Not sure what “cocktail attire” or “black tie optional” really means? Wedding dress codes can be confusing, but they don’t have to be. In this Guide to Wedding Dress Codes, we’ll break down the most common wedding dress codes, from casual backyard celebrations to elegant black-tie evenings, so you’ll always know exactly what to wear. Whether you’re a guest trying to nail the perfect outfit or a couple setting expectations for your big day, consider this your go-to resource for all things wedding style.
Casual
When you see casual on a wedding invitation it doesn’t mean ripped up jeans and a graphic t-shirt casual, think more so Sunday-best summer dresses or chinos with a button down shirt. Stay away from flip flops and hoodies and think more so summer garden party vibes.
Check out my Pinterest board with Casual Wedding Guest Dress Attire here.
Festive
If you’ve never heard of a “festive” dress code for weddings, then we’re in this together since I too did not know what Festive meant for a wedding before doing my research for this post. Typically it means a blend of elegant cocktail and semi-formal dresses while dressing with more flair and personality. If you prefer suits you can pair a nice pair of slacks with a colorful or patterned blazer. Think bright colors and fun patterns paired with statement accessories.
Destination or Beach Wedding
Basically anything the cast of Mamma Mia wears at the end of the movie for Sophie’s wedding. White pants and a breezy button down, or a summer dress you can dance in the waves in. You can always elevate the look with some accessories and statement shoes.
Cocktail
Now here’s when we start to get a little fancier- cocktail dresses are typically shorter but still quite elegant, they can be more form fitting or flared for the perfect spin while dancing. And for those who prefer pants you’ll want either nice slacks and a blazer, or a well fitting suit.
Check out my Pinterest board with Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress Attire here.
Semi-Formal
Semi-formal dresses are longer and typically go down past the knees- but they’re more elevated than a summer dress. Materials wise you may want lace, satin, tulle, chiffon or crepe. Alternatively a suit and tie will fit the bill for semi-formal. And if you’re going with a date you can pair your tie to match their outfit in some way- whether with a matching color or similar pattern.
Check out my Pinterest board with Semi-Formal Wedding Guest Dress Attire here.
Formal
For a formal dress code you’ll want either an elegant floor length gown or a dark suit with a shirt button up and bowtie. Think of a Formal dress code as being the difference of what you’d wear to Prom (formal) versus Homecoming (which may be closer to semi-formal or cocktail wear).
Check out my Pinterest board with Formal Wedding Guest Dress Attire here.
Black-Tie
Black-Tie is the most formal with floor length, elegant evening ball gowns (nothing above the knee), but most importantly if you or your partner is wearing a suit then a tuxedo with a black tie and cumberbund is necessary. Black Tie Optional means a tuxedo isn’t necessary, but it is preferred. If you plan to wear a dress or pantsuit, formal and black tie can be more interchangeable.
Check out my Pinterest board with Black Tie Wedding Guest Dress Attire here.
Oregon Wedding & Elopement Photographer
Hi there, I’m Olivia! An lgbtq+ affirming Oregon Coast elopement and wedding photographer based in Portland, Oregon. I’ve always been inspired by fairytales and fantasy growing up, with my work evoking that of a storybook romance come to life.
I specialize in images that truly capture the beauty of the nature around you; not only documenting events but weaving them into captivating visual stories that celebrate love in its most enchanting form.
From breathtaking landscapes to intimate, candid moments, I help couples plan their dream day in nature’s most magical settings. If you envision your day as a harmonious blend of intimacy and natural splendor, you’ve come to the right place.
Let’s make your day feel like a fairytale come to life! Click here to inquire with me
Oregon Wedding & Elopement Packages
Elopement packages start at 4 hours of coverage at $2,500 and include a high resolution online gallery with printing rights, over 200 digital images, with no cap set on the amount of photos you will receive.
Wedding packages start at 5 hours of coverage at $2,875 and include over 250 digital images (there’s no cap on the amount of photos you’ll receive) with high resolution images available in an online gallery with printing rights.
My most popular package includes 6 hours of coverage at $3,500, over 400 digital images, a high resolution online gallery with printing rights, and a complimentary engagement session.
To see more of my packages and offerings click here.
More Wedding Planning Resources
How to Elope on the Oregon Coast
What to Include in the Flat-Lay for your Wedding Details
10 Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding Day
How to get Married at Hoyt Arboretum
PNW Wedding Inspiration
Intimate Backyard Wedding in Spokane, Washington
Oregon Coast Elopement at Rockaway Beach
