What to Wear to a Wedding as a Guest: The Complete Dress Code Guide
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The invitation has arrived, and somewhere at the bottom there are two words that decide everything: the dress code. Here is how to read it - and which wedding guest dress to buy for each one.
Black tie
The most formal dress code you are likely to meet. Choose a floor-length gown in a rich fabric: satin, crepe or chiffon. Dark and jewel colours - navy, burgundy, emerald, black - always look right in the evening. A structured bodice and a long, clean skirt, like our evening dresses, photograph beautifully and stay comfortable through dinner and dancing.
Formal or black tie optional
A long dress is still the safest choice, but an elegant midi works too. This is the moment for a corset bodice with a flowing skirt: formal enough for the ceremony, easy enough for the dance floor.
Cocktail
Knee-length or midi dresses, a little more playful. Think a boned corset dress with a full skirt, pastel colours in the daytime and deeper tones after six.
Garden party or beach wedding
Lighter fabrics, lighter colours, flatter shoes. Cotton, chiffon and georgette breathe in the heat; floral details and soft yellow, blue or pink feel right outdoors. A side slit helps you walk on grass and sand.
Colours to avoid
- White, ivory and cream - reserved for the bride, unless the invitation says otherwise.
- The bridesmaids' colour, if you know it.
- Head-to-toe sparkle at a daytime ceremony - save it for the evening reception.
Five rules that always work
- When in doubt, dress one step more formal than you think.
- Check the venue: a cathedral, a vineyard and a beach need different shoes.
- Choose a dress you can sit, eat and dance in - test it at home.
- Bring a wrap or blazer for the evening.
- Order early enough to exchange the size if you need to.
Ready to choose? Shop all wedding guest dresses or use our size guide to get the fit right first time.