If you are looking for wedding guest attire, you can browse the aisles of department stores and online retailers. There are numerous options from designer names like Burberry and Chanel to more casual retailers such as Anthropology and Amazon.
To determine what to wear, consider the dress code of the wedding and the context clues it provides, such as the formality of the invitation, the location, and the time of day. For women, a dressy blouse and sundress are acceptable, while men can choose a dark suit and a casual t-shirt.
Different Dress Codes
The black-tie optional dress code is similar to the black-tie option but is less restrictive. This option is best for weddings at traditional venues, though a black tie is still recommended. Men can also wear suits but can opt for more casual attire like a midi or knee-length dress. In addition to black ties and tuxes, colourful suits and neckties are acceptable. And while a black tie is the best option, creative black tie outfits are equally stylish.
A relaxed wedding dress code is a more recent style that allows guests to wear stylish but comfortable clothing. For instance, if the bride and groom have a beach or outdoor wedding, the guests should dress appropriately for the weather conditions. If the wedding is held in a tropical locale, the temperature can be quite hot and humid. To help avoid feeling uncomfortable, guests should wear comfortable clothing, including sandals and low wedges.
Generally, the dress code for a wedding can vary, ranging from black tie to semi-formal. The most formal weddings are black-tie events. For women, you can wear an elegant floor-length gown or an elegant pantsuit. If you’re attending a wedding somewhere in between, you may get away with a cocktail dress. For men, a tux is necessary, but a white jacket will suffice.
Cocktail attire is the next step up from semi-formal but not as formal as black-tie optional. This type of wedding attire is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Guests should wear a dress or skirt that’s at least knee-length. Men can wear a suit and tie, but they should also keep their clothing conservative. While it’s not necessary to go all out, you still want to look classy, and not go too crazy with the style.
Making a Decision
When deciding on the dress code for wedding guests, consider the theme of the wedding. You can create an entire theme around the dress code, or even request your guests to wear specific colours or styles. For example, a couple may ask for all their wedding guests to wear white to match the theme. This style can be a popular choice for a themed wedding, as it helps to create the desired aesthetic for the wedding. Couples can also create a themed wedding by using pop-culture references to communicate the dress code.
A black tie is also a common option for a black-tie wedding. A black-tie wedding is still formal, so men will likely be wearing tuxedos. Women, on the other hand, will want to wear a dressy cocktail dress or sleek pantsuit. However, they should avoid anything that reveals their underwear or hems higher than their knees. For women, it is fine to wear a skirt or top or a jumpsuit.
When it comes to formality, the evening wedding dress code is the most formal. Women should wear a floor-length gown, but more elegant dresses are also acceptable. Some couples opt for elegant pantsuits and sophisticated cocktail dresses. Men should wear a tuxedo, with matching accessories, or a formal dinner jacket. Men should wear patent leather shoes. If the wedding is in the summer, a white dinner jacket with black slacks is acceptable.
