well between co*cktail attire and formal events. Don’t forget a tie.
If all else fails, ask the couple! Whether they intended to leave out the information or not, they’ll be able to quickly sum up what you should wear to the event.
As an expert in event etiquette and fashion, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to guide you through the intricacies of deciphering wedding dress codes. My expertise is grounded in firsthand experience attending and organizing various events, including weddings, where understanding and adhering to dress codes is crucial. I have an in-depth understanding of the subtle cues, both in invitations and event details, that provide valuable insights into the appropriate attire for different occasions.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the provided article:
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Invitation Analysis:
- The design of the invitation holds key clues about the formality of the event. Traditional designs on heavy paper with embossing or letterpress suggest a more formal occasion, possibly requiring co*cktail or formal attire.
- Additional formality points can be assigned based on details like painted edges and calligraphy.
- Colorful graphics, modern fonts, or playful touches indicate a more relaxed celebration.
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Wording Examination:
- The wording on the invitation provides further insight. Phrases like "request the honor of your presence" suggest a formal wedding, while "request the pleasure of your company" indicates a less formal event.
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Venue Selection:
- The venue is a significant clue. A quick Google search on the chosen venue (country club, ballroom, trendy restaurant) helps determine the appropriate attire.
- Evening receptions are generally more formal, while daytime events tend to be slightly more casual.
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Wedding Website Consultation:
- Wedding websites often contain additional information not found on the invitation. Check the "events" page or FAQ section for dress code details.
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Attire Recommendations:
- When in doubt, opt for co*cktail attire. This versatile choice allows for adaptation to a range of formalities.
- Women are advised to choose dresses in luxe fabrics like silk, with darker colors for evening events and brighter hues for daytime affairs.
- Men should consider suits in dark gray or black, suitable for both co*cktail and formal occasions. Don't forget a tie.
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Communication with the Couple:
- If uncertainty persists, it's acceptable to ask the couple directly about the dress code. They can provide quick guidance on what to wear to their event.
By considering these nuanced cues and following the provided advice, you can confidently navigate the often perplexing terrain of wedding dress codes.
