After deciding on your wedding dress and bridal party attire, it is important to consider what the guests will wear to the wedding. And of course the overall mood of the event. There are several options for wedding dress codes depending on the formality, location, and time of the wedding. Since making this decision can sometimes seem overwhelming, we wanted to break it down and make it simple for you to feel confident about picking your very own wedding dress code 🙂
Casual
Photography by Julia Liable Photography
A casual dress code may indicate that the wedding is outdoors or on the beach. Tank tops and shorts are too casual unless otherwise noted by the bride and groom.
Men wear dress pants or khaki pants. Shirts should be collared and optionally paired with a sports jacket or sweater for colder weather. T-shirts and jeans are too casual.
Women should wear a summery sundress or something light in the material. Wedges or nice sandals are a perfect shoe to pair with it. Sneakers or flip flops though would not be considered appropriate.
Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual
Photography by George Street Photography
Taking the time of the wedding into account is important for this type of dress code. For daytime or afternoon weddings, consider lighter colors and fabrics. For evening or night time weddings, consider darker colors and fabrics.
Men should wear a suit and tie with colors coordinating to the time of day.
Women can wear a cocktail dress or a nice shirt and top. A sundress would be too casual while a floor-length gown would be too formal and inappropriate. Dresses can be paired with wedges, heels, or flats. The location of the wedding either indoors or outdoors can also help determine the dress and heels.
Black Tie
Photography by More Beatty Photography
This the most formal dress code and is typically reserved for an evening wedding.
Men must wear a tuxedo with a black tie, bow tie, black vest, or cummerbund. Leather shoes are a good option to pair with the tuxedo.
Women can wear a floor-length gown or a dressy cocktail dress. Their dresses should be paired with heels or dressy flats, jewelry, and a clutch purse to pull it all together.
Make sure you relay the expectation and dress code to your guests! This can be done by putting it on your wedding invitation or website. You want to ensure all your guests are comfortable and looking great on your wedding day!
Need more help planning your big day? Contact Magnificent Moments Weddings, we would love to help you make your wedding a day that is true to you!
Joelle