From black-tie to casual, here are the attire guidelines for every level of formality. Have you ever received a wedding invitation that left you completely clueless about the wedding guest dress code? Between "black-tie optional" and "semi-formal," the language can be tricky to decipher. But, while formal attire may be a go-to for many couples, there are plenty of other dress codes that can and will appear on a wedding invitation.
For instance, semi-formal and casual attire are also popular in the wedding space, but they're a bit more ambiguous than, say, black-tie, and it can be tough for guests to settle on the level of formality if they don't have a general understanding of each look. Luckily, we're here to help. Meet the Expert. She has planned dozens of weddings and events. We asked Mae to break down each wedding attire guideline, so you can arrive appropriately —and stylishly—outfitted for the celebration.
Below, the most common wedding guest dress codes, explained. A white-tie dress code is the most formal wedding attire possible think: White House state dinners and royal events.
Simply put, women should wear a formal, floor-length evening gown—no exceptions—with jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch.
Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, a vest, a bow tie, white or gray gloves, and formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords. Photo by Hugo Coelho Photography. A step down from white-tie wedding attire, black-tie dress codes usually indicate a formal, evening event. Women should wear a floor-length gown that doesn't reveal the ankles in sumptuous fabrics, like silk and organza. If the wedding seems a bit less formal, however, a sophisticated cocktail dress may be acceptable, but be sure to consult the couple first.
