FAQs
A wedding ceremony is a serious occasion, so you should always dress respectfully: Skip anything too casual (no jeans), too bridal (no formal, white gowns), or too short. "I think a micro mini dress is always too short when it comes to a wedding," says Hurwitz.
What is acceptable to wear to a wedding as a guest? ›
Women should embrace wrap dresses, midi dresses or elegant jumpsuits. For men, if it's a daytime wedding, a light sport jacket, button-down shirt and relaxed chinos fit the bill. In the evening, go for darker colors, as later weddings tend to be more formal.
How do you say dress code in an invitation? ›
Answer this question by stating your dress code in a direct sentence ("The dress code for our wedding is…"). Following that, you can include a brief explanation with attire suggestions and specifics—for example, that your venue requires a jacket and tie or if the ceremony will take place on the beach.
What do you wear to a 4pm wedding? ›
If it's an afternoon wedding, you can go slightly more casual (think maxi dresses and linen suits), while a co*cktail ceremony requires a bit more formality.
What to wear to a wedding after party as a guest? ›
Express your unique style and let loose at the wedding after-party with chic jumpsuits, bold colors & patterns, glamorous embellishments, statement shoes, and eye-catching jewelry! Get ready to look amazing in dressy casual or semi-formal attire for any event.
What colors are not appropriate to wear to a wedding? ›
Traditionally, the only off-limits color for wedding guests has been white, for obvious reasons—no one wants to take attention away from the bride. But times are a-changin'. Now, many people simply don't see wearing white as a big deal. Some brides and grooms are totally cool with it.
What is too casual to wear to a wedding? ›
When choosing what to wear, sometimes it's easier to start with what not to wear: Avoid jeans, shorts, tank tops, and tennis shoes, unless the invitation specifically says otherwise.
What to wear to a summer wedding as a guest? ›
This summer wedding guest dress code is slightly more relaxed, just like the summer season. We're talking tasteful co*cktail dresses or chic skirts and blouses. Colors like navy, beige, or blush are ideal for semi-formal attire. Accessories like a clutch and statement earrings can elevate the look.
How to explain dressy casual for a wedding? ›
It's a way to describe an overall aesthetic that is basically not-all-the-way-formal-but-please-don't-wear-jean-shorts. It's about dressing up what you'd wear casually.
What is another way to say dressy casual? ›
AKA: "Smart casual," "dressy casual," "casual threads," "informally fabulous," "simple and chic." Translation: A suit is shorthand for "I'm professional"; all you have to do is glam it up. Wear red satin heels, a beaded bag, and crystal earrings to finish the job.
Smart casual is professional but a little relaxed - a polished take on more casual pieces of clothing as well as casual or fun items paired back with smarter pieces. Items are typically less structured and the formality downgraded from traditional corporate wear.
What are the best colors to wear to a wedding? ›
Safe Choices. The safest bets are colors that work for almost any type of wedding, though you may avoid them when attending a beach wedding. Navy, black, and charcoal grey fall into the “safe” category – all ideal for an evening wedding or one that has anything from a formal to an informal dress code.
How dressy is a 5 o'clock wedding? ›
The staff suggests that if a wedding is taking place at 4 p.m. or 5 p.m., you should wear something that easily transitions from day to night; any ceremony after 6 p.m. should be strictly co*cktail.
Can I have bare legs at a wedding? ›
I have advised readers that while bare legs are fine even at the most formal events, hosiery also is perfectly acceptable as long as it's skin tone and sheer.
What do you wear to a wedding invitation? ›
Traditional wedding attire wording:
- Black tie (tuxedos and formal gowns)
- Formal, black tie optional (suit and tie and dresses)
- Semi-formal (suit and tie and co*cktail dresses)
- co*cktail attire (suits and party dresses)
- Beach or garden party attire (summer suits and summer dresses)
The colour scheme, when it comes to what to wear, is designed for the bridal party i.e. the groom, groomsmen, bridesmaids, pageboys etc. Unless you're in that bridal party, you'd be best to steer clear of trying to match them. Think of it a bit like a stage show.
What is a standard wedding dress code? ›
Formal Attire Dress Code
What to wear: A tuxedo or dark two- or three-piece suit. Women can choose between a chic, knee-length or midi-length co*cktail dress and a full-length dress. A dressy jumpsuit or pantsuit will also work. Photo by Nicola Dixon Photography via One Fab Day.
What is the smart casual dress code? ›
Smart casual is professional but a little relaxed - a polished take on more casual pieces of clothing as well as casual or fun items paired back with smarter pieces. Items are typically less structured and the formality downgraded from traditional corporate wear.
