Have you ever received a wedding invitation that left you completely clueless about the wedding guest dress code? Between "black-tie optional" and "semi-formal," the language can be tricky to decipher. "While many couples would like their guests to arrive in black-tie attire, the most common wedding dress code is formal attire," says Alicia Mae, CEO of the New Jersey-based wedding planning company ILÈ Events.
Formal attire may be the most common, but there are plenty of other dress codes that may appear on a wedding invitation. Formal, semi-formal, and casual are a bit more ambiguous than, say, black-tie, and it can be difficult for guests to settle on the level of formality they want to go for.
Meet the Expert
Alicia Mae is a New Jersey-based wedding planner and the CEO of ILÈ Events. She has planned over 50 successful weddings and events.
Heidi Kallett is CEO ofThe Dandelion Patch, a luxury stationery and invitation boutique in the DC-metropolitan area.
Caitlin Wechtaluk is the owner and designer of Caitlin Creative Works invitations and event branding in Rockville, Maryland.
One of the best ways to decide what to wear is to do some research on the venue. "As a guest, I would first think of the wedding location as the background that sets the tone," Mae says. "A quick Google search of the venue can give you a feel of the wedding style, and the venue will have photos of past weddings that can inspire you."
If you're stressed out about style, we've got you covered with our handy guide. Here are the most common wedding guest dress codes explained so that you arrive appropriately—and stylishly—dressed for the celebration.
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White-Tie
This is the most formal wedding attire possible (think: White House state dinners). Women should wear a formal floor-length evening gown, no exceptions. Pair your dress with jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch. Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, white vest and bow tie, white or gray gloves, and formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords.
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 co*cktail dress may also be acceptable. Women may also wear elegant pantsuits. Men must wear a tuxedo. A black bow tie, black vest or cumme*rbund, and patent leather shoes are also suggested. For summer weddings, a white dinner jacket and black tuxedo trousers are also acceptable.
Formal or 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 co*cktail 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, although Mae says it's more acceptable to wear a dress that shows the ankles (which is not true of a black-tie dress code). Men have the option of wearing a tuxedo, or they can wear a formal dark suit, white shirt, and conservative tie.
co*cktail
A small step above semi-formal, though not as formal as black-tie optional or black-tie, co*cktail attire is a popular dress code choice. It's a balance between elegant and comfortable and typically more formal than a day wedding but more casual than a night celebration. 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. Remember to look classy and polished, but don't wear something overly embellished or fancy that you take away from the newlyweds.
Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual
Part of dressing for a semi-formal or dressy casual wedding is taking the time of the wedding into account. Wear darker, more formal colors for an evening wedding,and 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, however, 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. "Semiformal gives you flexibility on comfort, but be sure not to dress too casual," Mae says.
The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Guest Attire
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 co*cktail party attire featuring bolder colors and playful accessories. Women should wear a co*cktail 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.
Casual
This 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. With that said, jeans, shorts, and tank tops are probably not appropriate unless they're specifically noted as acceptable. 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. Steer clear of any t-shirts or tennis shoes.
Tropical or Destination
Tropical weddings are usually humid and hot affairs, and you have to dress accordingly. Remember, always err on the dressier side of caution. If you're not sure if what you're planning to wear is dressy enough, it's probably not. Upgrade it a notch and you're certain to be just fine. As with a casual wedding, look for cotton sundresses and nice sandals or wedges. If the wedding is being held outside and the weather is blazing, consider topping the look off with a sunhat.
Guayabera shirts almost always count as appropriate wedding attire in the tropics. Known more commonly as "Mexican wedding shirts," these short-sleeved, button-down shirts usually have decorative square pockets, and often have embroidery. They're available in a huge variety of colors and styles. Most designer labels also have their own version of the guayabera if you're looking for something a little fancier.
Although linen shirts and pants are also appropriate for a tropical wedding, be cautious in selecting them when you're traveling. Linen usually wrinkles easily, and there may not be a dry cleaner to press it back out in a more remote destination.
Concept Style/Themed
Some couples are host concept or themed weddings, and they request that their guests follow the theme with their attire. For example, some couples ask for their guests to all wear one color, Mae says. This is especially popular in the instance of an "all-white formal" dress code. It's a stylistic choice that helps the couple create their desired aesthetic. "Another option is inspired looks, like Gatsby or Roc Nation Brunch," Mae says. Guests can look for inspiration from films or celebrities, depending on the theme.
Come As You Are
According to Mae, some couples ask their guests not to fuss about their attire and show up how they see fit and are comfortable. This attire can work for a casual wedding on the beach, she says. This may be confusing to some guests, so take into account what the couple normally wears, the location of their wedding, and the time of day it's taking place to help you decide. "An essential tip is to know yourself as a guest," Mae says. "As the saying goes, 'If you look great, you feel great!' Make sure you’re confident in your attire to not feel under- or overdressed."
Wedding Invitation Attire Wording Best Practices
More and more brides are skippingdress codeson their invitations. We understand if you don't want to add the already-vague "Festive Attire" to the invite, but if you want to avoid guests bothering you with closet questions, you might want to consider paying more attention to what goes on thatinvitation.If you're worried about how to get the dress code across without spelling it out, there are subtle hints you can include. "Guests can better understand how to dress based on the wording, font choices, and colors a bride selects," Kallett says."Any reputable stationer can help guide you through the countless details that will honor your vision and the formality or informality of this important day."
Where to Include the Dress Code
"Invitations are one of the first things guests formally receive about your wedding, so it's the perfect opportunity to set the stage for the look and feel of the celebration you're planning," Wechtaluk says. "Use your invitations as an opportunity to communicate what to expect, from attire to the overall vibe you seek to create for your guests."
Formatting for dress codes
If you are set on a black-tie wedding, consider more customaryphrasing on your invitation. "When hosting a formal affair, it's best to not stray from the traditional etiquette guidelines," Kallett says. "The request line should say something along the lines of 'request the honor of your presence' or 'request the pleasure of your company.' If an invitation is worded 'happily invite you to the best day ever,' it is usually an indication that the event is not formal."
Where to Place the Dress Code Information
"Simply put, a formal affair is after six o'clock and the wordsblack tieor white tie are included on the reception card," Kallett says. If your wedding starts after six, expect guests to come a little more dressed up unless you say otherwise. If you're having an earlier wedding, guests may choose co*cktail or garden attire as their go-to dress.
FAQ
Where can I buy a wedding guest dress?
There is a range of options when it comes to purchasing a wedding guest dress or outfit, from department stores to online retailers. Top choices include Nordstrom, Macy's, Dillard's, and David's Bridal for more formal attire, or places like Anthropologie, Free People, ASOS, or even Amazon for less formal dress codes.
What should I wear to a wedding with no dress code?
If no dress code is indicated on the wedding invitation or by the couple, use context clues to decide what to wear, like the formality of the wedding invitation, the venue, the time of day of the wedding, the season, and the religion of the ceremony. When in doubt, a knee-length co*cktail dress for a woman and a dark suit for a man will usually suffice.
What should I not wear to a wedding as a guest?
First and foremost: don't wear a white dress (unless the couple requests all-white attire as a stylistic choice). Further, avoid matching the colors worn by the bridal party, wearing anything that is too revealing, sexy, or flashy, or opting for clothes that are overly casual, like jeans and sneakers, even at a casual-attire wedding.
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Women should wear a formal floor-length evening gown, no exceptions. Pair your dress with jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch. Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, white vest and bow tie, white or gray gloves, and formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords.
Women should wear a formal floor-length evening gown, no exceptions. Pair your dress with jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch. Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, white vest and bow tie, white or gray gloves, and formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords.
Mentioning a dress code ensures your event stays as formal or as casual as you want, and it's helpful for guests to know exactly what is expected of them for attire.
Avoid sequined dresses and any clothing that will draw attention away from the bride. A wedding isn't the proper time to make a bold fashion statement. Ditch your everyday jeans and tee. Even if the wedding initiation says “casual”, wearing sneakers, t-shirts, shorts, and jeans are never appropriate for a wedding.
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.
Although the phrase may seem mysterious when you see it on an invitation, "after five attire" is actually another way to say "semi-formal." To dress appropriately for after five events, you'll simply take your work-day style up a notch in formality.
The simplest way to tell your guests what they're expected to wear is to put it on the invitation. There is a time-honored glossary of dress-code wording short enough to include on invitations, or on a card inserted with the invitation.
You have the option of requesting that your wedding guests wear a certain color, but you must do it in a kind and courteous manner. This is due to the fact that they will object to being instructed on how to dress. That is why you must ask them respectfully and politely.
Most likely, no one else will notice that your dress is the same as another wedding guest's--unless of course it's lime green with a sequined train or something. And really, we're adults. Wearing the same outfit isn't such a big deal, so no need to let it ruin your night. Compliment her if it comes up.
“Tradition dictates guests avoid wearing red out of fear that it could take attention away from the happy couple,” explains Hurwitz. “Visually, it's quite bold. In a photo, your eye is immediately drawn to the color, especially if it's next to neutrals like white, black, gray, or beige.”
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Professional Wedding Website. We are in favor of keeping it classy and professional, but when it comes to your wedding website, your guests aren't necessarily looking for something fancy. ...
Dirty or wrinkled clothing. Tight-fitting or revealing clothing. Too casual, such as yoga pants, overalls, flip flops or shorts. T-shirts with inappropriate messages or offensive content.
The general rule for dress code basically says not to include a dress code on your main invite. Your guests should be able to assume the level of formally based on the venue and time of day of your event.
Ladies should wear co*cktail dresses, and the gentlemen should wear a suit and tie or a sports coat.” Tip: Wedding attire can be tricky, to avoid confusion in addition to the dress code, let the guests know specifically what they should wear, for example, a suit and tie, tux, formal gown, or floor-length dress.
Classifications are divided into formal wear (full dress), semi-formal wear (half dress), and informal wear (undress). Anything below this level is referred to as casual wear, although sometimes in combinations such as "smart casual" or "business casual" in order to indicate higher expectation than none at all.
What is Semi Formal Wedding Attire? Semi formal wedding attire sits at the sweet spot between understated dressy and elevated casual. It's also commonly referred to as “dressy casual” — which can be viewed as a weekend version of business casual. Think: flowy dresses, simple suit jackets, and timeless silhouettes.
Can you wear a short dress to a wedding? A common question we get, and the answer to it is so simple! You can wear short or long dresses, as long as they are embellished in some way, and could even wear a tailored suit!
Who pays for the wedding dress? This ultimately falls to the bride and her family. They're also expected to cover the cost of the veil, accessories and the rest of the wedding wardrobe, including outfits for the shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, and honeymoon.
co*cktail attire is a smidge more formal than semiformal attire, and is often for weddings held later in the day, while semiformal is usually for afternoon weddings. Avoid a tuxedo and go for a well-tailored suit with a solid shirt—tie optional but encouraged. Take cues from the wedding's location.
Clothing etiquette is defined as 'knowing what is appropriate to wear for particular occasions'. In other words, what you wear is defined by the entertainment. For example: Black is the standard colour to a funeral, as opposed to a bright yellow or pink.
One way to ask about the dress code is to be direct. If you spoke with a recruiter or hiring manager on the phone, you can simply ask them what the dress code is ahead of your interview or the first day of work. If you have already been hired, they might forget to mention the dress code to you.
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Unless you're in that bridal party, you'd be best to steer clear of trying to match them. Think of it a bit like a stage show. The actors, in this case the bridal party, all wear the same colour to identify themselves as being in the cast. They're the ones putting on the show.
Lizzie Post, host of the podcast Awesome Etiquette from the Emily Post Institute, says that no guest should ever feel embarrassed if they happen to wear the same color as the bridesmaids, but they can ask in advance what the colors will be if they're concerned about it.
If you genuinely feel unsatisfied, book a follow-up appointment to try on your dress again. We recommend going alone too so your decision-making isn't clouded by another person's opinion, and you'll be able to have an honest discussion with your bridal consultant.
It's all about mixing and matching to get the perfect outfit for the special day. Whether you're the blushing bride or an ecstatic guest, long skirts and blouses will definitely be memorable wedding looks that're one for the books!
“How about a black-and-white dress?” We advise against wearing white to weddings, but a printed dress with a hint of white or ivory is definitely approved. A black-and-white dress is a classic choice, as long as the pattern isn't too distracting.
Summary. To answer the main question of the article, yes you can wear red to a wedding in most circ*mstances. However, in some situations you may want to check with the marrying couple that red is acceptable to wear as a guest and it won't go against their culture or distract from their big day.
"Anything from a black tie, a black shirt or a black suit is definitely appropriate to wear to a wedding," says Onyx Martinez, Lead Stylist for The Tie Bar. "Wearing black is a way to make you simple yet stylish without commanding large attention that should be saved for the bride and groom."
Semi-formal might be the most common wedding dress code. Think date night at the nicest restaurant in your town. Men should definitely wear slacks and a dress shirt but they can choose if they'd like to wear a tie and sport jacket or not. Women should wear a nice dress, skirt, or pants.
As a general rule, "wearing black is totally acceptable, as the hue is very versatile," Sabatino affirms. However, you should avoid wearing white unless you are told otherwise. That shade, she says, is reserved exclusively for the bride.
Totally fine! Just make sure they're dressy enough for the nuptials. Start with tailored trousers and a polished blouse, or make things easy for yourself by grabbing a matching blazer.
If you're one of the chosen few to be invited, make sure you respond promptly. Many wedding invitations will include a deadline to reply. Prompt RSVPs are important because wedding venues and vendors require a firm headcount ahead of time.
Whether it's a 30th birthday or a wedding, if you're invited to a celebratory party, it's customary for a guest to bring a gift. But if you don't bring one, you aren't breaking any laws. More than likely, you won't be called out for your social faux pas, but it will probably be noticed.
Avoid jeans, shorts, tank tops, and tennis shoes, unless the invitation specifically says otherwise. Sandals are tricky, as some might consider them too casual for an event like a wedding, while others say sandals are the obvious choice for casual beach nuptials.
Our survey showed that short shorts are the most common dress code violation (which also happens to be a dress code rule that only applies to girls). 52.5% of surveyed kids were dress coded for short shorts at least once.
Dress codes specifically target clothes typically worn by females. Boys never get told that their shoulders are showing, or that their shorts are too short. Boys usually wear longer shorts because that's the style.
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.
"We ask that you wear semi-formal attire such as a co*cktail-length dress or dressy separates for women and a suit and tie for men. Please note that the venue does not permit blue jeans or sneakers." "The dress code is Dressy Casual Attire.
This attire is one of the most popular dress codes, and for a good reason. It fits in with almost any wedding venue and is relatively easy for guests to follow. A semi-formal dress code calls for suits for men and co*cktail dresses for ladies.
Dressing modestly essentially means to wear clothing that is not too revealing, and this concept applies to weddings that have formal, black tie, and white tie dress codes. However, if a wedding is held at the beach and the dress code is casual, then this rule doesn't necessarily apply.
Although it's rare, some weddings simply have no dress code at all. If you choose not to have a dress code at your wedding, expect your guests to turn up wearing a mixture of different styles and looks. Most guests will err on the side of caution, and wear something smart.
The wedding colours are for the wedding party, not guests
Unless you're in that bridal party, you'd be best to steer clear of trying to match them. Think of it a bit like a stage show. The actors, in this case the bridal party, all wear the same colour to identify themselves as being in the cast.
If the event is not for a beach wedding, but some hours after lunchtime, the typical dress-code of an afternoon wedding is semi-formal. Consequently, it calls for co*cktail dresses, LBDs or modest party dresses. If the invitation asks for formal attire, go for a co*cktail dress or a dressy LBD.
A smart casual dress code is a great way to encourage guests to look polished without having to go all out with formal attire. Smart casual dress is usually best suited to daytime weddings taking place outdoors.
Semi-formal attire is similar to business casual and slightly less formal than co*cktail attire. Outfit options include button-down shirts, dress pants, and dress shoes, and jumpsuits, tea dresses, and knee-length dresses.
To recap: as long as it's not considered culturally inappropriate or against the dress code, you can wear black to a wedding. Depending on where the couple is exchanging vows, which season their special day is taking place in, and what time of day everything begins, black may or may not be your best color option.
Generally, wearing black to a wedding is appropriate. "Guests can absolutely wear black to a wedding," says Shawne Jacobs, President and Creative Director of Anne Barge. "In the past, black was a color typically worn for mourning.
If you want them to stay within a certain color palette, be sure to list out the acceptable colors and even provide a picture of them! If you want them to avoid certain colors, for example, the bridal colors, so guests don't end up looking like accidental bridesmaids, be clear about that as well.
Is it inappropriate to wear a mini dress to a wedding? Definitely not! Mini dresses are appropriate for casual, co*cktail, and semi-formal weddings. However, for a black tie, white tie, or formal dress code, skip the mini and instead opt for a floor-length gown.
Dressing for a semi-formal wedding also allows for diverse dress lengths, as mini, knee-length, midi, and floor-length frocks are all acceptable depending on the design.
"Miniskirts and floor-length gowns are off limits," says Dupuis. Shopping for semi-formal dresses is all about finding that happy medium. "If you fancy wearing a maxi dress, just make sure the fabric isn't too dressy," the fashion expert says.
Semi Formal Cold Weather: Dress pants, a collared shirt, no tie, a scarf, and a pair of dress shoes. Semi Casual Warm Weather: Nice, clean, jeans, a collared short sleeve shirt, and a pair of comfortable shoes or sandals.
Introduction: My name is Greg O'Connell, I am a delightful, colorful, talented, kind, lively, modern, tender person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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