How to Manage the Dress Code for Your Wedding

Deciding on the dress code for your wedding can be more complicated than it seems.

Some guests may be unsure about what to wear, while others might not be aware of the level of formality required.

To avoid confusion and ensure everyone dresses appropriately, a great solution is to have a wedding website where guests can find clear guidelines on the expected attire.

This is something we are often asked for, and it is one of the important sections of the website.

In the dress code section, you can add your mood board with the style you expect from your guests, helping to inspire them so that on your wedding day, everyone looks just as you imagined.

Types of dress codes for weddings and their meaning

Below, we explain the most common wedding dress codes and what they entail:

White Tie (Full Formal Attire)

This is the highest level of formality, typically reserved for very elegant or gala-style weddings.

👨 Men:

✅ Black tailcoat with tails.

✅ White dress shirt with a stiff front.

✅ White bow tie and white vest.

👩 Women:

✅ Floor-length ball gown.

✅ Optional gloves.

✅ Fine jewelry and sophisticated hairstyle.

Black Tie (Formal Attire)

One of the most commonly used dress codes for evening weddings.

👨 Men:

✅ Black tuxedo with a black bow tie.

✅ White dress shirt with French cuffs.

✅ Black patent leather shoes.

👩 Women:

✅ Elegant long or midi dress.

✅ Sophisticated hairstyle and makeup.

✅ Discreet and elegant accessories.

Formal or Black Tie Optional

Offers more flexibility while maintaining elegance.

👨 Men:

✅ Tuxedo or dark suit with a tie or bow tie.

✅ Dark formal shoes.

👩 Women:

✅ Long, midi, or sophisticated cocktail dress.

✅ Refined accessories.

Cocktail Attire (Semi-Formal)

A perfect balance between elegance and comfort.

👨 Men:

✅ Suit in dark or neutral tones.

✅ Dress shirt with or without a tie.

👩 Women:

✅ Cocktail dress or elegant ensemble.

✅ Heels or elegant sandals.

Beach Wedding / Garden Wedding

Perfect for outdoor or seaside weddings.

👨 Men:

✅ Lightweight linen or light-colored suit.

✅ Boat shoes or elegant sandals.

👩 Women:

✅ Flowy, fresh dress.

✅ Elegant sandals or espadrilles.

✅ Optional sun hat or light headpiece.

Casual Chic or Smart Casual

For relaxed weddings with a touch of elegance.

👨 Men:

✅ Chinos or linen pants with a button-down shirt.

✅ Optional blazer, no tie required.

👩 Women:

✅ Light dress or stylish skirt/pants ensemble.

✅ Comfortable yet sophisticated shoes.