The attire for wedding guests can vary depending on the formality of the wedding and the preferences of the couple. What’s the season of your wedding, the location and venue, and the overall style and theme of your wedding? And what is the difference between formal and cocktail attire anyway? Let’s break it all down and find which form of attire guests should wear to your wedding!
Formal or Black Tie Wedding:
For a formal wedding, men are to wear a tuxedo or a dark suit with a white shirt and tie. Women should wear a long gown, a dressy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit.
Semi-Formal or Cocktail Attire Wedding
For a semi-formal or cocktail attire wedding, men typically wear a suit and tie. Women can wear a cocktail dress, a dressy skirt and blouse, or a dressy pantsuit. Because us ladies love out options!
Beach or Outdoor Wedding
For a beach or outdoor wedding, men can wear a linen or cotton suit, or dress pants and a dress shirt with a tie. Women can wear a sundress, a maxi dress, or dressy separates like a skirt and blouse.
Casual Wedding
For a casual wedding, men can wear dress pants or khakis with a dress shirt, or a collared shirt and slacks — sans tie. Women wear a sundress or a skirt and blouse.
Consider the Time of Day and Season
If your wedding is taking place during the warmer months, you may want to consider more casual or light-colored attire, such as sundresses for women and lighter suits or khakis for men. For evening weddings or those during the colder months, you may want to consider more formal attire, such as darker suits or evening gowns.
Take the Venue into Account
The location and venue of your wedding can also help determine the dress code for your guests. If you’re having a beach wedding, for example, you may want to encourage more casual attire, such as sundresses and linen suits. If your wedding is taking place at a more formal venue, such as a ballroom or upscale hotel, you may want to suggest more formal attire, such as tuxedos and long evening gowns.
Is There a Dress Code?
Consider including a dress code on your wedding invitations to guide your guests. Common dress codes include casual, semi-formal, cocktail attire, and black-tie optional. Be specific with the dress code to avoid any confusion among your guests.
If you have a specific style or theme in mind for your wedding, consider providing examples or inspiration on your wedding website or in your invitations. This can help your guests understand the overall look and feel of your wedding and dress accordingly!
Remember, ultimately, it’s your wedding and you should choose the kind of attire guests should wear that fits you and your day. But providing guidance for your guests can help ensure that everyone feels comfortable and confident on your special day. Still not sure? Reach out to your wedding planner for advice on what dress style fits your day best.
Yvonne Goll Photography wedding guests looking incredible at cocktail hour
