Navigating wedding dress codes can feel like solving a fashion puzzle. With terms like “black tie optional” and “dressy casual,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the possibilities. If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet unsure of what to wear to a wedding, you’re not alone.

Grasping the nuances of wedding attire isn’t just about adhering to a dress code — it’s about celebrating the couple and fitting seamlessly into their big day. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the event and helps you blend into the ambiance they’ve thoughtfully created.

A wedding dress code offers hints about the event’s formality and theme. They set expectations for wedding guests, ensuring everyone contributes to the overall vibe, whether it’s an elegant evening affair or a relaxed beachfront ceremony. Ready to decode these attire guidelines? Let’s dive into the most common wedding dress codes and how to ace them.

Wedding Dress Codes and What They Mean

Understanding wedding dress codes is key to selecting the perfect outfit that matches the event’s tone. Each dress code offers clues about the wedding’s formality, setting and style, guiding you toward clothing that complements the celebration. From the grandeur of a formal wedding to the laid-back vibe of a beach wedding, here’s how to interpret what each dress code really means:

White Tie: The Pinnacle of Formality

White tie weddings are the epitome of elegance and tradition. Reserved for the most formal occasions, these events often take place in grand venues and exude a timeless sophistication.

For her: Embrace the opulence with a full-length evening gown that grazes the floor. Think luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet, adorned with formal jewelry such as diamond necklaces or pearl earrings. An elegant updo completes the look, adding a touch of refinement.

For him: A black tailcoat is a must, paired with a white waistcoat, white dress shirt and a crisp white bow tie. Polished black dress shoes and understated accessories like cufflinks elevate the ensemble to match the event’s esteemed ambiance.

Black Tie: Timeless Elegance

Black tie weddings are a step below white tie in formality but still demand a high level of sophistication. Typically held in the evening at upscale venues, these events call for chic and polished attire.

For her: Opt for a floor-length gown or a fancy cocktail dress. Minimal yet sophisticated accessories, such as a delicate bracelet or understated clutch, keep the focus on your ensemble. Rich colors and classic silhouettes work best for this formal dress code.

For him: A tuxedo is essential, complete with a black bow tie, polished dress shoes and cufflinks. This timeless look exudes confidence and is perfect for an evening wedding steeped in tradition. 

Formal (Black Tie Optional): A Slightly Relaxed Elegance

A formal or black tie optional dress code offers a bit more flexibility while maintaining an air of elegance. It’s a nod to traditional black tie attire but allows guests to choose between fully formal and slightly less formal options.

For her: Consider a floor-length gown or a dressy midi dress. These styles offer elegance without the full commitment of a black tie ensemble. Sleek fabrics and refined accessories will elevate your look appropriately.

For him: You can opt for a tuxedo or a dark suit with a tie. This choice lets you feel comfortable while still honoring the event’s formality. Ensure your suit is well-tailored and pair it with polished dress shoes.

Cocktail Attire: Chic and Stylish

Cocktail attire strikes the perfect balance between formal and casual, making it ideal for evening weddings with a festive atmosphere.

For her: Knee-length dresses, stylish jumpsuits or sleek separates are all excellent choices. Feel free to play with colors, textures and patterns. Accessories can be bolder here — think statement earrings or a vibrant clutch.

For him: A dark suit paired with a tie or pocket square fits the bill. This is an opportunity to showcase personal style through details like patterned ties or unique cufflinks.

Semi-Formal: Polished but Relaxed

Semi-formal attire offers a comfortable middle ground, perfect for afternoon or early evening weddings that are less formal but still special.

For her: Midi or tea-length dresses and dressy skirts paired with blouses are appropriate. Opt for lighter colors and fabrics for daytime events and slightly darker hues for the evening. Minimal accessories keep the look effortless.

For him: Light-colored suits or dress pants with a blazer work well. Consider incorporating subtle patterns or textures to add interest. A tie is optional but can enhance the ensemble.

Casual: Relaxed but Respectful

Casual doesn’t mean sloppy. For weddings with a laid-back vibe — think backyard or daytime ceremonies — you’ll want to look relaxed yet polished.

For her: Sundresses, skirts with light tops or tailored jumpsuits are excellent choices. Comfortable fabrics and playful prints can reflect the easygoing atmosphere.

For him: Dress pants or khakis paired with a button-down shirt fit the bill. You can skip the tie and opt for loafers or other casual dress shoes.

Themed Dress Codes: Playful and Personalized

Some couples infuse their weddings with specific themes, offering a fun opportunity to get creative with your outfit. Themed dress codes allow you to showcase your personality while honoring the couple’s unique vision. For example:

• Beach wedding: Embrace light fabrics like linen or chiffon. Flowy dresses and sandals are perfect for sandy shores, while men can opt for linen shirts with trousers.
• Boho chic: Think earthy tones, lace details and floral prints. Accessories like headbands or layered necklaces can enhance the bohemian vibe.
• Classic glam: Timeless black dresses or suits with vintage-inspired accessories bring a touch of old Hollywood to the event.

What to Wear When There’s No Dress Code

Sometimes, a wedding invitation arrives without any mention of attire, leaving guests in a sartorial quandary. But fear not — there are savvy ways to navigate this fashion mystery. Start by considering the venue: Is it a grand hotel, a rustic barn or a chic rooftop? The location often hints at the formality of the event. Next, think about the time of day. An evening wedding typically calls for more formal attire, while daytime ceremonies are usually less formal. Lastly, pay attention to the invitation’s style. An elegant, embossed invite suggests a different dress code than a casual, playful design.

Safe Options

When in doubt, opt for classic choices that strike a balance between formal wedding attire and casual.

For her: Cocktail dresses are a universal favorite that fit seamlessly into most wedding settings. Choose styles that are elegant yet comfortable, such as knee-length dresses in flattering silhouettes. Chic separates — like a tailored blouse with a midi skirt — also offer versatility and style. Opt for shorter dresses in colors that complement the season and setting, and don’t shy away from subtle patterns or textures.

For him: A neutral-toned suit is a reliable option. Think shades of navy, grey or beige, which are adaptable to various settings. Pair it with a crisp dress shirt and consider adding a blazer for a polished touch. A tie or pocket square can elevate the look, but feel free to skip the tie for a more relaxed vibe, especially for daytime events.

Universal Don’ts

Regardless of the wedding’s style or setting, certain attire choices are best avoided to honor the couple’s day: 

• Avoid white unless specifically requested: White is traditionally reserved for the bride. Wearing white — or even shades too close to white like ivory or champagne — can be seen as attempting to upstage the bride, which is a major faux pas.
• Skip overly casual items: Jeans, sneakers and graphic tees are too informal, even for a casual wedding. These items can come across as disrespectful to the significance of the occasion.
• Avoid anything too revealing or flashy: While it’s great to feel confident, attire that’s overly revealing or attention-grabbing can distract from the celebration. Aim for elegance and subtlety to keep the focus on the couple.

Where to Get Your Wedding Guest Attire

The right outfit enhances not only your confidence but also contributes to the wedding’s overall atmosphere. For stylish and stress-free wedding guest attire, Rent the Runway has you covered. With a vast selection of designer dresses, jumpsuits and accessories, finding the perfect ensemble is a breeze. 
Whether you’re embracing the elegance of a black tie wedding or the relaxed vibe of a beach ceremony, there’s something for every dress code and personal style. Ready to shine at your next wedding? Explore Rent the Runway’s collection to find the perfect outfit for your next wedding.