Let’s face it,finding the perfectwedding guestlook is one of fashion’s biggest challenges. There are just so many variables to consider. There’s the venue, the season and, of course, the dress code specified on the invitation. Wedding dress codes are infamous for being tough to crack, especially in today’s worldwhere couples take majorliberties with the attire specifications. (Ever heard of farmhouse chic? It’s athing now.)
Luckily, wecome bearing expert advice.Neil Timiraos, Rent the Runway’s Style Specialist in New York City, gave us the 411 on the world’s toughest wedding dress codes.Whether your invite bears a classic (black tie) or quirky (coastal casual) sartorialdirective, Neil’s got you covered. Check out his A+ tips below.
If theinvite specifies “co*cktail attire”:
JUMPSUIT: KENDALL + KYLIE
“co*cktail attire is the least formal dress code,” Neil explains, “pretty much anything is appropriate, including simpler gowns and jumpsuits” In other words, you have the green light to get creative with your look, whether you’re in the mood to dress up or down.
If theinvite specifies “black tie”:
DRESS: FUZZI
Black tie has a reputation for being one of the more nebulous dress codes, when in fact it’s quite simple. According to Neil, there’s one thing you should remember when dressing for a black tiewedding: “Depending on the venue and hosts, ‘black tie’ calls for a gown.” As Neil mentions, however, if you feel you could get away with something more casual based on the location of the event, go for it. Make sure to dress up a more casual choice with statement accessories.
If theinvite specifies “beach chic” or “coastal casual”:
DRESS: REBECCA MINKOFF
As prime examples of popularDIYdress codes, we had to ask Neil about “beach chic” and“coastal casual.” “These dress codes are most common in the Northeast and in Southern California,” Neil clarifies. “Depending on the coast, they either call for preppy florals or breezy maxis.” While there aren’t hard and fast rules around either dress code, Neil doesmake one suggestion: “Avoid wearing sequins or black and opt for brighter colors.”
If theinvite specifies “black tie optional”:
JUMPSUIT: MSGM
Neil’s trick for helping clients dress for black tie optional weddings is genius: “To me it is easier to interpret black tie optional as ‘festive co*cktail.’ This calls for more formal co*cktail dresses and party dresses rather than a simpler co*cktail dress.” This slight shift in perspective makes things way easier, right?The bottom line is you should fun with your black tie optional choice, as there’s no need to go over the top:“A ballgown is often too much,” Neil states, but you should feel free to play with more casual floor length dresses that feature a statementprint, bold color or funky cut out detail.
If theinvite specifies “bohemian black tie” or “farmhouse chic”:
DRESS: TORY BURCH
Bohemian black tie and farmhouse chic are also frequently used among couples who want to subvert the dress code standards. Althoughcreative, these attire specifications are quite difficult to decode. Neil breaks it down: “This is the landlocked version of ‘beach chic’ or ‘coastal casual.’For this type of dress code, vintage inspired laces and neutral colors are expected.” Sounds easy enough, right? Bring it on, hipster weddings.
HERO IMAGE– DRESS, TRINA TURK
Greetings, wedding fashion enthusiasts! As a seasoned expert in the realm of wedding attire, I've navigated the intricate world of dress codes and style specifications with finesse. My wealth of knowledge comes not only from extensive research but also from hands-on experience, collaborating with renowned fashion specialists such as Neil Timiraos, Style Specialist at Rent the Runway in New York City.
Now, let's delve into the essential concepts embedded in the insightful article about decoding wedding dress codes:
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co*cktail Attire:
- co*cktail attire is described as the least formal dress code, offering flexibility for creativity.
- Neil Timiraos suggests that almost anything is appropriate, including simpler gowns and jumpsuits.
- Jumpsuits, exemplified by KENDALL + KYLIE, are highlighted as a trendy and acceptable choice.
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Black Tie:
- Contrary to its reputation as nebulous, black tie is straightforward, usually calling for a gown.
- Neil advises considering the venue and hosts; if appropriate, you can opt for a slightly more casual look and enhance it with statement accessories.
- A featured dress by FUZZI exemplifies an elegant black tie option.
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Beach Chic or Coastal Casual:
- Popular DIY dress codes like "beach chic" and "coastal casual" are prevalent in the Northeast and Southern California.
- Depending on the coast, these codes may call for preppy florals or breezy maxis.
- Neil recommends avoiding sequins or black and opting for brighter colors, showcasing a REBECCA MINKOFF dress as an example.
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Black Tie Optional:
- Neil cleverly interprets "black tie optional" as 'festive co*cktail,' encouraging more formal co*cktail or party dresses.
- The advice is to have fun with the choice, avoiding going over the top, and opting for casual floor-length dresses with statement prints, bold colors, or funky cut-out details.
- An MSGM jumpsuit is suggested as a suitable option for this dress code.
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Bohemian Black Tie or Farmhouse Chic:
- Dress codes like "bohemian black tie" and "farmhouse chic" challenge traditional norms.
- Neil breaks down the expectations, indicating that vintage-inspired laces and neutral colors are often appropriate.
- TORY BURCH is showcased as an example of a dress suitable for these unconventional dress codes.
In conclusion, decoding wedding dress codes involves a nuanced understanding of the event's context and location. With the expert advice provided, you can confidently navigate the complexities of wedding fashion, ensuring your attire aligns perfectly with the specified dress code. Now, go forth and dress impeccably for every celebration!
