A Comprehensive Guide to Wedding Guest Attire (2023)

White Tie

White tie is as formal as it gets, and it isn't very common these days. But, if you're invited to this type of event, dressing the part is imperative.

For men, the dress code is strict: a black tailcoat, a white vest, a formal white shirt, a white bowtie, "and white gloves if you're feeling fancy," says Corry. For your feet, wear black pumps (a.k.a. opera shoes).

For women, opinions vary, but it's safest to stick with a long, formal dress. Pollak suggests considering the size of your gown, though, because large, poufy dresses can be hard to sit in. Heels are preferred, but make sure that you can walk in them. It's better to wear a shorter height than to stumble around all day.

Black Tie

Evening wear is most appropriate here. For men, this typically means a dark tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a coordinating bow tie, a cummerbund, and suspenders (optional), says Corry. Dress shoes, like oxfords, are suitable.

Women can wear either a long gown or a dressy cocktail dress. Again, heels are preferable.

Black Tie Optional (Formal)

When in doubt, stick to black tie, but if you'd rather dress a bit more casually, you can. According to Corry, men can wear a dark suit instead of a tuxedo and a conservative tie instead of a bow tie.

For women, "a chic cocktail dress is perfect," says Corry. Dressy separates are okay, too. Footwear can be slightly more fun.

Creative Black Tie

Both Corry and Pollak note that they rarely come across this dress code, but just in case, here are some tips.

"For a guy, it means have fun," Pollak explains. This might entail wearing personality-infused accessories (think: unique ties, cufflinks, or even socks) or menswear (think: a jacket in a unique material or color).

It's the same idea for women. "Take yourself less seriously and have fun with your outfit," Corry reiterates. Statement jewelry, shoes, handbags, and more are all game (though Pollak emphasizes keeping comfort in mind).

Semiformal (Cocktail)

According to Corry, the name says it call. "On the spectrum of wedding attire, semiformal falls somewhere between formal and casual." In her opinion, men's suits can be worn with or without ties.

Pollak deems semiformal "fairly dressy," but admits that, again, women have a lot of flexibility. Cocktail dresses or dressy separates almost always work.

Casual

Casual attire really varies, and can depend on things like location and time of day. At its most formal, it entails a sport coat. Button-downs, sweaters, and relaxed pants (chinos, khakis, etc.) are usually fine. At its least formal, men can get away with polos and shorts. In all cases, footwear's less restricted (boat shoes may be worn, for example).

Ladies can wear a "less-dressy dress," says Pollak (think: a sundress). More casual shoes, like sandals or flats, are appropriate here.

Traditional

In some cases, you may be asked to wear attire that aligns with a certain culture's customs. For example, a couple having a traditional Indian wedding might ask women to don saris. In these instances, do your research, ask for help when needed, and always dress respectfully.

Custom

In today's day and age, anything's possible. We've seen couples send color palettes in their wedding invitations, which their guests were asked to dress according to. We've seen others make Pinterest boards of outfit ideas to inspire their attendees. "Our wedding dress code was upscale-casual, and we asked our guests to be inspired by the Tuscan landscape for their attire," shares Corry, who's pictured above at her wedding in Italy. Most of her celebrants showed up in neutral hues, like these.

Other examples include calls for "festive" attire (clothing that fits into a certain theme) or "beach chic" attire (clothing that's formal enough for a wedding, but suitable for a sandy setting). When faced with imaginative instructions, embrace them, and ask for clarification when needed.

Mystery

No indication of what you're supposed to wear, anywhere? If you're having trouble getting answers from the couple, you have a few other options. You can look to the wedding's specifics (the weather, where it's being held, etc.) and dress according to those. Or, you can ask other guests what they're planning to wear. If you know a member of the wedding party, even better—their designated outfits might clue you into what's appropriate.