12 Wedding Dress Codes Explained & What To Wear To Them
Ah, weddings—the magical land of love and dress codes that sound like a secret language designed to test your sartorial skills.
Before you can sip that first glass of champagne and twirl dramatically on the dance floor, you must first decode what exactly “Beach Formal” or “Festive” means.
Fear not! I’m here to guide you through the fashion minefield of 12 common wedding dress codes. Whether it’s a swanky black-tie soirée or a rustic barnyard bash, you’ll know exactly what to wear—and what fashion faux pas to avoid.
1. Black Tie
When the invitation says ‘Black Tie’, it’s time to channel your inner James Bond or red carpet diva.
This is the moment for sleek, sophisticated elegance. Opt for floor-length ensembles and rich fabrics like velvet or silk.
Anything too casual will stand out, so avoid sneakers or polo shirts.
2. White Tie
White Tie is serious business. Think royal wedding or the kind of soirée where people actually know how to waltz. Gentlemen, prepare to don a tailcoat, white vest and bow tie. Ladies, grace the occasion in a floor-length gown worthy of royalty.
Accessories should be timeless, and gloves are often encouraged—because nothing says elegance like sipping champagne with a perfectly poised hand.
So, polish those shoes and practice your waltz because you’re in for a regal evening.
3. Cocktail Attire
Cocktail attire is where style meets playfulness, with just the right mix of polish and personality. What’s the vibe?
Think sharp suits with an easygoing edge—no tie required. A chic knee-length dress? Always a winner.
Striking that balance between refined and relaxed is what makes cocktail attire so fun.
4. Beach Formal
A beach wedding might sound like an excuse to go barefoot in a swimsuit, but Beach Formal suggests otherwise.
Light-colored suits in breathable fabrics—linen is your best friend. Footwear should be sand-friendly, so trade stilettos for chic sandals or wedges.
Accessories can be playful, reflecting the relaxed setting. And if there’s one golden rule? Avoid stilettos at all costs. Sand is not your ally.
5. Semi-Formal
Too casual and you’ll look underdressed. Too formal, and you’ll look like you misread the invite. The trick? The key is a well-tailored look that feels polished.
This dress code allows for a bit of personality, so don’t be afraid to incorporate subtle patterns or colors.
Strike a balance between refinement and comfort with your choices.
6. Casual
Casual weddings embrace a laid-back vibe, but that doesn’t mean reaching for your favorite hoodie.
Think about well-fitted pieces that feel relaxed. Footwear should strike the perfect balance between style and comfort—because effortlessness shouldn’t look accidental.
After all, you’re here to celebrate, not just passing through on your way to a coffee run.
The golden rule? Casual, yes. Careless, never.
7. Festive
Festive means fun and full of personality. If your outfit doesn’t bring joy, you’re playing it too safe. Play with textures and accessories—this is your moment to stand out.
Just keep it balanced—there’s a fine line between bold and over-the-top.
And if your look outshines the cake, it might be time to tone it down.
8. Tropical
Tropical weddings are all about comfort and a laid-back vibe. A Hawaiian shirt with linen shorts? Perfect. A flowy floral dress?
Always a good idea. Skip the stilettos—sandals or espadrilles make dancing under the palm trees much easier. Accessories? Think shell jewelry.
Fun fact: In Hawaii, the bride often wears a haku lei (a floral crown), symbolizing love and celebration. So why not add a touch of island tradition to your look?
A garden wedding is where romance meets a hint of fairytale charm. Light fabrics and soft pastels blend beautifully with the scenery.
But have you thought about your shoes?
The real challenge is avoiding that dreaded heel stuck in the grass moment. Will you go for flats or risk stilettos and hope for the best?
10. Bohemian
Bohemian weddings invite you to embrace free-spirited fashion.
Flowy fabrics and earthy tones fit the vibe. Loose shirts and layered jewelry work well.
Sandals or boots keep it comfy. Carefree is the goal.
The key is to feel comfortable and authentic of the bohemian style.
11. Rustic
Rustic weddings embrace charm and simplicity.
Checkered shirts, jeans and country-chic dresses in earthy tones fit the vibe. Boots or loafers keep it practical yet stylish.
Accessories like leather or wooden jewelry add a rustic touch.
12. Come As You Are
This one is dangerous. Does it actually mean “wear whatever you want,” or is it a sneaky test to see who understands social norms? The safest move?
A stylish but relaxed look that shows effort without overthinking it.
Because even if the couple insists they don’t care, nobody wants to be the one guest who shows up in gym clothes.