A Guide to Wedding Dress Codes

If you’re attending a wedding this year and not sure what the dress code means, don’t stress. Read below for a breakdown of common wedding guest dress codes and what they mean.

Black-Tie

Reading that a wedding is black tie often makes people panic, but it can be a fun opportunity to get dressed up! Black-Tie is the most formal of all the dress codes and means the event is likely a formal, evening occasion. The standard for Black-Tie is tuxedos and floor length gowns in darker colors or a nice jumpsuit. If you are wearing a tux, you should wear dark derby shoes or patent leather or velvet loafers. If wearing a dress or jumpsuit, pair it with some heels, dressy flats, or loafers and some fun jewelry. If the invite says Black-Tie optional, you can wear a nice dark suit with a bowtie or a nice tea length cocktail dress instead of a formal gown but avoid anything too short or revealing.

Formal

Formal wedding attire is less dressy than black-tie but more elevated than cocktail. When choosing a formal wedding outfit, you should consider the season and venue to help you choose an outfit that will be appropriate. For formal attire, the standard is a dark suit with a white shirt and tie, a dress, or jumpsuit. You can wear a knee-length, midi, or maxi dress. Because it is less formal than black tie, you can also have fun with brighter colors and patterns. If you are not sure what to wear, you can never be too overdressed when it comes to formal attire. A dark suit or floor length dress are always a safe and appropriate option.

Cocktail

Cocktail attire is one of the most popular dress codes for weddings. Cocktail attire falls between casual and formal, and is meant to bridge the gap between day and night. It is still a nice occasion to dress up and look elegant, but you do not need your fanciest dress or suit. If wearing a dress, opt for a nice knee-length, tea-length, or midi dress and avoid anything too short and revealing. A dressy suit or jumpsuit paired with heels or flats is also an acceptable option. Even though cocktail attire is less formal, and suit and tie paired with dress shoes is still required. However, you could wear a lighter suit for a day wedding or opt for a darker suit for an evening wedding and event. If wearing a dress, the same rule applies. When in doubt, a little black dress paired with nice accessories will always work for a cocktail wedding no matter the venue or time of day.