One of the first details your guests will notice about your wedding is the dress code. Here’s a breakdown of common dress codes, their meanings, and tips for putting a personal spin on your wedding attire guidelines.
Dress codes - what do they mean? An attire requirement sets the tone for the celebration and helps your loved ones know what to wear to feel comfortable and stylish for your big day. While traditional dress codes are still popular, many couples are getting creative with fun and unique attire themes to add to the experience.
Traditional Wedding Dress Codes
1. White Tie
What It Means: The most formal dress code. Guests are expected to wear their most elegant evening attire.
For Men: Tailcoats, white bow ties, and formal black shoes.
For Women: Full-length ball gowns with glamorous accessories.
For Nonbinary: Pantsuits, long jackets, formal shoes.
Ambiance: Ultra-luxurious and timelessly sophisticated.
2. Black Tie
What It Means: Formal evening wear, slightly less grand than white tie.
For Men: Tuxedos with black bow ties or ties.
For Women: Full-length gowns or elegant cocktail dresses.
For Nonbinary: Full-length gowns with suit jackets, ascot ties, dress shoes.
Ambiance: Sophisticated and chic.
3. Formal or Black Tie Optional
What It Means: Guests have the option to dress in formal attire without it being mandatory.
For Men: Tuxedos or dark suits with ties.
For Women: Long dresses, dressy separates, or cocktail dresses.
For Nonbinary: Slacks and formal blouses, pantsuits, ties or silk scarves.
Ambiance: Polished yet approachable.
4. Cocktail Attire
What It Means: Semi-formal, stylish, and fun.
For Men: Dark suits or blazers with dress shirts and ties.
For Women: Knee-length dresses, jumpsuits, or two piece sets.
For Nonbinary: Short suits, Jumpsuits, boots, dressy separates.
Ambiance: Modern and versatile.
5. Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual
What It Means: A relaxed take on formalwear, perfect for afternoon or outdoor weddings.
For Men: Dress shirts with slacks, ties optional.
For Women: Midi dresses, skirts, or dressy pants.
For Nonbinary: Fun button downs, dressier pants, loafers.
Ambiance: Casual elegance.
6. Casual
What It Means: Comfortable and laid-back, with no pressure for formal attire.
For Men: Button-down shirts or polos with chinos or dressy jeans.
For Women: Sundresses, skirts, or jumpsuits.
For Nonbinary:
Ambiance: Relaxed and approachable.
Creative and Fun Dress Code Themes for 2025
Why stick to tradition when you can use your dress code to enhance your wedding theme and make your celebration even more memorable? Here are some unique ideas to inspire you:
1. Bright Monochromatic - Perfect for spring or summer weddings, pick a main color from your palette to feature. This years? Olive greens, stark whites, mocha mousse, pale pink.
2. Garden Party - Set the stage for an outdoor wedding with florals, pastels, and soft, romantic attire. Guests can wear light dresses, suits in light colors, and even accessorize with hats or fascinators.
3. Outdo the Bride - Are you ready to see the wildest outfits your loved ones have ever worn? Try an outdo the bride. Think Met Gala inspired wedding outfits - big ballgowns, bold accessories, and a luxurious maximalism.
4. Roaring ‘20s or Great Gatsby - Throw a vintage-inspired affair and ask guests to dress in 1920s fashion—think flapper dresses, beaded headbands, and tailored suits.
5. All White Wedding - For a modern and visually striking look, request that guests wear all white. This creates a cohesive and elegant atmosphere - and the photos will look amazing.
6. Modern Renaissance - Think lace, toile patters, and a modern take on the Bridgerton garden party. Choose warm and delicate floral prints, lighter attire for the men, and consider tea length skirts and dresses.
Tips for Choosing and Communicating Your Dress Code
Match the Code to Your Venue and Theme - Your dress code should complement the overall vibe of your wedding. A formal ballroom calls for black tie, while a garden ceremony works better with semi-formal or dressy casual attire.
Be Clear and Specific - Make sure your dress code is easy to understand. For creative themes, provide examples or descriptions on your wedding website to help guests plan their outfits.We also love a simple style board giving tons of creative examples and inspo.
Consider Comfort - Think about the season, location, and weather when choosing a dress code. Outdoor weddings in the summer may call for lighter fabrics, while winter weddings require layers and warmer options.
Have Fun with the Details - Encourage guests to accessorize according to your theme, whether it’s floral prints for a garden wedding or gold accents for a Gatsby-inspired celebration.
Your wedding dress code is more than a set of guidelines—it’s an opportunity to enhance the atmosphere and make your celebration truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you stick to traditional attire or opt for a creative twist, the key is to make sure your guests feel informed, comfortable, and excited to participate in your special day.
Love what you see? We would love to help you plan your unique wedding vision. Let us provide tailored vendor recommendations and create a unique design that fits your style and your budget. Don't have a venue yet? No problem. Having a planner as the first step in the process can save you time, energy and money.
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