RSVP Ready: Wedding Guest Outfits by Dress Code

Struggling to figure out the appropriate dress code for a wedding? Let us help! Dressing for a wedding can be a bit tricky due to the specific guidelines for each level of formality.

However, there’s no need to worry; our stylists are here to help you decode your wedding invitation and style a fabulous look you’ll feel incredible in. We’ve assisted numerous clients in selecting outfits for weddings of all kinds, whether local or international, daytime or black-tie; we’ve got you covered!

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Variables to consider when preparing for a wedding:

  • Location
    • The venue location will tell you a lot about the formality of the wedding; for example, if a wedding is taking place in a big city or internationally, opt for a more elevated look.
  • Time of ceremony and reception
    • For a daytime wedding, we love playing with lighter colors and more casual fabrics, such as knits and linens, versus a nighttime wedding where satins and silks are the norm.
  • Color of bridesmaids’ dresses
    • We always recommend avoiding wearing the same color as the bridesmaids if possible.
  • Invite formality
    • Sometimes overlooked, the physical wedding invitation usually offers hints on what to expect during the wedding. If the invitation feels formal, anticipate a formal wedding.
  • What the men are expected to wear
    • Wedding dress codes for men tend to be a little more strict than those for women. Look to your date to set the tone for how formal you will both be. If he’s unsure about what to wear to an upcoming wedding, it’s time to give us a call.

 

Daytime

DRESS | WRAP | SHOE | BAG | EARRING | HAIR PIN 

For a daytime wedding we love playing with bright colors and lighter fabrics. We love this green linen dress from Reformation paired with a wooden clutch for a fresh, daytime feel. When dressing for a slightly less formal event we love the addition of accessories. This gold hairpin ensures that even a messy bun looks chic. To top off the look we’ve added a light shawl for church ceremonies or chilly nights.

SPORT COAT | SHIRT | PANT | SHOE | TIE | BELT

When it comes to getting ready for a wedding, lets be honest, the men have it somewhat easy. They can typically fall back on a trusty suit in their closet; however, for a daytime wedding, it’s okay to change it up with a sport coat and pant look. The key here is to keep the look elevated by having the right fit and accessories. This look includes a Peter Millar sport coat paired with a crisp tan pant from Zegna. The sport coat is a wool, silk, and linen blend with a subtle herringbone pattern. It gives spring vibes while still keeping you wedding-appropriate. By adding a pop of color with the tie, elevated shoes, and belt, you’re sure to be among the best-dressed at the wedding.

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Cocktail

DRESS | SHOE | BAG | RING | EARRING | SUNGLASSES

Wedding Season is upon us! We all love a LBD, and if you ask us, you definitely need one in your wardrobe. However, this season, try to switch it up a little by introducing a color to your wedding guest attire. We love this halter-neck dress by SIR. in a beautiful butter-yellow that will look amazing on most skin tones. The color functions nicely as a neutral, but adds a bit of the spring freshness that we are all craving. We are still seeing a lot of warm brown and burgundy this spring and summer season, so don’t be afraid to utilize accessories in this color to add some depth and interest to your look, instead of the typical beige or black. It pairs back to colors beautifully. Top the look off with sculptured gold jewelry and you’re ready to celebrate!

 

SUIT | SHIRT | SHOE | TIE | BELT

For a cocktail wedding we always dress our male clients in a suit. To add some personality, we love bringing in texture and color. This brown Todd Snyder suit is perfect for a springtime wedding; it feels elevated and more intriguing than a traditional grey or black suit. Pair your suit with light-colored accessories and a textured shoe to add elements of interest.

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Black-tie

DRESS | SHOE | BAG | EARRING | BRACELET

We love all the details when choosing black-tie wedding attire. It allows the client to really show their style. This dress is the perfect combination of modern and sophisticated. We love the cape detail for the lady who wants coverage on her arms, but doesn’t need a full sleeve. This shape of the dress is perfect for a variety of silhouettes. The gold accessories add a modern edge to the shade of blue in the dress!
A tuxedo is a must for a black-tie wedding. This one from Etro achieves the perfect classic fit while still maintaining a modern look. No outfit is complete without the perfect shoe and this one from Giuseppe Zanotti is exactly that.

 

*Cover image via @biancatuzee
Wedding season is here! Contact us to ensure you are ready for your next wedding.
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Elizabeth Bean Smith

Elizabeth is the Founder & Co-Owner of Wardrobe Therapy. She founded the company in 2006 for individuals seeking help with their personal style and image.

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