Wedding Guest Attire Guideline

First of all we will answer the immortal question of all ladies, whether you're allowed to wear white. Well, the wedding etiquette doesn't prohibit it, but we strongly recommend you to leave your white dress for another occasion. You don't want to outshine the bride, and don't want any rumors about you and the dress you've chosen for the wedding. That's why choose your attire according to the requirements written in the invitation letter and avoid white dresses.

The couples always include the details about the wedding dress code in the invitation letters. These details will give you the clue to the right outfit, but you have to understand what's lies behind those words. This is the reason why we've created this guideline.

White Tie

White tie is the most formal wedding dress code. Your choice of what to wear is very restricted.

He should wear a tuxedo, a tailcoat, a white vest and tie. Black shoes and white or grey gloves are also required.

She should wear a formal full length evening gown. The color should be neutral, like black or dark brown.

Black Tie

Black tie is also a formal wedding dress code, but it meas that the wedding is going to be an evening affair.

He should wear a black tuxedo or evening jacket and matching trousers. Black tie, black vest or cummerbund and suspenders are required.

She should wear a short cocktail dress or a long evening gown in a dark and neutral color.

Black Tie Optional

Black tie optional suggests that the guests may wear formal attire, but it's not actually required. The guests may choose a more casual attire as well.

He may wear a tuxedo or a formal dark suit and a tie.

She may feel a bit free. She may wear a cocktail dress, an evening gown or dressy separates.

Creative Black Tie

You won't see it very often, however, creative black tie already exists. It requires the same attire as black tie, but the guests are encouraged to add something bright and fun to their attire. For instance, he may wear a colorful tie, shirt or cummerbund. She may choose any black tie attire and make it brighter with colorful accessories, like boas, shawls or jewelry.

Semiformal

Semiformal dress code requires you to wear something that is between formal and casual. Depending on the time of the day, choose the right colors. Darker hues are good for an evening wedding, and light colors and fabrics are good for a daytime wedding. By the way, if the invitation doesn't include any specific dress code, guests should follow semiformal guidelines.

He should wear a suit, a white shirt and a tie. The color and fabrics depend on the time of the day and the season of the year.

She should wear a cocktail dress or a dressy skirt and a top.

Casual

Casual actually means that anything goes well. Casual dress code is usually used for the beach informal weddings.

He may wear a nice button-down shirt, a tie and pants. A jacket or a sweater can also be worn. He will be also fine with khaki shorts or Bermudas and polo shirt.

She should wear a summer dress. Skirt or pants with a fancy blouse are also fine. By the way, the make up should be neutral and everyday.

Beach Formal

The beach weddings may have two options for the dress code – casual and beach formal. If you see the latter, then opt for an attire, that you would wear to a restaurant on a summer day.

He may wear a summer suit with a shirt, pants or khakis and sandals. The tie is not required.

She may wear a summer sundress at knee- or tea-length and flat sandals.