Junior Rasmussen
Knowing what to wear to a wedding can be tricky, and it's a common question for guests. The most important factor to consider is the dress code, which is usually included on the invitation or wedding website. The most common dress codes are white tie, black tie, black-tie optional, formal, cocktail, semi-formal, and casual. The time of day, season, and location of the wedding can also give insight into what to wear. For example, outdoor weddings will have a different vibe than formal church weddings. It's also important to consider the colour of your outfit and the type of accessories you'll need.
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What You'll Learn
Dress codes: black tie, white tie, casual, semi-formal, formal, etc
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, it's important to consider the location, weather, and what you know about the couple getting married. If you're unsure, don't be afraid to ask the couple or someone in the wedding party about the expected dress code.
Black Tie
Black-tie weddings are the most common formal dress code for weddings. For men, this means a full tuxedo, preferably with patent leather shoes, and a black bow tie. For women, it calls for a floor-length evening gown, although cocktail-length dresses are sometimes acceptable.
White Tie
White-tie attire is the most formal wedding dress code and is reserved for very elegant events. For men, this includes a long, dark tuxedo tailcoat with fabric extensions (known as "tails") that reach to the back of the knee, paired with a white piqué button-down shirt, a white vest, and a bow tie. Women are expected to wear floor-length gowns.
Casual
Casual wedding attire is often associated with outdoor or beach weddings, indicating a more laid-back atmosphere and dress code. While it is still a formal event, jeans, shorts, T-shirts, and sneakers are generally not appropriate unless specifically stated otherwise by the couple. Men should opt for dress pants or khakis with a collared shirt, and women can wear a summer sundress or a floral-printed mini dress with dressy sandals or wedges.
Semi-formal
Semi-formal attire is more formal than office wear but less formal than a formal event. It's important to consider the time of day, with darker, more formal colours and fabrics being more suitable for evening events, and lighter hues and fabrics for daytime weddings. Men can wear a dress shirt and slacks, with the option to add a tie, and women can wear below-the-knee dresses, slip dresses, or a dressy skirt and top.
Formal
Formal attire for men includes tuxedos or dark suits, while women typically wear floor-length gowns or cocktail dresses in formal fabrics and shapes.
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Dress for the weather
Summer weddings can be a sweaty affair, so it's important to choose your outfit wisely. Dark colours and heavy fabrics are a no-go—you'll want to opt for light, breathable materials instead. Linen is a popular choice, keeping you sweat-free and fresh. Go for tailoring in light, neutral, or pastel shades, or try beige or sand shades for something a little different. Navy is always a safe bet, and you can't go wrong with a white shirt. If you're wearing a suit, you could try a wool-linen blend for the perfect combination of strength and breathability.
Footwear is another important consideration. You'll want to avoid sinking into the grass in stiletto heels, so consider a pair of functional wedding guest shoes. Dressy sandals, ballet flats, woven loafers, and espadrilles are all good options. If you want a bit of height, try a wedge or platform with a flat sole.
If you're attending a winter wedding, you'll want to wrap up warm. Jewel tones and deep neutrals are popular choices, with navy and black being foolproof picks. If you want to stand out, try ruby red or emerald green. Layering is key, especially if the wedding is outdoors, so bring an umbrella and a chic topper like a faux fur wrap or wool coat. Velvet is a good choice for winter weddings, as it's both elegant and cosy. You could try a jewel-toned velvet jacket with black slacks, or a full-length velvet gown. If you're not wearing a dress, a sleek, long coat in wool or fur will keep you warm on the way to the venue.
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Dress for the venue
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, the venue is an important factor to consider. The expected attire at a wedding will vary based on the venue, season, time of day, and other factors.
For instance, a black-tie wedding outdoors might require different footwear than one indoors. If the wedding is outdoors, stilettos may not be the best choice, as grass and stilettos don't always go well together. Instead, opt for block heels, wedges, loafers, or sandals with sturdy soles. If the wedding will have a church ceremony, it's a good idea to wear something that covers your shoulders and avoid wearing a hat.
The level of formality of the venue will also impact the dress code. A white-tie wedding is the most formal type of wedding attire and is quite rare. For men, the dress code is strict: a black tailcoat, a white vest, a formal white shirt, and a white bow tie. White gloves can also be worn. Women should wear a formal floor-length evening gown with jewellery, heels, and a clutch.
A black-tie wedding is slightly less formal but still requires formal outfits. Men typically wear tuxedos, and women wear formal gowns that touch the ground or reach the top of the shoes. A black-tie-optional wedding is slightly less formal than a black-tie wedding, and men can opt for a dark suit and conservative tie instead of a tuxedo.
A semi-formal wedding falls somewhere between formal and casual. Men can wear suits with or without ties, and women can wear knee-length or tea-length dresses.
A garden party wedding suggests a level of formality without requiring a tux or gown. Guests can wear knee-length or midi dresses, jumpsuits, or suits in cheerful colours and florals.
If you're attending a wedding at a country club or private club, there may be a dress code, such as collared shirts for men and no shorts or jeans.
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Dress for the season
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, it's important to consider the season. If you're attending a summer wedding, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as chiffon, charmeuse, jersey, crepe, or viscose. Avoid dark colours and heavy fabrics, as these can be uncomfortable in the heat. Instead, go for light and airy dresses or skirts that will keep you cool. For outdoor summer weddings, comfortable shoes are a must. Try dressy sandals, ballet flats, woven loafers, or espadrilles.
Spring is another popular season for weddings, especially for outdoor ceremonies. Choose cool, breezy fabrics and sleeveless or strapless gowns. If you want more coverage, cap sleeve gowns or dresses with three-quarter or butterfly sleeves in lace or sheer fabric can be a comfortable option. For an outdoor spring wedding, a simple silhouette like an A-line gown or sheath dress is a good choice.
Autumn weddings are becoming increasingly popular, and the cooler temperatures call for different attire. If you're attending an autumn wedding, consider a dress in a richer colour palette, such as burgundy or deep forest green. The weather may be cooler, so layer up with a stole, wrap, or bolero if you're wearing a strapless gown. Satin and silk ball gowns and mermaid dresses can be a sophisticated choice for this season.
Winter weddings are often chosen for their budget-friendliness, but they also present an opportunity to experiment with fashion. If you're attending a winter wedding, don't be afraid to have fun with your outfit. For men, a black-tie rig is a sharp and cinematic look. Women can opt for a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit, depending on the formality of the event.
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What colours to avoid
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, it is important to avoid certain colours that could detract from the significance of the day or cause confusion. Here are the colours you should steer clear of:
White and similar shades
White is traditionally reserved for the bride and is therefore considered a no-go for guests. This includes not only pure white but also ivory, off-white, eggshell, beige, champagne, cream, and other super light colours that could be mistaken for white. However, there are exceptions to this rule; for example, if the couple has requested an all-white dress code or if the wedding is themed.
Black
Black has historically been associated with mourning and was traditionally reserved for sombre events like funerals. While this perception has shifted in recent years, especially for evening or formal weddings, it is still generally advised to avoid wearing black to a wedding during the day or if it is a casual affair, as it may feel too heavy or serious.
Bright neon colours
Bright neon colours can be distracting and overwhelming, taking attention away from the couple. It is best to opt for more subdued colours that complement rather than overshadow the wedding party.
Matching the bridal party
It is generally considered a mistake to match the bridal party too closely in colour or style. Bridesmaids' dresses are usually chosen to complement the wedding's theme, and wearing something too similar might cause confusion or even offend the couple. It is a good idea to ask the bride or a member of the wedding party about their colours to ensure you stand out appropriately as a guest.
Overly sparkly or shiny outfits
Outfits that are overly sparkly or shiny can also draw too much attention and detract from the couple. It is best to stick to outfits with pared-back fabrics such as unembellished lace, chiffon, velvet, or crepe.
In addition to these colours, it is generally advised to avoid denim, animal prints, and bright red, as these can be considered too casual or over-the-top for a wedding.
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