Being a wedding guest means looking your best without taking attention away from the couple. The easiest way to get it right is to understand the dress code and think about the venue, season and time of day. This guide explains each dress code and what to wear.
Key takeaways
- Read the invitation carefully for the dress code
- Avoid white, ivory and anything bridal
- Match fabric and length to the season and venue
- Choose comfortable shoes for standing and dancing
- When in doubt, dress slightly more formally
Wedding dress codes explained
| Dress code | What it means | What to wear |
|---|---|---|
| White tie | The most formal | Floor-length gown, formal gloves optional |
| Black tie | Very formal evening event | Floor-length gown or very elegant cocktail dress |
| Black tie optional / formal | Formal, with some flexibility | Maxi or midi dress, dressy jumpsuit |
| Cocktail / semi-formal | Elegant but not floor-length | Knee-length or midi dress, dressy separates |
| Smart casual / garden | Relaxed but polished | Flowing midi dress, floral prints, block heels |
| Beach | Casual and breathable | Light maxi or midi dress, flat or wedge sandals |
If no dress code is mentioned, look at the time and venue: evening and city venues usually lean formal; daytime, outdoor and rural venues can be more relaxed.
Colours to wear and avoid
Avoid
- White, ivory, cream and champagne, unless the couple specifically asks for it
- Anything that could look like a bridal gown
- All-black at a daytime wedding in some cultures; check local traditions
- Red at some traditional weddings, where it may be reserved for the bride
Great choices
- Spring/summer: pastels, florals, sage green, powder blue, blush, butter yellow
- Autumn/winter: jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire, burgundy and plum
- Evening: navy, deep berry and metallics
Fabrics by season
- Warm weather: chiffon, cotton, linen blends, light crepe
- Cool weather: velvet, satin, heavier crepe, long sleeves; add a wrap or tailored coat
Choose the right silhouette
A wrap or fit-and-flare dress flatters most people and is easy to sit, eat and dance in. For more guidance, read how to choose a dress for your body shape.
Shoes and accessories
- Grass or gardens: block heels, wedges or elegant flats
- Beach: flat sandals or wedges
- City or ballroom: heels, with foldable flats in your bag
- A small clutch, statement earrings and a wrap or pashmina for the evening
See more ideas in the accessories edit.
Hair and makeup
Choose long-lasting makeup and a hairstyle that will survive hugs, tears and dancing. A soft updo or loose waves pinned back work well outdoors. Our natural makeup routine is a good base; add a bolder lip for evening.
Wedding guest checklist
- Check the dress code and venue
- Try the full outfit on, including shoes, before the day
- Pack: flats, plasters, a phone charger, tissues, lip product and a light layer
- Prepare a card and gift in advance
Common mistakes
- Wearing white or ivory
- Stilettos on grass
- Outfits too revealing for a religious ceremony
- New shoes that haven’t been broken in
FAQ
Can I wear black to a wedding?
In many places, black is accepted at evening and formal weddings. For daytime weddings or traditional cultures, a colour is safer.
Can I wear the same dress to several weddings?
Yes. Change accessories, shoes and hair to create a new look.
Is a jumpsuit appropriate for a wedding?
A dressy jumpsuit in an elegant fabric is suitable for most cocktail and formal weddings.
