What to Wear to a Wedding as a Guest

Nearly 2 million people get married every year, so you will likely be a wedding guest at some point. The bride and groom just need a dress and a suit, but what are you supposed to wear?

If you are unsure of what to wear to an upcoming wedding, then let us help you out with this quick fashion guide on how to pick the perfect outfit.

According to Dress Code

A good place to start when it comes to choosing your outfit is to follow the dress code that the couple chooses. This is usually indicated on the wedding invitation or wedding website. Here are some of the most common dress codes around today.

White-Tie 

If you get invited to a white-tie wedding, it is time to break out the formal wear. These aren’t as common anymore, but it is still important to know what to wear if you are invited to one.

For men, this includes a dark tuxedo tailcoat with an extension that goes to the back of their knees. They should also wear a white button-down shirt and a white vest and bow tie. The pants should be the same color as the tuxedo, and the footwear is generally black dress shoes.

Women should wear a modest dress that reaches the floor. Many women go all out and wear elegant ballgowns full of shine and sparkle.

Black-Tie (and Black-Tie Optional)

Black-tie weddings are slightly less formal than white-tie weddings. You are still expected to dress a certain way, but you have a little more wiggle room.

Men should still wear a tuxedo, but you don’t have to worry about the tails. Women should still wear a fancy dress, but it doesn’t have to be full of shine and sparkle. 

It is also important to adhere to any color code that is set for a black-tie wedding. Many couples will have certain colors or patterns that are off-limits.

If you get invited to a black-tie optional wedding, then you have even more leeway. For men, this means the option for a tuxedo is there, but a nice suit and dress pants would also be permitted. For women, shorter cocktail dresses are appropriate for a wedding such as this one.

Formal

Formal attire is one of the most common dress codes you see for weddings today. 

For men, this includes a nice jacket and tie or a traditional suit of any modest color. Women can wear a nice dress of any length or even get creative and wear a jumpsuit or pantsuit. 

Colors for formal weddings are typically darker in color. You don’t want to stand out too much in your formal attire.

Semi-Formal

Semi-formal attire is typically seen at outdoor weddings or weddings with a more boho feel.

If you are a man attending a semi-formal wedding, you should still wear nice dress pants, but you can opt for a nice button-up shirt on top without a jacket.

Women can choose a cute dress or jumpsuit in any color. Semi-formal weddings are generally more relaxed and allow you to wear bright, bold colors. We have many wedding guest dresses that would fit into the semi-formal category.

Casual

If you are attending a backyard or barn wedding, then the dress code will likely be casual.

Men will want to stay away from tuxedos or suit jackets. Instead, opt for a blazer and khaki pants to adhere to the casual dress code. Women can stick with a cute dress of any color or pattern (just no white). 

Although the dress code may be casual, it is still important to remember that you are attending a wedding. Make an effort to dress up.

According to Season

Once you know how to follow the dress code, you’ll want to consider the season. Here are a few tips for dressing according to the time of year.

Spring

Spring is one of the most unpredictable seasons. It can be both very hot, and very cool. 

A knee-length or maxi dress should be able to keep you warm during a spring wedding. Spring is also great to break out the floral patterns and beautiful pastel colors. These also make great accent colors for ties or pocket squares.

Summer

The most important thing to pay attention to during a summer wedding is the fabric of your clothing. Choose breathable fabric such as cotton or chiffon. Make sure your dress is lightweight and easy to move in. Men may want to go with a short sleeve polo rather than a long-sleeve shirt.

Summer is the time to break out the bright colors. Pinks, blues, and purples are all popular summer wedding colors.

Fall

Fall weddings tend to be the most comfortable time of year to go to a wedding. You can wear a long maxi dress or cocktail dress with a shawl on top. It should also be cool enough for men to wear suits over their dress shirts.

Fall is all about the earthy tones. Look for clothing in beautiful shades of orange, brown, green, and red.

Winter

Winter weddings are often more formal as the holidays approach. Make sure you stay warm and select a long-sleeve dress or pantsuit. Men can opt for a full suit or tuxedo.

Winter is a great time to go with icy blue and silver tones. 

Follow This Fashion Guide for Success

Now that you have this wedding guest fashion guide, you are ready to dress for success. A few simple facts about dress codes and seasons are all you need to look beautiful at your next wedding.

If you enjoyed this article, then feel free to check out the rest of our blog for more informative wedding and lifestyle content.