Formal Wedding Attire: What To Wear

Formal attire for a wedding is a common dress code, but it can be tricky to decipher. It is generally a step down from black-tie attire, which usually indicates a formal, evening event. For women, formal wedding attire includes a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit. For men, a tuxedo is not required, but a formal dark suit, white shirt, and conservative tie are appropriate.

What does formal attire mean for men at a wedding?

Formal attire for men at a wedding is a step down from black-tie, which requires a tuxedo. For formal weddings, men are not required to wear a tuxedo, but can if they prefer. A dark suit and tie are considered appropriate.

The suit should be tailored, and made from luxury fabrics such as rich worsted wools, blended noble fibres like alpaca, silk or cashmere, or a structured cotton or linen blend, depending on the setting and climate. Double-breasted suits and waistcoats are also an option.

When it comes to colour, black, grey, navy, deep greys, burgundy, and dark blue are all excellent choices for a formal wedding. Lighter shades like light green and brown can also work in the right setting. White is always a safe bet for a shirt, along with pale hues of tan, blue and blush.

Finish off the look with dress shoes such as black oxfords or brown derbies. Cufflinks and a pocket square are optional, but recommended.

What does formal attire mean for women at a wedding?

Formal attire for women at a wedding is typically defined as a full-length gown, very fancy cocktail attire, or a glamorous pantsuit. The time of year and venue will also have an impact on the dress code. For example, for summer events, lighter fabrics, brighter colours, and shorter hemlines are common for formal attire. On the other hand, if you're attending a winter wedding, darker shades, thicker fabrics, and longer sleeves and hemlines are more appropriate.

When it comes to the specifics, it's important to consider the fabric of your outfit. Satin, lace, organza, and taffeta are all good choices for a formal wedding. As for colours, it's best to avoid white, ivory, cream, or champagne-coloured dresses and light-coloured suits. You should also avoid anything that may be too casual, such as a cotton sundress or a sports coat with chino pants.

If you're attending a formal church wedding, it's important to make sure your shoulders are covered and that your outfit isn't too revealing or over-the-top. For a formal beach wedding, you can show off your shoulders and play with hemlines a bit more. Lighter colours, pastels, and bright, fun colours are all great choices for this type of event. Just remember to avoid casual dresses and flip-flops, and consider bringing a light layer to wear over your dress if it gets cool by the beach.

For a formal summer wedding, you'll still want to stick to longer lengths and nicer fabrics, but opt for lighter fabrics like lace and silk. A formal fall or winter wedding calls for richer, earthier tones like burgundy, navy, brown, and hunter green. These weddings also give you the opportunity to try a long-sleeved dress or a chic suede or satin pump.

What are some tips for choosing formal attire for a wedding?

When it comes to choosing formal attire for a wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to understand that formal attire is not the same as black-tie attire. Formal wedding attire sits between cocktail attire and black tie on the dress code scale, with more flexibility in terms of colours, embellishments and hem lengths.

• Consider the venue and season: Take into account the location of the wedding and the time of year. For summer weddings, opt for lighter fabrics, brighter colours and shorter hemlines. For winter weddings, go for darker shades, thicker fabrics and longer sleeves and hems.
• Choose a dress or outfit that makes you feel comfortable and confident: While formal attire is the dress code, it's important to pick an outfit that suits your personal style and makes you feel good. This could be a dress, a jumpsuit or a suit.
• Accessorise: Have fun with your accessories! Add a pop of colour with your shoes, tie or jewellery. If the wedding is outdoors, don't forget a pair of stylish sunglasses.
• Avoid white, ivory, cream or champagne colours: These colours are typically reserved for the bride, so it's best to steer clear of them when choosing your outfit.
• Steer clear of casual pieces: Formal attire is more dressy than semi-formal, so avoid clothing that may be too casual, such as a cotton sundress or a sports coat with chino pants.
• Ask the couple if you're unsure: If you're still unsure about what to wear, don't hesitate to reach out to the couple. They will likely appreciate your effort to dress appropriately for their special day.

What are some examples of formal attire for men at a wedding?

Formal attire for men at a wedding doesn't have to be complicated. It's all about nailing the basics: a tailored suit, a dress shirt, and a tie. This dress code calls for a foundation of luxury fabrics and double-breasted fits, and 3-piece suits.

• Fabrics and Colours: Opt for rich worsted wools, blended noble fibres like alpaca, silk, or cashmere. If the setting and climate permit, you can also choose a structured cotton or linen blend. While black, grey, or navy are classic colour choices, you can also explore shades like deep greys, burgundy, navy, or dark blue. Lighter shades like light green and brown can work in the right setting.
• Styling: Consider a 3-piece suit to add depth to your look. Single or double-breasted waistcoats paired with a single-breasted suit are timeless and elegant. Keep patterns to a minimum.
• Shoes: Finish your look with black or dark brown lace-up shoes in plain leather. Avoid patent leather or suede for a formal wedding.
• Accessories: Cufflinks are essential for French cuffs. Go for a classic like sterling silver studs or add a touch of personality with something more unique. Suspenders in a tonal shade, such as dark brown or navy, are also a nice touch. You can add a pop of colour or a bold pattern with your choice of socks or pocket squares.
• Ted Baker London Josh Trim Fit Shawl Lapel Tuxedo in Navy: A timeless navy blue tuxedo with contrast shawl lapels. While it is a pricier option, it can be worn to future weddings and other upscale events.
• SuitSupply Black Roma Suit: This suit features a relaxed fit and concave notch lapels for a refined and put-together look.
• The Black Tux Light Grey Suit: Grey is a great colour choice for formal weddings during the summer. This suit is made from 100% super-fine Italian merino wool and offers both regular and slim-fit pants.
• SuitSupply Navy Herringbone Havana Suit: A dark suit with a subtle pattern, like a stylish herringbone ensemble, is always a good choice for formal weddings.
• Proper Cloth The Allen Tuxedo: You can't go wrong with a classic black tuxedo. Elevate your look with a printed bow tie and a pair of dressy oxfords or loafers.
• Indochino Highworth Suit in Burgundy: A deep burgundy suit is a unique and elegant alternative colour option for formal attire. This suit from Indochino features a geometric diamond weave fabric and includes fully canvassed lapels, bullhorn buttons, and shoulder pads.
• Banana Republic Signature Italian Hopsack Suit: Available in short, regular, and long lengths, this suit is crafted from a beautiful wool hopsack fabric with signature pickstitch details. It is wrinkle-resistant, breathable, and offers stretch for comfort. You can choose from three stylish colours: khaki, navy, and black.
• ASOS DESIGN Skinny Velvet Tuxedo: A black velvet tuxedo is an excellent option for a formal winter wedding. It features smooth satin on the lapels and a stripe running down the sides of the trousers.

What are some examples of formal attire for women at a wedding?

Formal attire for women attending a wedding includes both evening gowns and elegant cocktail dresses. Women are also free to wear jumpsuits, suits, or dressy separates.

For a black-tie wedding, women should wear a floor-length gown in sumptuous fabrics like silk and organza. A sophisticated cocktail dress may also be acceptable, as may an elegant pantsuit.

For a formal church wedding, women should cover their shoulders and avoid anything overly sexy or revealing. A lace short-sleeved tea-length dress is a good option.

For a formal beach wedding, women can show their shoulders and play with hemlines, but the fabric should be lighter and flowier, and you can have fun with colours and prints. Wedges or flats are a good choice for footwear.

For a summer black-tie wedding, opt for lighter fabrics like lace, silk, chiffon or organza, and luxurious but summery colours.

For a fall or winter formal or black-tie wedding, rich earthy tones like burgundy, navy, brown and hunter green are a good choice. Embrace winter fabrics like velvet, satin and taffeta, and try a long-sleeved dress.

Whatever the season or venue, it's important to abide by the dress code on the invitation.

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