Seasonality can make a difference in your black tie choices. Winter weddings can accommodate gowns in velvets with accessories like fur stoles, while summer weddings may encourage gowns in lighter colors and fabrics.
Black-Tie Optional
“A black-tie optional wedding gives guests the freedom to dress up without the pressure of a strict dress code,” shares Keane. “While the dress code says ‘optional,’ it’s safe to assume that a tuxedo for men is a subtle expectation, especially at high-end venues or for couples going for a particularly luxe vibe. A dark, tailored suit is also acceptable as long as it’s formal—think classic: a crisp dress shirt, tie or bow tie, and polished shoes.”
“Women have a little bit more flexibility, with long gowns, dressy cocktail dresses, or a formal jumpsuit or tailored pantsuit being ideal, as long as the overall look is sophisticated,” notes the stylist. “Avoid casual pieces like sundresses, denim, or anything too laid-back. The key is to always go for a polished, elegant look, whether it’s a floor-length gown or a chic formal dress. Keep it elevated and formal!”
Formal Dress Code
A formal dress code is essentially the same thing as black-tie optional. Formality is in the name, so you will be expected to follow suit. Women can wear sophisticated dresses or suits, while men can choose a tuxedo or tailored suit in hues of black or dark navy. When in doubt, it’s best to have a more conservative approach than what you might wear to a cocktail attire event.
Cocktail Dress Code
If the dress code reads cocktail, you can take a bit of liberty with your attire. While your outfit should still be elegant, you can wear dresses with shorter hemlines ranging from midi to knee length or get more creative with your overall look. Suits or elegant blouses with tailored pants or skirts can also work for women in this dress code. Accessorizing your outfit? Pick a chic bag that coordinates with your look, but steer away from larger purses. Heels are always appropriate, but a fashionable flat or sandal can also work if they fit the formality. In warm months or daytime events, patterns like floral prints may often be worn to these celebrations.
Men can wear tailored suits in a variety of colors to a cocktail-attire event. Ties, or fashionable options, like a Prada bolo, can be added to the ensemble as well. Dress shoes like oxfords, derbies, or loafers are the best footwear choice for this wedding dress code.
Photo: Mónica Varas
Dressy-Casual or Semi-Formal Dress Code
If a couple wants their guests to dress nicely but not so formally, they may put “dressy casual” down as the dress code. Slacks and a button-down shirt are an easy choice for men looking to fit this category. A tie or a suit jacket is a nice addition, but it’s not necessarily a requirement. Women can wear a nice top and skirt, a knee-length or midi dress, or a suit. Fabrics like linens and cotton could be appropriate at this event as well. In short, this dress code allows you to dress smart, yet comfortable.
Casual Dress Code
While you might assume a casual dress code allows guests to wear whatever they wish, there are still some limits to when this applies to a wedding. Jeans, shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and tank tops are still likely to be off-limits at this affair (unless clearly stated within the dress code guidelines). A collared shirt and slacks is a good option for men, while women can wear mini or midi dresses as well as other stylish ensembles that fit the feel of the venue.
Daytime Dress Codes
While dress codes might dictate the length of your dress or the style of your suit, when the event takes place will also alter your outfit expectations. “The time of day definitely affects how you should approach a dress code, especially at weddings,” says Keane. “For a daytime cocktail event, the vibe tends to be more relaxed, with lighter fabrics and color palettes. Think softer tones, pastels, or floral prints, and materials like cotton, linen, or chiffon. Women can go for a shorter or chic tea-length dress and accessories should be kept simple, while men can wear a lighter-colored suit, maybe with a tie and pocket square to elevate things slightly.”
Evening Dress Codes
Conversely, if you are invited to an evening wedding event, you can embrace sleeker styles and more dramatic hues. “For an evening cocktail dress code, the tone shifts towards something more formal and glamorous,” notes Keane. “Darker colors like navy, black, or jewel tones are common, along with luxe fabrics like satin, velvet, or silk. Women may wear longer dresses or more sophisticated shorter options, and men should stick with a dark, well-tailored suit—or even a tuxedo if the event is on the formal side. Evening accessories tend to be bolder, and shoes get more formal too, like high heels or dress shoes.” She adds, “Overall, the look should feel more refined, with a bit of drama to match the evening vibe.”
Tropical Dress Codes
If you’re going to a wedding on a beach or in a fun destination south of the border, you might see “tropical” as part of the dress code. This modifier often calls for colorful shades or bold, floral-inspired prints. If you’re choosing between a black dress and an orange one for a tropical affair, it’s best to choose the latter.
Western Chic Dress Code
Going to a wedding on a ranch? You may see a “Western chic” dress code on an invite for a pre-wedding event or the main event. “I have seen this a few times, and it is always a fun one,” notes Keane. “Guests usually take it pretty literally—denim jackets, cowboy boots, bolo ties, fringing, ruffles, turquoise jewelry, and plenty of plaid or floral prints. Women tend to go for flowy dresses, which always looks great in a rustic setting. It is a dress code that lets people embrace the theme without feeling like they are in costume!”