The perfect suit for every wedding guest. Discover how to suit up in style with our guide to men’s wedding dress codes.
What To Wear As A Wedding Guest & What Wedding Dress Codes Mean
If the invitation says Cocktail Dress Code
Level of Formality: Medium-high.
Definition: For a cocktail dress code, lean into more relaxed suiting options like chinos and less formal shirts. Interestingly, the cocktail dress code was created to bridge the gap between casual daywear and eveningwear. You’ll want to look casual yet polished, although steer clear of jeans or sneakers.
What to wear to a cocktail dress code wedding: For a cocktail dress code, you can (metaphorically) let your hair down a little. Men’s cocktail dress code has a much higher tolerance for more “fun” colours, but dark colours are the norm for these kinds of outings. Why not experiment with a mix of colours, and levels of formality, and don’t be afraid to explore mismatch-suiting options? For shoes, opt for a lace-up shoe or, if it suits, a polished loafer.
If the invitation says Semi Formal Dress Code
Level of Formality: Medium to high.
Definition: For this wedding, wear a suit and tie, but not a tuxedo.
What to wear to a semi-formal wedding: As far as wedding dress codes go, this one heavily depends on the weather, the location of the wedding, and the time of day. If, for example, it’s a wedding in the winter months at an outdoor location, lean into dark colours and heavier fabrics. For warmer weather weddings, suits tend to be lighter colours and fabrics. For this wedding dress code, a collared shirt is a must, and a tie is highly recommended. If you decide not to wear a tie, a pocket square will help elevate the look. Don’t forget to match your belt with your shoes.
If the invitation says Black Tie Dress Code
Level of Formality: High.
Definition: Black Tie denotes the wearing of a tuxedo. Black tie is the most common dress code. Most award ceremonies, galas, and some weddings are black tie occasions.
What to wear to a Black Tie Wedding: For a Black Tie event, a black tuxedo with a classic peak lapel will always suit. Most black tie events will require a bowtie, although you may see some people opting for a straight necktie. Tradition states that your shirt should have French cuffs, but barrel cuffs are also acceptable. A French cuff shirt features a length of fabric that is folded back upon itself and fastened with cufflinks, whereas a barrel cuff is held in place with a button. Pair black dress socks with shoes that are polished and dark in colour.
If the invitation says Black Tie Optional Dress Code
Level of Formality: High.
Definition: For this wedding, you have the option of a black tie or just a formal suit.
What to wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding: Try to follow the rules for a black tie event, although you are allowed to add in extra elements if you wish. If you decide not to wear a tuxedo, wear your most formal suit in a simple colour like black, navy, white, or grey. Remember that most people at the wedding may be in Black Tie, so opt for an ensemble that feels formal enough for you to fit in.
Beach, Winery, Garden, And More: How to Dress For Each Wedding Venue
What to wear for a garden wedding
Often held during the summer months, dressing for the heat is a must for a beach wedding. Lean into lighter-coloured pieces in linen or cotton to help keep you cool – beige, white, tan, light blue and greys are all great options. For a simple yet timeless look, we love crisp white linen paired with a sand-coloured jacket and pants. Add a colour pop to the ensemble with a colourful pocket square.
What to wear for a garden wedding
Whimsical and magical, garden weddings often vary in formality and energy from a marquis on a manicured lawn to nuptials under fairy lights amongst nature. For a garden wedding, leave your traditional black suit at home. Instead, don a suit in navy, dark greens, reds, and other rich tones, and a lighter patterned shirt in a colour like cream, soft blue, or paisley. Pair it with a blazer in blue, indigo, or even a softer navy, and chinos in white, sand, or beige. If you choose not to wear a tie, wear a patterned or floral pocket square to help elevate your look.
What to wear for a winery wedding
A winery wedding calls for an elegant yet laid-back dress code. Whether held amongst the vineyard itself or overlooking the sprawling hills, keep it relaxed yet elevated with a grey, blue or cream blazer over a simple shirt. You can opt for a little detailing on the shirt, such as florals or patterns, but it’s best to stick to more subtle features. Match your pants to your jacket for a sleek finish. For a little colour pop, we love a patterned pocket square moment as it bounces off the clean lines of the blazer and pants.
What to wear for a country wedding
Whether a rustic farmhouse or overlooking the outback, country weddings often have a warm charm to them. Make the most of this quaint yet grand environment with a classic modern check shirt. Add a little warmth to the ensemble by choosing a check in soft blues, pinks, yellows, and greens. For jackets, a baby blue or beige blazer will always be a good choice, especially when paired with tan or sand-coloured dress pants. For accessories, keep it light and easy with a tonal paisley tie or pocket square, and some polished dress shoes or loafers.
Discover more about event dressing and wedding dress codes with our instalment of Style Guide: How to Master Men’s Event Dressing, with PR and communications specialist, Adam Worling.