Your Breakdown of Wedding Attire
Weddings are a joyous occasion filled with love, laughter, and good food—but they’re also high-stress for less fashion-forward guests. Don’t worry, we’re here to break down 10 popular dress codes and some stunning pieces you can wear!
1. Black-Tie
Black-tie is one of the most popular dress codes around. If you’re heading to a fancier location, black-tie formalwear is usually the norm for guests, meaning men in full suits and women in full-length dresses. This dress code usually come with more stipulations as well, such as accessories and approved colors.
2. Formal (Black-Tie Optional)
You might think formal and black-tie attire are one and the same, but an important distinction separates them. Formal attire is, in fact, formalwear but it also isn’t bogged down with the same rules as black-tie. Think of it as being fancy, but not as fancy as its big brother. (Go ahead, ditch that bowtie!)
3. Cocktail
Cocktail attire is often used interchangeably with semi-formal—but they are different. This dress code is slightly more formal than semi-formal; you might have to show up in a suit, but you’ll have more flexibility with colors and patterns.
4. Semi-Formal
Semi-formal is another rung down the ladder, allowing guests to keep it classy without stuffing themselves into full-blown getups. Women can swap in knee-length dresses, pantsuits, or bolder colors while men can relax in a simple dress shirt and slacks.
5. Beach
Leave that Hawaiian shirt at home! Just because you’re on the beach doesn’t mean your style has to (or should) suffer. Beach dress codes call for dress shirts and flowing skirts, maybe even a nice pair of sandals should the entire wedding take place outside. Unless stated otherwise, beach attire doesn’t always mean casual wear, so make sure to read the invite.
6. Boho Chic
Short for bohemian, boho fashion is all about muted neutrals and comfortable, flowing clothes. You also have the freedom to play with accessories like lace shawls, flower crowns, or even denim jackets. If you’re ever in doubt, message the couple for approval!
7. Western Attire
Round up your best ensembles, cowpokes. Western attire exploded in popularity recently (thank you, social media), and more weddings than ever recreate the scene. Adorable cowboy boots, hats, and floral prints usually make an appearance at this hoedown.
8. Come as You Are
Not every couple concerns themselves with attire, which is where the ever-relaxed “come as you are” dress code fits in. While you don’t want to break out anything too casual, you can rest easy knowing that the couple won’t take offense to the wrong color or pattern.
9. Themed Attire
The fun-loving couples in your life usually opt for a “go big or go home” scenario. We’re talking weddings during the Christmas season or even on Halloween—and that means attire to match. Seasonal receptions often call for themed ensembles. Think red, blue, and emerald for winter weddings or your best costume for Halloween!
10. Garden Party
Garden party themes celebrate the simpler, no-frills aspects of a wedding. You’re looking at a sunny afternoon outdoors with more casual attire like khaki pants or floral prints. It’s still an excuse to get dressed up, but you don’t need to worry about donning a ballgown.
Now that we’ve covered some basics, let’s dive into appropriate attire options for each dress code!
1. Black-Tie—Dress to the Nines
Though it seems a tad daunting, black-tie weddings are one of the easiest dress codes to follow. Your priority is formal attire; think elegant accessories, full-length gowns, and tuxedos. Accessories like purses and socks should also reflect the dress code, so leave the funky prints at home.
2. Formal (Black-Tie Optional)—Make Formal Fun
Now that we know the difference between the two, we know that black-tie optional dress codes provide more flexibility for prints and colors. Opt for formal attire, but men should go against the grain with suit colors and women can incorporate bolder choices like printed dresses or various cuts.
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3. Cocktail—Keep it Classy
Don’t confuse cocktail attire with a free-for-all. While you’ll certainly have more leniency, you’ll still need to dress the part by leaving anything revealing or too casual at home. Your best bet is for options like a jacket and tie or exciting dress styles like knee-length and subtle slits. Don’t forget your accessories and color scheme either, both of which can be a little louder.
4. Semi-Formal—Leave Ties at the Door
Ditch the tie but don’t ditch the class! Your goals are still right there in the name, meaning men should still rock their blazers and printed button-downs while women can dazzle in midi dresses or pantsuits. You can also experiment with different fabrics, such as velvet or silk.
5. Beach—More Relaxed Attire
Beach weddings can make or break your comfort, so dress for the occasion! Leave your tux and gown at home—outdoor celebrations welcome flowy dresses, casual accessories, and linen button-downs. Though you should always opt for a dressier option, you don’t need to worry about that floral maxi dress either.
6. Boho Chic—Floral Prints & Muted Tones
A boho dress code is your time to shine. It’s the perfect place to show off those flowers, ruffles, and long skirts, all of which look like a dream during the reception. Even casual accessories like lace shawls or flower crowns have their place. 
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7. Western Attire—Let Loose and Have Fun
It’s a Western, y’all, and that means flowing skirts and cowboy boots. Ladies can indulge in vintage looks with bold accessories while men are good to go in a pair of dress pants, a button-down, and a big ol’ cowboy hat. Just make sure you check with the bride before any final decisions.
8. Come as You Are—Casual, But Appropriate
The most important thing about this dress code is that you check with the couple beforehand. Come as you are can mean several things; some couples don’t care what you wear while others have a stricter vision in mind. You’re likely good to go with most casual wear but leave that pair of jeans at home.
9. Themed Party—Dress for the Season
It’s pretty hard to muck up a themed dress code, so try not to worry too much! Christmastime weddings call for colors that match the season—light blue and red are your best friends. Luckily for us, Halloween weddings speak for themselves! (If the spooky couple doesn’t want costumes, you can always opt for a darker palette.)
10. Garden Party—Prepare for the Outdoors
Spot of tea, anyone? How about a tea-length dress? Both work great for garden party weddings! Outdoor weddings call for lighter looks and materials alike, so don’t be afraid to grab that khaki. Women needn’t feel burdened by full-length dresses either; knee-length cuts and airy fabrics like silk and lace work just fine too.
