The topic of wedding dress codes is currently hotly debated. For beautiful, uniform photos with your bridesmaids and friends of the groom, you should certainly make your wishes regarding dress. You’ll be able to learn about existing dress codes and how to comply with them here.
The bride and groom and their stylishly dressed guests stand on the historic stone staircase in front of the charming building, glowing with joy.
White Tie
White tie is considered the most formal dress code of wedding dress codes. Male guests at a wedding should be in a tailcoat, while women should wear an elegant long evening gown. Such a dress code naturally places high demands and expectations on your guests. Many people don’t have such an outfit in their closet. But if all of your guests show up in festive attire, it will certainly create a very festive and impressive look. Think about the pros and cons of such a specific dress code and consider whether you can compromise. For example, if women are not required to wear an evening dress but only a long dress, it might make a difference.
Black Tie
The Black Tie dress code is a little more familiar but still very formal. In this version, men wear a black tuxedo with a white shirt and a black bow tie. Women have a little more leeway. You must be groomed and dressed appropriately, which means a nice dress – short or long – will do. This dress code also requires some investment from your guests. While many women already have a few elegant dresses in their closet, far fewer men have a tuxedo. What do you particularly like about this dress code? For example, if all men wore a black suit with a white shirt, the same classic, uniform effect would be created.
Сocktail
The cocktail dress code is festive, elegant, and a little more relaxed than the two options mentioned above. Now, it gets a little easier for men. You’re not allowed to show up in shorts (or even short suit pants) and a t-shirt, but if you look neat and well-groomed, you’re well-dressed. For women, a classic cocktail dress is the perfect choice. Choose a nice color or pattern, but make sure it’s not too flashy. A dress with a length just above or below the knee will do. An elegant pantsuit will also be a great option. Combine a chic blouse with elegant pants or wide-suit pants.
Summer Chic
Summer dressing with a touch of elegance sounds easy, and it is! This colorful dress code is dominated by bright colors and summer patterns. Make sure it’s elegant clothing, not shorts, beach dresses or flip-flops. Men choose a light suit and a casual shirt with stripes or patterns. Light fabrics such as linen (well-ironed) and cotton are ideal to keep things airy. Elegant yet casual shoes such as brogues, loafers, or sneakers will complete the summer chic look. Women have many options to choose from within this dress code, the main thing is to keep a balance between summer and elegant style. Accessories such as sunglasses, large hats, and colorful scarves will be a great addition.
The bride and her bridesmaids in elegant flowing dresses, laughing, running through a green meadow against the background of a picturesque landscape.
The groom raises his glass at the wedding reception surrounded by a stylishly dressed best man and a radiant bride at a festively set table.
White Wedding
The “White Wedding” dress code is becoming increasingly popular, especially for summer weddings. Here, everyone – both the bride and groom and guests – is dressed in white or light colors such as cream and beige. The look is elegant, and timeless and creates a harmonious overall picture, especially during outdoor or beach celebrations.
While the bride is often highlighted with special details such as lace or jewelry, guests opt for simple, stylish outfits. Men can score points with a light linen suit, while women can go for flowing dresses or skirts. This dress code implies ease and elegance – perfect for a modern summer wedding!
Wedding dress codes. Urban Outfitters
The “Tenue de Ville” dress code – which translates to “clothes worn in the city” – is often chosen for informal weddings or beach weddings. Neutral colors and an elegant look prevail. Men traditionally choose a dark blue suit combined with a lighter shirt and matching tie. Complement the image with elegant leather shoes in black or brown. Women usually wear delicate (pastel) colors such as pink, soft blue, or mint green. Our motto is delicacy and restraint. Better to be plain than too flashy with prints or accessories.
Wedding dress codes. Traditional costume
With a traditional dress code, clothing is determined by tradition and regional customs. Whether it is the Bavarian dirndl and lederhosen, the festive Salzburg costume, or the elegant loden fabrics, traditional elements are the foundation of this style. Each region has its unique colors, patterns, and designs that reflect its cultural heritage and history. The outfits must be authentic and in keeping with tradition, but without looking too modern.
If you are invited to a wedding wearing traditional costume, it is best to follow local customs and ask what type of costume you prefer. Traditional costumes are not just for locals – every guest can put on the right outfit and become part of the cultural heritage. Traditional costume symbolizes community, tradition and a connection to the homeland – the perfect dress code for a wedding with a regional flavor.
Wedding dress codes. Smart casual
The “smart casual” dress code is a mystery to many wedding guests. Essentially, this dress code is a dressier version of your casual closet where you just do a little more. One of the pitfalls for men is that they quickly start to look too businesslike and corporate, which is not the goal of this dress code. Instead, choose a comfortable solid color shirt or a shirt with a discreet pattern. Pairing it with a polo shirt or turtleneck will give the jacket a modern look. However, jeans are better left in the closet, and instead choose chinos or suit pants. This dress code gives women a lot of freedom. You can wear a dress, a chic jumpsuit, a skirt or even pants. It is important that the overall look matches the dress code. For example, if you found the perfect dress for this wedding, but it seems a little flashy to you, you can wear it with sneakers.
Wedding dress codes. Boho
Relaxed, casual and relaxed: a boho dress code implies a relaxed atmosphere. This is achieved through bright colors, natural elements, flowing fabrics and wide silhouettes. Men choose a suit or loose pants and a shirt in pastel or earthy colors. Accessories such as suspenders, a hat or a bow tie with a playful pattern complete the image. Women wear airy maxi dresses made of light fabrics with floral patterns or delicate colors. “Less is more” doesn’t apply here: large earrings, feathers, flowers in the hair – anything goes!
Your personal style
Of course, you don’t have to adhere to a certain dress code and set rules corresponding to it. It’s your wedding, so you can choose a style that matches your big day. For example, you can mix different elements of the dress codes presented, for example, men can wear elegant suits according to the Tenue de Ville dress code and women can wear cocktail dresses. Another option is to choose a certain color as a theme or ask all guests to donate a certain accessory.
How do you let your guests know about the dress code?
Wedding dress codes are very important. Clearly explain what you can expect from your guests. A tailcoat is a major investment for most men, and an evening gown is not something that will be found in everyone’s closet.
Think in advance about what you want your dream wedding to look like and what compromises you are willing to make. For example, can you wear a dark suit instead of a formal tuxedo? Do women have to wear high heels or are elegant flat-soled shoes also allowed?
Mention the dress code right on the invitation and inform your witnesses of any compromises so they can answer questions from guests on the topic.