If you’ve made it to this blog post, we’re willing to bet you received a wedding invitation that contained a line about a certain dress code, but you have no clue what it means. We hope to bring you some reassurance in letting you know that you aren’t alone; this is a very normal experience for wedding guests around the globe. To make things easier on you, here’s a guide on dressing for some of the most common wedding guest dress codes:
White-Tie
The white-tie dress code is the number-one, most formal wedding attire. If you’ve received an invitation with this line written into it, prepare to dress to the nines. This dress code calls for the most elegant garments you can think of: floor-length evening gowns, luxurious accessories, and heels for ladies, and 3-piece tuxedos for men. Make sure you remember your gloves and bowties!
Black-Tie
Black-tie is the second-most formal dress code, and is similar to white-tie in its expectation of evening gowns, tuxedos, and superior elegance. The key difference between black and white tie is that black tie allows men to lose their gloves, and women can opt for a pantsuit or an especially sophisticated cocktail dress.
Formal or Black-Tie Optional
Following black-tie on the list of formality level, formal and black-tie optional dress codes mean that the couple wants their guests to dress in elegant attire, without the expectation of floor-length gowns or tuxedos. Men can rely on a suit and tie; women mainly have the same options as they would for a black-tie endeavor, although shorter dresses are more often appropriate in formal and black-tie optional settings.
Semi-Formal or “Dressy Casual”
The most confusing phrases of all, semi-formal and dressy casual dress codes are often where many guests struggle to understand what they should wear, but there’s no need to fear. These dress codes both call for tea-length or knee-length dresses, or a nice skirt-and-top combination for ladies, while men can wear dress shirts, slacks, and, if they wish, a tie.
Casual
Lastly, casual dress codes indicate a much more laid-back, likely outdoor ceremony. Although casual dress is the most relaxed look of the list, we recommend that you follow basic guidelines for special occasions: avoid any clothes you would wear to exercise or to sleep, meaning you should leave your t-shirts, denim, and sneakers at home. Ladies: casual sundresses, flowing skirts, and dressy sandals are your best friends in casual dress codes. Men: opt for khakis and a collared shirt.
Still on the search for the wedding dress of your dreams? Book your appointment with Mckenzie Jade’s today!