Here is a guide outlining common wedding dress codes and what they actually mean.
Deciding what to wear to someone’s wedding can be daunting. Do you dress modestly? Are tuxedos expected? Should you avoid wearing white? Should you wear heels or flats? The decisions seem endless. Choosing appropriate attire can still feel like a guessing game, even when the invitation states the wedding dress code. And when there’s no dress code stated, it leads to even more confusion. Here is a guide outlining common wedding dress codes and what they actually mean.
White Tie
If the invitation says the dress code is white tie, then the wedding is very formal. These types of weddings are fairly uncommon, but if you are invited to a white-tie wedding, be prepared to bring your best looks. While this may be a bit intimidating, it is an opportunity to pretend you’re royalty for an evening.
Women should wear a full-length dress, such as a ballgown, a sheath, or an A-line style. High heels are strongly recommended. Feel free to accessorize with opulent jewelry and even elbow-length silk gloves. Men should choose a long, black tuxedo tailcoat, a white vest, a formal white shirt, and a white bow tie. Black patent leather shoes complete the look.
Black Tie
While still very formal, a black tie dress code isn’t quite as strict as a white tie. But it’s better to be overdressed rather than under for a black tie wedding. If in doubt, go with a more formal option.
A ball gown is often required for a black tie wedding. It doesn’t necessarily have to be full-length, but it should be below the knees and not too revealing. Another formal dress code option is a tuxedo, minus the tails and gloves. So, male guests need a black tuxedo jacket, matching trousers, a formal white shirt, a black bow tie, a black cummerbund or vest, and black patent shoes and dress socks.
Black Tie Optional or Formal
The term “black tie optional” (sometimes called “formal”) can seem confusing, but it makes your outfit choice more flexible. While this is still an elevated event, men are not required to wear a tuxedo; although it’s encouraged, a dark suit is acceptable. Women are more than welcome to wear a floor-length dress, but if you prefer a knee-length cocktail dress, that is fine, as long as it’s not too revealing.
Semi-Formal
When choosing a semi-formal wedding outfit, you want something fancier than you would wear to the office but a bit less formal than black tie garb.
As the term “formal” is still included, attire should be refined. For women, this could mean a silky pantsuit, a midi satin dress, a fitted jumpsuit, or another polished option without looking too formal. Men don’t need to wear tuxes for this wedding dress code, but they still need to put thought into their appearance. A dark suit with a dress shirt, tie, and shoes is appropriate.
Cocktail
A cocktail dress code allows you to have more fun with your outfit. Men don’t need to worry about a tuxedo; a tailored suit (with or without a tie) is perfect. Women can wear short dresses or elegant separates if they’re still dressy. This is an ideal occasion to throw on that little black dress. Avoid styles like sundresses, which are too casual for this evening event.
HISTORIC OAKLAND MANOR: THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE
Nestled in a peaceful wooded area in the heart of downtown Columbia, Historic Oakland Manor stands proudly in natural splendor. Elegant Oakland is the perfect setting for ceremonies, wedding receptions, bridal showers, holiday parties, family celebrations, business meetings, or retreats. Schedule a tour today with our expert venue coordinators! Please call (410-730-4801), email ([email protected]), or visit our chat on our homepage to book a tour appointment.
