When choosing wedding guest attire, many rules and myths come to mind, like avoiding white to not upstage the bride—a guideline ingrained in most, even those who’ve never attended a wedding. Beyond well-known etiquette, lesser-known tips can help guests dress appropriately for this joyous occasion.
For Men
While women have more attire options for formal events, men face important choices too. For informal weddings, a dress shirt and pants suffice; for formal events, a suit or even a tuxedo—if the invitation specifies “black tie”—is ideal. Outdoor weddings, increasingly popular, require considering weather and setting. A suit may be too formal for a family farm wedding. Here are key tips for men:
- Daytime weddings are not for tuxedos, even if highly formal.
- Blue jeans, cargo pants, or shorts are off-limits unless the invitation explicitly allows them.
- Avoid open-toe shoes or sandals like Birkenstocks.
- Leave baseball caps, wild print ties or socks, graphic tees, or jackets at home.
Choose sleek, well-fitted clothing you’d wear around a colleague or superior—ironed, free of bold graphics or prints, and elegant enough to reflect class.
Women’s and Children’s Attire
Women often struggle to choose wedding attire due to abundant options and etiquette stigmas. Many opt for a safe cocktail dress, hoping it fits. Dressing for a wedding needn’t be stressful—follow these tips for any venue or time:
- For informal or semi-formal weddings, a cocktail dress or suit works well. For formal events, choose a short or floor-length dress based on the time and venue.
- For black or white tie events, a long gown with glamorous accessories is appropriate.
- Avoid white unless paired with bold colors or accessories to distinguish you from the bride.
- Steer clear of overly revealing clothing, like low-cut tops or short skirts, and opt for occasion wear.
The focus should remain on the bride and groom. Avoid ostentatious hats, handbags, or jewelry—let the bride shine.
For Kids and Young Adults
Children enjoy the most lenient dress codes, as they’re often seen as charming regardless of attire. However, play clothes, like matching jumpsuits or jeans, are too casual. Dress children according to the adult dress code. For semi-formal weddings, girls should wear dresses, and boys should wear dress pants or polo shirts. Babies, often held or in carriers, are an exception, as their outfits are less visible.
Young adults should follow similar guidelines, ensuring clothes suit the venue and time, are freshly pressed, and free of stains or tears. Weddings aren’t the place for distressed denim, spaghetti-strap tank tops, or baseball caps. A pair of slacks with a button-down shirt or a knee-length skirt with a tasteful top suits nearly any wedding.
