You’ve begun receiving wedding invitations for 2017, and the dress code says garden festive or black tie optional. You instantly think, “What am I supposed to wear?” Well, don’t you worry we’ve got you covered! Deciphering wedding dress code and knowing the proper etiquette for each type of affair can be confusing. Whether it’s hosted in a traditional ballroom or family farm, a wedding is a special celebration that deserves dressing up. Thankfully The Black Tux created a helpful chart to make sure your bridal party dresses up to par with your vision, and wedding guests know exactly what your dress code really means.
Wedding planning has definitely gotten easier over the years, including the process of finding the right attire, and renting is totally on trend right now. Rent the runway has given us ladies endless options and opportunities to look our best, and now the gents have so many options that are beyond their local tux shop. I love a good tailored suit on a man, and The Black Tux has some of the nicest and stylish looks you can custom build from scratch or completely ready to go with just one click. And these are not your typical wedding tuxes, the tailoring is classic yet modern, with endless styles for ties, and even accessories from pocket squares, to belts and cuff links. Once you’ve done the hard task of choosing your favorite look, you send your measurements and they’ll send you, your entire look two weeks before the big day. No need to worry if something doesn’t fit quite right, they’ll take care of it right away…you’re only concern will be to look your best. Plus, it’s a great and easy way to keep track of each groomsman’s suit too! Dressing for a wedding was never so easy.
So what do you exactly wear for that specific wedding dress code? Let’s find out…
Casual
Bridesmaids in jumpsuits, yes please! Who said you can’t wear pants to a wedding. A jumpsuit is the perfect outfit that is carefree and can easily be done up just a bit more fancy than day to day wear. When it comes to causal weddings the guys, whether groomsmen or guest, can forgo a jacket, but do wear nice dress pants, button down and shoes. Sorry sneakers are still not allowed, unless you’re the groom. For a bit of fun, add some suspenders or bow tie in a whimsical print.
Bridesmaids via Solstice Bride | Groomsmen via Inspired by This
Semiformal
If you’re a fashion forward guy, this is the time to showcase that colored suit, and I just love The Black Tux’s Rose suit, I mean that color is everything, and works perfectly for both a day or nighttime semiformal/cocktail wedding. For the gals, this is the affair to wear that pretty floral dress or classic midi skirt with a sophisticated crop top.
Two Piece Outfits via Deer Pearl Flowers | Rose Suit via The Black Tux
Destination or Beach
When it comes to destination or beach weddings, dress codes become a bit looser. Of course consider your destination first {an Italian wedding doesn’t dress the same as a Costa Rican beach}, but casual bright colored dresses and bare feet are acceptable, and of course everyone deserves a flower in their hair. For the guys, linen, khakis and light colors are the way to go.
Floral Gowns via Green Wedding Shoes | Beach Groomsmen via Sweet Jule Photography
Black Tie Optional
Black tie will always be formal. For the ladies, it means floor length gowns or below the knee cocktail dresses, but these days there is plenty of freedom to what brides consider “formal.” Pale colors, high-low hems, lace and embroidery gowns will all look beautiful. Suits are a must for the gents, and preferably a dark color. Play up the classic tux with one in a deep navy or dark charcoal. And just as the dress code suggests, black tie isn’t required, so instead choose one in a fun color or modern print.
Lavender Bridesmaids via Jenny Yoo | Midnight Blue Tux via The Black Tux
Black Tie
Black tie is just a bit more formal than “Black Tie Optional.” Ladies, this is the wedding to rock that sequin beaded dress. Cocktail dresses are still acceptable, as long as they are fancy and formal enough for the wedding’s venue. As for the gentlemen, the dress code says it all, black tie or bow tie is required.
Beaded Gown via Style Me Pretty | Peak Lapel Tuxedo via The Black Tux
White Tie
I think once in our lives we should be able to attend a white tie wedding. This affair would be the closest thing to going to the academy awards or a regal gala. Never wore a ball gown or a dress as fancy since your prom dress, then this is the wedding to do so. At this type of wedding, don’t be surprised to find gentlemen wearing a black jacket with tails a la Downton Abbey, white tie, cummerbund and even gloves.
Gown via Olivia Palermo | White Tie Groomsmen via It Girl Weddings
Now, regardless if you’re having a wedding or attending one, you’ll know exactly what to wear according to each dress code. So make sure you save and Pin this useful chart, and share it with everyone you know. You’ll be thankful later!
top image via 100 Layer Cake
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