Is there a dress code needed at a wedding, and most importantly, what should it be? Many people ask this question. It all depends on the wedding scenario, and you shouldn’t leave this important part to chance. After all, the right style of clothing makes it appropriate for a celebration.
Dress code options for a wedding
A certain “dress code” for guests is a necessity. First of all, it creates an internal mood, and, importantly, eliminates unpleasant moments when friends in torn jeans (shorts) and T-shirts, which are absolutely out of place at a celebration, hopelessly ruin memorable photographs.
Whereas the stated conditions precisely determine the outfit’s configuration, from style and length to the choice of accessories and colors.
Therefore, there is no doubt about the need for certain clothes. Moreover, it is quite diverse and can be either very strict or quite democratic.
Black tie (strict style)
It is characterized by the utmost severity of attire.This level is suitable if the wedding is supposed to be luxurious, on a high note. Black tie (“black tie”) for solemn formality emphasizes the status of the celebration.
For women:
- evening-cut dress, best to the floor;
- expensive jewelry;
- high heel, clutch handbag;
- hair styled, evening face makeup.
Important! Loose hair should not fall freely.
For men:
- tuxedo type suit (a formal suit is possible);
- bow tie or regular black tie.
Formal
Similar to Black tie, but more freestyle.
For women: not only a dress is allowed, but also a well-chosen skirt and blouse in the evening.
For men: the same “tuxedo” or a formal suit + tie (necessarily dark color).
Creative Black tie (creative outfit)
It is based on a creative approach and modern fashion trends that distinguish it from strict classics. This is an excellent embodiment of the idea of free choice of outfits for guests, but at the same time the formal style of the wedding evening is emphasized to the maximum.
For women:
- an evening or cocktail dress.
For men:
- jacket, “tuxedo” in a color scheme of your choice (for example, a classic “tuxedo” + a bright-colored vest or an informal tuxedo + a dark shirt (no tie needed);
- “butterfly” and tie in any color.
Festive Attire
It has a lot in common with the cocktail dress code. This variation implies even greater informality of the banquet, the venue of which is a hall in a cafe or even an open space.
For women: during the daytime, the ceremony begins in a smart dress or blouse with a skirt; in the evening, a cocktail outfit (knee-length or midi-length) is preferable.
For men:
- a pair of tailored jackets in gray or dark blue colors;
- tie is optional.
Cocktail
Smart democracy is evident, but solemn theme of the party no one canceled. This is a convenient style for almost all wedding receptions.
For women:
- a cocktail dress, the length of which varies “around the knee”;
- shoes must be closed toe;
- hair can lie loosely over the shoulders, but according to one of the varieties of model hairstyles.
For men:
- jacket pair in dark colors;
- a tie is required.
Semi Formal
In this case, the clothing must be exactly within the specified style. This applies to strictly selected themes of wedding celebrations or their stylized focus. An example is events in a single color scheme, if the owners do not want to violate the chosen specific line.
For women: the created image, together with accessories, is clearly within the stated thematic boundaries or color scheme.
For men:
- A jacket pair with a shirt is best, but a turtleneck is also allowed;
- Instead of a tie, a scarf will do.
Smart Casual (“a little loose”)
You can wear this style to a formal dinner where only family and friends will gather, but this does not mean that you can easily wear jeans and a T-shirt (unless, of course, this has not been announced in advance).
Reference! Smart is just a “flight of fancy”, the style is “a little free”, however, before this you should make some clarifications from the owners: the location of the wedding, suitable shades of color, etc.
For women:
- festive dresses of different lengths or elegant suits with trousers;
- low heel.
For men: light-colored trousers and plain-cut shirts.
Farm Chic
Designed for a rustic or boho-chic wedding, which suggests a relaxed atmosphere somewhere in nature.
For women:
- summer dress made of fabric with a floral print or saraf”;
- Shoes to choose from - sandals, sneakers, cowboy boots.
For men:
- light shirt (short sleeves);
- Chino trousers made of light fabric (beige, sand, dusty pink).
How to announce the dress code at a wedding?
The best option is to write it down in the invitation cards. To avoid any misunderstandings in the future, you should indicate the name of the style and dress code, as well as give a detailed description of the required costume.
Important! It would be better to make an explanation in a separate attachment to the postcard. It should also be taken into account that many people do not know the standard designations of dress codes.
If you doubt whether all guests, especially older people, will correctly understand the nuances of the dress code, talk to each of them specifically. Give an explanation of what this concept means and why this formality is needed.
This will guarantee a uniform style of clothing for guests at the wedding party.
For your information! Any, even the most strict, code standard can be diluted or limited in accordance with the plans of the newlyweds. It is up to you to impose a ban on revealing mini-dresses, sports-style shoes (a good option: suit + sneakers), some combinations of colors and prints (for example, leopard).
But you should still moderate your pickiness and severity towards those invited. As the ancients said - everything excessive is harmful!