Prepare for your next wedding!

I have a couple of weddings coming up soon, and the question has arisen of what is considered proper wedding attire. This depends on the type of wedding, venue, and couple. Oftentimes, there will be a dress code listed on the wedding website or invitation. There can still be some confusion, however, on what these different types of dress codes actually mean.

Let's take some time to clear up some of the confusion! Here are some different types of dress codes, as well as other tips for selecting the perfect outfit:

Cocktail Attire

This seems to be a pretty popular one! But what does it actually mean? Cocktail attire can toe the line between formal and casual.

For women, you will mostly want to stick to knee-length or mid-length dresses. The goal here is to find a balance between a gown and a mini dress, neither of which would particularly suit this type of theme. You can also opt for a jumpsuit and fancy shoes!

For men, a suit and tie would be a suitable option (pun intended), paired with dress shoes. If you don't want to go for a full suit, make sure to at least have a suit jacket and a tie.

Black Tie

Stepping up the sophistication levels, we have black-tie attire. This will definitely be more formal than a wedding with a cocktail attire dress code. These types of weddings often take place later on in the day.

Men, it's time to break out the tux. A bow tie or a long black tie will pair well with this.

Women should go for long formal gowns for a black tie wedding. This could be a good time to break out your old prom dress if you held onto it! 

White Tie 

And yet, it can get even more formal! White-tie events really take things up to a whole new level. It can also be referred to at times as "full-dress."

Men will want tuxedos (again) for this type of wedding, this time including a long tailcoat. They will also need cufflinks, a formal shirt, a white vest, and formal shoes.

Women will want long gowns (again), and may even wish to wear ballgowns. The fabric should be elegant as well.

Gloves are optional for men and women, as they can add an extra fancy touch, perfect for a white-tie affair!

Other Things to Keep in Mind 

Aside from the dress code, there are other details to consider when selecting a wedding outfit. One of these could be the season. What time of year is it? This can impact what styles and colors make the most sense for the occasion. You may also take the venue into consideration. Use the style and theme of the location as a guide for choosing the perfect outfit. A rule we probably all know by now is to avoid wearing white (unless specifically stated otherwise)! White is the bride's color for the day, not yours. You may also be given a point of contact (other than the bride) to ask specific questions about the wedding, including the dress code. When in doubt, don't be afraid to ask questions!

There are many things to think about when attending a wedding, including what to wear. Remember, keep with the dress code when you select your wedding attire! It may be confusing at times to tell the difference between the various wedding dress codes, but we hope this can help bring some clarity.