Guide to Different Wedding Guest Dress Codes

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Ever received a wedding invitation and felt totally clueless about the dress code required? Us too! From black tie to black tie optional, white tie, cocktail and casual - the dos and don'ts of each wedding guest dress code can be tricky to decipher. There's nothing worse than showing up overdressed or, if not worse, underdressed! 

If you're unsure of the difference between things like "semi-formal" and "formal", we're here to help you tackle the meaning of all the most popular wedding guest dress codes. While Black Tie is undoubtedly the most popular choice for couples taking a trip to the alter, there are so many things to consider when selecting the perfect, appropriate wedding guest attire based on the theme or dress code set by the wedded pair-to-be. 

Elements like the destination, venue, and season will all influence the dress code for wedding guests. If the couple has snagged a stunning castle to tie the knot, such as the Recommended Ashridge House in Hertfordshire or Cluny Castle in Aberdeenshire - you might find the most formal dress code on the invitation: white tie! On the other hand, destination weddings, beach venues, or smaller ceremonies may call for something more laid-back.

So, if wedding guest dress codes or formalities have you feeling a little stressed, we're here to help! Our handy guide to all the dress codes you'll likely encounter will ensure you arrive appropriately and stylishly every single time - just in time for wedding season.
 

The 10 Most Popular Wedding Dress Codes, Explained

1. Black Tie
2. Black Tie Optional
3. White Tie
4. Cocktail
5. Casual
6. Garden/ Outdoor
7. Beach
8. Festive
9. Themed
10. Cultural/ Traditional

Black Tie Wedding Guest Dress Code

Black tie is one of the more formal wedding dress codes for guests. While it's a common misconception that black tie means you exclusively have to wear black, that's definitely not the case! The black-tie dress code typically requires men to wear tuxedos and women to wear floor-length gowns. However, formal jumpsuits and women's tuxedos are also great options. Men, in most cases, should stick to a black bowtie, vest and patent leather shoes with a white shirt, while women can choose from various rich, elegant hues (think sumptuous glossy and silky fabrics, too) to make a stylish statement.

Black Tie Optional Wedding Guest Dress Code 

With a black tie optional dress code, there’s flexibility around the formality of traditional black tie attire. This approach acknowledges that not all guests can afford black tie outfits, offering a way to encourage elevated outfits without the pressure of renting or buying a tuxedo or gown. While black tie optional still requires sophisticated ensembles, there’s some leeway. Men can choose a darker suit instead of a tux, and women can opt for cocktail-style dresses alongside the preferred floor-length gowns - yes, showing some ankle is perfectly acceptable in this case!

White Tie Wedding Guest Dress Code 

White tie is the most formal of all wedding dress codes! So, if you've always dreamt of being the bell of the ball - now is your time to shine. When it comes to white tie, think royal wedding vibes! Men will need to wear white bow ties and black tailcoats, while women should opt for full-length evening or ball gowns, accessorised with glamorous jewellery and maybe even some elbow-length gloves. While bare shoulders are totally acceptable throughout the wedding, have an elegant shawl on hand to cover them for dinner. Fancy, right?

Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress Code 

The cocktail dress code strikes the perfect balance between day and night. If you want your guests to dress up for your wedding without the formality of black tie, the cocktail dress code is ideal! This dress code adds a fun, party vibe to weddings, where you can start experimenting with shorter lengths. Typically, cocktail dresses are knee-length or midi, often featuring sparkles or statement designs. For men, cocktail attire means a suit and tie - smart, but not quite as fancy as black tie.

Casual Wedding Guest Dress Code 

So, you've received a wedding invitation with a casual dress code and are wondering if your trusty jeans and nice top combo work for the occasion. Unfortunately, not! Even with a casual dress code, jeans, trainers, shorts, or anything similar are a big no. After all, it's still a wedding. While a casual dress code means the event isn't formal, it still calls for a polished look. Women can opt for a classic slip dress or a cute floral mini dress, while men can choose a crisp shirt and trousers without a jacket or tie, or a laid-back linen suit with a fresh white t-shirt underneath.

Garden/ Outdoor Wedding Guest Dress Code 

Garden and outdoor wedding dress codes embody the essence of spring and summer celebrations. Picture gorgeous florals, elevated sundresses, vibrant shades, beautiful pastels, and light-coloured suits! A garden party dress code is typically semi-formal and fairly flexible - perfect if you enjoy experimenting with colour and print to showcase your style cheerfully and elegantly.

Beach Wedding Guest Dress Code

Beach wedding dress codes capture the relaxed and breezy vibe attached to seaside celebrations. Think flowing maxi dresses, light linens, and airy fabrics in soft, tropical colours for women. Men can opt for smart casual attire like lightweight suits or crisp shirts paired with trousers or tailored shorts. Footwear should be practical yet stylish, with sandals or espadrilles being popular choices. When in doubt, beach weddings make for the perfect opportunity to embrace the casual elegance of the coastal setting while keeping comfort and coolness in mind.

Festive Wedding Guest Dress Code 

Festive wedding dress codes invite guests to embrace the celebratory spirit with vibrant and joyful attire fit for the festive months. You can't go wrong with bold colours, sequins, and fun patterns that exude party vibes. For women, cocktail dresses with playful embellishments or chic separates with some sparkle work perfectly in warm, dark tones like reds, burgundy, maroon and emerald. Men can opt for stylish suits in rich colours or festive blazers paired with dress trousers. Accessories like statement jewellery or a fun tie can add to the festive feel. This dress code is about having fun with your outfit and reflecting the joyous period often attached to December weddings.

Themed Wedding Guest Dress Code

Themed wedding dress codes invite guests to get creative and fully immerse themselves in the wedding’s setting and vibe. Take a Bridgerton-themed wedding, for example - a popular choice for couples obsessed with the series. Women can channel their inner Regency-era elegance with empire-waist gowns, delicate lace details, and romantic accessories like gloves and tiaras. Men can embrace the period style with tailored waistcoats, cravats, and frock coats. Themed wedding dress codes allow everyone to play a part in bringing the wedding theme to life for memorable and visually cohesive occasions. Some common themes you might see are vintage glam, boho-esque, masquerade or even Disney! 

Cultural/ Traditional Wedding Guest Dress Code

Cultural or traditional dress codes are a beautiful way to honour heritage and celebrate diverse customs and cultures. Guests are encouraged to wear attire that reflects the couple's cultural background. For example, at an Indian wedding, women might wear vibrant sarees or lehengas, while men don elegant sherwanis or kurta-pajama sets. If you're unsure where to purchase traditional dress for a wedding, it's always worth checking with the couple as they might be able to recommend a small, local business you can support for authentic garments. If price and accessibility are a factor for guests, the high street is a great place to search, too - South Asian brands like Kanya London are stocked at ASOS.

How to Choose Your Outfit by Wedding Guest Dress Code

While dressing in line with the couple's wedding guest dress code and wishes should be your first and foremost priority, there are so many ways to dress stylishly and appropriately in a way that also feels comfortable for you! For even more inspo, check out our edit of the best wedding guest dresses for all seasons and occasions and the best summer wedding guest dresses - perfect for ceremonies in the warmer months or garden, outdoor and beach affairs.