You probably have received an invitation at some point of your life, for a wedding or other ceremonies like proms, for example, that requires a certain dress code. And that’s also a big chance that you’ve felt a little confused by it, right?
There are many types of dress codes that the couples can choose for their special day. If you’re a guest or are planning a wedding, we will help you understand what are the most common dress codes and how they’re determined – and how you can fit your style into these codes as well.
How are the dress codes determined?
Usually, the dress codes are set with the venues and decoration, for example, and it’s best if you have already figured that out. More formal wedding requires more sophisticated and/or fancy decorations. More informal can be more modern and minimalistic. The background often sets the tone, so make sure to think of that as well.
Do you want it to be in a field or in a church? Beach and summer? Fall and indoor? It’s all questions that need to be answered before you choose your dress code.
If you are a couple-to-be-married and are trying to figure out how you want your guests attire to be, you have to think of your own styles first. It’s pretty common that weddings require formal attire, but you want that at your wedding?
Think of yourselves: how do you usually want to go dressed in a wedding? How do you feel more comfortable? What do you think that suits best for the occasion?
The most common dress codes
If you still don’t have an idea of how to choose a dress code for your special day, we will explain to you what are the most common types.
White-Tie
This is the most formal attire, like dinner with the President style. For women, it is advisable to wear a long evening gown, with jewelry, heels and a clutch. Men’s attires are tuxedos with tails, white shirt, white vest and bow tie, with white or gray gloves and formal shoes.
Black-Tie
This is the most common dress code for an evening wedding event. This type of style requires long-length gowns, a sophisticated dress or a formal pantsuit. As for men, tuxedos with black bow ties and leather shoes.
Formal Dress Code
This is less formal than the black-tie. However, it still requires sophistication. The attires are more or less the same as the black-tie, but it’s more acceptable to wear dresses that show the ankles. For men, they can choose to wear tuxedos, but wearing formal clothes are still the options.
Cocktail Dress Code
This type of dress code is still less formal than the black-tie. It’s the balance between comfortable and sophisticated, and usually is the choice for day weddings, being more casual than night celebrations. Women can opt for midi dresses, knee-length. Men should wear a suit and tie.
Festive
Although it’s a new dress code, you shouldn’t be afraid to pick it, if it suits the couple’s personality. It’s basically to give the option for your guests to choose their outfits and have fun while doing it. Women should wear cocktail attires combined with colorful accessories. Men can choose a sport suit, with bright tie or creative pocket square.
Casual Dress Code
This means that the event will be more laid-back. Summer dresses and dressy sandals are the go to! For men, dress pants or khaki pants with collared shirts are the perfect choice!
Come As You Are
This time of dress code may confuse your guests, but basically, if you don’t care about how they’re dressed and just want them to be comfortable and to show the world who they are, it is the best option for your wedding. If you want to help your guests, you can give them some examples of how you expect them to wear, or what you don’t want to see on your big day.
Now that you know some of the most common dress codes, we’ll talk about how to talk to your guests about it. For example, in your wedding invitation.
How to help your guests with the dress code
Whichever dress code you choose for your wedding, your guests may be confused by it. And it’s getting pretty normal for the bride and groom to skip this information in the invitations.
It’s pretty important that you choose and tell your guests what your dress code is. It’ll save you a lot of time answering the same question over and over again. You can also give them hints in the font, colors and wording in your invitation.
But if you want them to be assertive, it’s best if you come across the subject right in the beginning and also give them examples (like we’ve given you during this article) to be properly dress for your special day.
If you still have doubts on what to choose, you should contact us here at CBW right now. We’re specialists in wedding planning and events and we’ll happily help you with the big decisions!
Contact us right now.