A Wedding Guest Style Guide: What That Dress Code Really Means
Ever received a wedding invitation and immediately Googled what “Black-Tie Optional” or “Dressy Casual” really means? Or wondering what to tell your guests to wear? You’re not alone! Dress codes can feel confusing, but they’re actually helpful clues to making sure guests feel confident and appropriately dressed for the couple’s big day.
Whether you're attending or having a glamorous evening affair or a laid-back beach celebration, here’s your go-to guide on the top wedding dress codes and what they actually mean. Save this graphic below for quick reference and never second-guess your outfit again!
✨ Top Wedding Dress Codes Explained
1. White-Tie
Think: The Oscars.
This is the most formal of all. Men wear black tailcoats, white shirts, waistcoats, and bow ties. Women wear full-length evening gowns—think ultra-glam.
2. Black-Tie
Elegant and classic.
Men wear tuxedos with black bow ties, cummerbunds or vests, and polished shoes. Women wear formal floor-length gowns or elevated cocktail dresses.
3. Black-Tie Optional / Formal
Not quite tux-required, but close.
Men can wear tuxedos or a dark suit and tie. Women should opt for a formal dress—either long or dressy midi.
4. Semi-Formal / Dressy Casual
Somewhere between business casual and formal.
Men wear slacks and a dress shirt (jacket optional). Women can wear a nice dress, skirt and blouse, or a dressy jumpsuit.
5. Beach Formal
Yes, it’s still dressy—even if it’s sandy.
Men should wear light-colored linen pants or suits, no tie required. Women should wear a lightweight maxi or midi dress with dressy sandals or wedges (no heels in the sand!).
6. Casual
But not jeans-and-a-tee casual.
Men can wear khakis and a button-down. Women can go with sundresses or a simple blouse and skirt.
Bonus Tips:
Always follow any cultural or religious attire notes the couple includes.
When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
If you’re still unsure, reach out to the couple (or the wedding planner!)—they’ll appreciate your effort.
We love capturing weddings of all styles, and guests who come dressed to fit the vibe make the whole day even more picture-perfect. Still need outfit inspo? Scroll through some of our recent blog posts and you’ll see every kind of dress code in action—from beach chic to ballroom glam.
📸 Planning your own wedding and not sure how to communicate the style to your guests? Let’s chat!
