White Tie: The Most Formal
What It Means:
White tie is the most formal dress code, typically reserved for royal events, grand banquets, and ultra-luxurious weddings.
What to Wear:
- Men: A black tailcoat, white waistcoat, white bow tie, formal trousers, and polished black shoes. Accessories may include white gloves and a top hat.
- Women: A full-length evening gown in an elegant fabric like silk or satin. Pair it with opera-length gloves, statement jewellery, and formal heels.
This dress code is rare, but if you’re invited to a royal-style wedding or a high-society event, embrace the glamour!
Black Tie: Classic and Elegant
What It Means:
A step down from white tie but still very formal, black tie is commonly seen at evening weddings in ballrooms, stately homes, and luxury venues.
What to Wear:
- Men: A black tuxedo with a bow tie, formal dress shirt, and polished dress shoes. A cummerbund or waistcoat is optional.
- Women: A floor-length gown or an elegant midi dress. Stick to sophisticated fabrics and complement your look with chic jewellery and heels.
For summer or destination weddings, a black tie optional dress code may allow for slightly more relaxed choices, such as a dark suit instead of a tuxedo for men.
Formal or Black Tie Optional: A Flexible Approach
What It Means:
This dress code gives guests some flexibility. You’re encouraged to wear black tie attire, but a slightly less formal look is also acceptable.
What to Wear:
- Men: A dark suit with a tie or a tuxedo. A bow tie is optional.
- Women: A long gown, formal midi dress, or an elegant dressy jumpsuit.
This is a common dress code for sophisticated evening weddings where couples want to allow for style flexibility while maintaining an elegant feel.
Cocktail Attire: Chic and Polished
What It Means:
Cocktail attire strikes a balance between formal and relaxed. It’s ideal for modern weddings, city venues, or hotel receptions.
What to Wear:
- Men: A dark suit, dress shirt, and tie. You can experiment with subtle patterns and colours.
- Women: A knee-length, midi, or sophisticated maxi dress. Think elegant but not too extravagant—something stylish yet comfortable.
Cocktail attire is fashion-forward, so feel free to play with accessories like statement earrings, stylish heels, and elegant clutches.
Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual: A Balanced Look
What It Means:
Semi-formal (also called dressy casual) means you should dress nicely, but not too formally. This is common for daytime weddings, garden receptions, or smaller events.
What to Wear:
- Men: A dress shirt, trousers, and a blazer. A tie is optional but adds a polished touch.
- Women: A midi dress, flowy maxi dress, or an elegant jumpsuit.
For a daytime semi-formal wedding, lighter colours work well. If the event is in the evening, opt for darker hues and more structured fabrics.
Smart Casual: Relaxed Yet Stylish
What It Means:
Smart casual is one step above casual but below semi-formal. It’s often seen at intimate weddings, outdoor venues, and casual restaurant receptions.
What to Wear:
- Men: A button-down shirt with chinos or smart trousers. A blazer can elevate the look, but ties are not required.
- Women: A chic sundress, stylish separates, or an elegant blouse with tailored trousers.
This dress code allows for more relaxed styling, but avoid anything too laid-back like jeans, flip-flops, or casual trainers.
Casual: Laid-Back & Comfortable
What It Means:
Casual weddings are usually outdoor, beach, or backyard celebrations, where comfort is key.
What to Wear:
- Men: A polo shirt or linen button-down with chinos or khaki trousers. Loafers or dressy sandals are acceptable.
- Women: A sundress, jumpsuit, or an airy skirt-and-top combo. Light fabrics like linen and cotton work best.
Although casual, it’s still a wedding, so avoid anything too sporty or sloppy—no gym wear or overly distressed clothing.
Themed Attire: Fun & Creative
What It Means:
Some couples choose a themed wedding dress code, such as:
- Vintage Glamour (1920s, Old Hollywood)
- Boho Chic (Flowy dresses, floral crowns)
- Tropical or Beach Vibes (Bright colours, Hawaiian shirts)
If a wedding invitation specifies a theme, try to embrace it while staying true to your personal style.
Final Tips for Dressing for a Wedding
- Check the Invitation Carefully – The dress code is often mentioned on the invite or wedding website.
- Consider the Venue & Season – A beach wedding calls for light, breathable fabrics, while a winter wedding may require velvet, wool, or layering.
- When in Doubt, Dress Up – It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
- Follow Colour Etiquette – Avoid white (unless specified), and check if the couple has requested certain colours for guests.
Understanding wedding dress codes ensures that you arrive looking stylish, appropriate, and ready to celebrate! Whether it’s a formal affair or a casual gathering, following the guidelines will help you feel confident while respecting the couple’s vision for their big day.
Are you attending a wedding soon? Let us know your favourite wedding guest outfit ideas in the comments!