A Beginner's Guide to Wedding Attire

Do you have an upcoming wedding to attend and aren’t sure what to wear? Or are your own nuptials coming up and you aren’t sure what dress code to choose? Whether you have an upcoming wedding or are going to attend a wedding in the near future, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of wedding attire. Here is a quick cheat sheet for beginners. 

White Tie

White is the most formal of all wedding attire. At a white tie wedding, women typically wear floor-length gowns accessorized with elegant jewelry and high heels. Meanwhile, men sport tuxedos with tails, formal white vests, shirts, and bowties. 

Black Tie

Black-tie weddings are typically evening events. At a black-tie wedding, women usually wear floor-length gowns or classy cocktail dresses. Women might also consider wearing elegant pantsuits. Men, on the other hand, are typically required to wear tuxedos with a black bowtie, black vest, and formal dress shoes. 

Formal

Formal (or black-tie optional) weddings are just slightly less formal than black-tie events. Both men and women can wear what’s typical of a black-tie event or they can choose to dress down just a bit. For example, women may wear a floor-length gown or one that’s just slightly shorter (showing the ankles). Men may wear a tuxedo or opt for a classy black suit and tie. 

Cocktail

Cocktail attire is just another step below formal attire. For cocktail attire, dresses can be tea-length (usually stopping right above the ankle), knee-length, or midi. Men should wear suits and ties, even if the wedding is outdoors. 

Semi-Formal (or Dressy Casual)

Semi-formal wedding attire can vary depending on the time of the event. If you are attending a daytime wedding with a semi-formal dress code, consider wearing lighter colors. If the wedding is an evening event, you may want to consider darker colors. Dresses can be below the knee but floor-length gowns would be too formal. Women can also opt for a skirt and blouse combination or an elegant pantsuit. Men can wear dress shirts and slacks. Ties are generally optional at semi-formal weddings.

Casual

Just as they sound, casual weddings have a very relaxed dress code. However, you should avoid dressing too casually at these types of events. For example, you should probably avoid wearing sneakers, regular sandals, t-shirts, and tank tops to any wedding. For women at a casual wedding, you may consider wearing a sundress with wedges or dressy sandals. Men can wear khakis or dress pants paired with a collared shirt. If men want to dress it up a bit, they can opt for a tie or sports jacket.

Jewelry for Wedding Guests

If you're also wondering what type of jewelry you should wear with your outfit, here are tips!

• Keep it simple: As a wedding guest, it's considered impolite to draw too much attention to yourself because the focus should be on the couple. For that reason, it's best to keep your jewelry simple and elegant rather than flashy. 
• Choose classic pieces: If you're not sure what jewelry items are appropriate for wedding guests, you can't go wrong with pearls! Pearls necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings are classic items that will complement any wedding attire. 
• Consider the wedding attire: Wedding attire plays a role in the jewelry you should choose. If the event is a black tie, you can wear fancier, higher end jewelry pieces. If the wedding is more casual, choose more casual jewelry items. 
• Complement your outfit: The jewelry you choose should complement your individual outfit. For example, if you're wearing a dress with lots of colors or a bold print, keep your jewelry basic. If you're going with a simple solid color dress, you can get away with a little more. If your dress has an interesting neckline, you might want to skip a necklace and stick to earrings and rings. 

This cheat sheet should help you dress for the next wedding you attend and maybe even on the dress code for your own special day! 

Stop in Soon at Koser Jewelers!

If you are in need of jewelry for your next event, come see us at Koser Jewelers! We can help you find the perfect pieces to complement your outfit. While we’re at it, why not get the rest of your jewelry shined up while you’re here? Jewelry cleaning is quick, free, and will leave you feeling like a million bucks! Stop in anytime or give us a call at 717-653-4941.