Five Wedding Dress Codes Explained!

Are you unsure of how to dress for a daytime, afternoon, or evening wedding that you just got an invite to? Here are five common wedding dress codes explained.

Resort formal
Just because the wedding will be held on or near a beach doesn’t mean wearing a fancy cover-up or flip-flops are appropriate for the event. A summer dress or colourful cocktail dress are both great options for ladies, and a linen suit or khakis and a button-down shirt for the guys will be comfortable and stylish.

You should have it at the back of your mind that you may likely be on the sand, so wear fancy flat sandals since it will be nearly impossible to walk in high heels.

A morning formal wedding
If your friends (the engaged couple) got inspired by Prince William and Princess Kate (Middleton), who had a formal wedding in the morning, there’s a strict dress code for guests to follow.

The men can wear a cutaway coat with tails, a vest, and pin-striped pants with a top hat-optional. Another option is a morning suit, an all-gray version of the cutaway coat, pants and tails, or a dark gray or black suit.

Women shouldn’t wear a floor-length dress before the evening, but a tea-length dress, coloured pantsuit, or alternatively, a skirt and top – which are quite formal for a wedding held early in the day.

An afternoon wedding
if you are a guest to an afternoon wedding, it is best to look to the venue for clues on the dress code. If it’s an outside venue, it’s most appropriate to wear a day dress such as floral chiffon print or a long, flowing maxi gown.

If indoors, a short cocktail dress is appropriate, as is a little black dress that can be jazzed up with fun accessories. Men can leave the tuxedos at home, as they generally are not worn before 6 p.m.

Outdoor ceremony
For an outdoor ceremony, it’s totally acceptable for ladies to wear a jacket that complements their attires. Ladies can never go wrong with a shawl or pashmina.

If it’s raining on the wedding day, raincoats are certainly acceptable for both ladies and gentlemen. You can also carry a classy umbrella that is oversize and a solid colour: white, black, navy, or beige.

Dressy casual
if the wedding invitation reads “dressy casual” or “semi formal,” it’s the time of day that will help dictate your outfit for the wedding. A cocktail dress or a dressy long skirt and top can be worn in a lighter colour; and this works for a daytime wedding, while the same in a dark shade is appropriate for an evening affair.

A man should wear a suit with tie, and depending on the season a lighter fabric and colour in warm weather, and a darker, heavier fabric in cooler weather. A floor-length evening gown should be avoided.

Dressy casual is a form of attire that is a notch above casual wear. Dress slacks and sports coat/blazer for men and blouse and slacks/skirt or short dresses for ladies.