Dress Etiquette for Weddings

Because there are many types of weddings, the attire will vary in what is appropriate. Wedding attire can be based on location and formality.

Black Tie Wedding

This is normally an evening wedding. Men should wear a tuxedo with a black bow tie. Women should wear a cocktail dress or long evening gown in neutrals.

Formal or Black Tie Optional Wedding

This is less formal but still calls for formal dress such as a dark formal suit or tuxedo. Women's attire is dressy suits, long dresses or formal-length cocktail dresses.

Beach Wedding

This ceremony calls for formal but also weather-appropriate attire. Men's clothing includes summer suits, linen shirts or pants, khakis and sandals. Women should wear a knee-length sundress with flat sandals.

Semiformal Wedding

This event depends on the time of day. Men should wear a suit and tie--light for day, darker for evening. Women should wear a cocktail dress or fancy skirt and top. The same colors apply.

Casual Wedding

This requires business casual wear. Men can wear dress pants with a button-down shirt or polo. Women can wear a sundress, skirt or pants with a blouse.

Extra Wedding Attire Tips

Don't wear white unless told otherwise, and you can wear black. Keep your dress or skirt knee-length or lower. And bring a wrap or jacket.

References

• The Knot
• Your Wedding 101