To be really honest, Daniel and I haven’t attended very many weddings as guests. We’ve either been in the wedding party or been the photographers. But, I do know that knowing how to dress appropriately for weddings (or really any special event) can be stressful. It can be embarrassing to be way overdressed or underdressed for a wedding. In an effort to help your guests, we are sharing a wedding guest style guide. You can use this guide to help you decide how formal or casual you want your wedding to be too.

 

The Wedding Guest Style Guide For Each Wedding Type

Casual

But not too casual.

Hers:

Summer dresses are perfect for casual weddings. A skirt or pants with a nice blouse are appropriate too. Natural, everyday makeup and hair are great. While dress shoes are not required, do avoid wearing flip-flops.

His:

Dress pants and a button-down shirt or polo are appropriate. Jeans, shorts, and sneakers are too casual (even for a casual wedding).

 

Semiformal / Dressy Casual

Think “a night out on the town”.

Hers:

A cocktail dress or dressy skirt and top are perfect.

His:

A semiformal wedding calls for a suit and tie. If the wedding is in the evening, go with a darker suit. A light suit is great for daytime weddings.

 

Beach Formal

Think breezy, comfortable and weather-appropriate.

Hers:

A beach wedding calls for a formal summer dress that is knee-length. Flat sandals are a great match for this event type. Natural hair and makeup are appropriate.

His:

A summer suit and linen shirt are appropriate. You can also wear linen pants or khakis. No tie is required.

 

Black Tie Optional

Think dark and sophisticated.

Hers:

A long dress or formal cocktail-length dress is perfect. A dressy suit is also acceptable.

His:

A tuxedo or dark suit and tie are expected.

 

Black Tie

This is your basic formal event.

Hers:

A long evening gown or chic cocktail dress in a dark or neutral color is expected.

His:

Wear a tuxedo, black bow tie, cummerbund, and patent leather shoes.

 

White Tie

This is the ultimate formal event.

Hers:

A full-length ballgown, glamorous hair and makeup, and dramatic jewelry are appropriate.

His:

A tuxedo with a long black jacket that has tails, a white pique vest, bow tie, and formal shoes are expected. White gloves for dancing are optional.

 

If your guests do not own formal attire and don’t wish to purchase something, renting is a great option. Rent the Runway is a great website to rent dresses from. For the gentlemen, The Black Tux is a good place to find suits.