The dress code of your wedding can be a difficult choice to make – often a little Goldilocks in approach – you want it to be JUST RIGHT. It is right there on the invitation – one of those first sneak peeks for your guests into what they can expect the vibe of your wedding to be and on the day your dress code really cements the tone and feel as your guests create the look and feel with their attire.  

 

As a guest your hosts have put a lot of thought into how they want the day to look – and you are not only the people they want to share their public declaration of love, a million laughs, too many champagnes and embarrassing dance moves with –  you also make up the final part of the decor with your attire because how you dress, en masse, helps set the tone of the day.

 

As a Bridey, deciding on a dress code can sometimes be a topic of contention with your future Husbandido and potentially with your family also. Tradition and expectations can come into play, and even the wording you use can cause a discussion or two. You need to take into consideration the time of year your wedding is taking place, your chosen venue and the feel and style you want to portray at your wedding.

 

Your wedding dress code shouldn’t be something to keep your guests guessing. It should be clear, concise and to the point. Here are some guidelines for your guests – as well as some helpful little explanations for you to assist with deciding what dress code would be perfect for your wedding:

 

WHITE TIE.
Babes: Think floor length, dress to the nines.
Boys: A dress coat/full black tail coat, black trousers, white shirt, white  bow tie.

When do you see this? The most formal of dress codes reserved for very upscale weddings traditionally taking place after 6pm.

 

BLACK TIE.
Babes: A floor length or ankle-length gown, think a formal dinner dress.
Boys: a black dinner suit (a little more flexible on colour these days – can be a darker tone), white dinner shirt and bow tie.

When do you see this? For a wedding taking place post 4:30pm. If you are not a fan of the terminology ‘black tie’ you can substitute this with ‘formal’ on your invitation.

 

MORNING SUIT.
Babes: A day dress, a suit and you can get a little creative with a hat.
Boys: black or grey tail coat with black or grey striped trousers, waistcoat and tie.

When do you see this? For a formal daytime wedding pre 4:30pm.

 

LOUNGE SUIT.
Babes: a day dress for a daytime wedding, or follow the cocktail dress code for an evening wedding.
Boys:  Suit in navy, grey or lighter tones are acceptable, with shirt and tie and pocket square.

When do you see this? This is a very popular dress code for less formal Australian weddings, both daytime and evening.

 

COCKTAIL.
Babes: Knee-length dress, jewellery (can be bold or costume), evening clutch and heels. A pantsuit or dressy jumpsuit is also acceptable, as are bright colours and prints.
Boys: Black suit with white shirt and necktie.

When do you see this? For a wedding after 5pm.

 

SMART CASUAL.
Babes: can wear a dress, or a blouse and skirt or trousers. Heels, and a bag larger in size to a clutch. (No jeans.)
Boys: Collared shirt worn under a blazer or dress coat with trousers or casual slacks such as chinos, tie not necessary. (No jeans.)

When do you see this? Mostly seen at daytime weddings. A more casual approach.

 

INFORMAL.
Babes: can wear a more casual dress, skirt or trousers – no jeans.
Boys: Keep it simple. A jacket is not entirely necessary – no jeans.

When do you see this? Often suitable for a casual beach or garden wedding. 

 
*above based on Australian guidelines

 

What about wearing white? These days, anything goes. As a guest, I personally would not wear a white full length gown – however if it does resemble ‘bridal’ it’s usually not a problem. If unsure, the best thing to do in this situation is to ask a member of the bridal party if wearing white would be a problem.

 

And black? This is totally a-ok.  Try to add in some colour somewhere i.e. try not to resemble a funeral-goer. Mother of the groom – hopefully you are not in mourning – steer clear of head to toe black or check with your future daughter in law if she is ok with you rocking this ‘hue’.

 

And a few more tips…

 

ONE.

When listing your dress code on your invitation, make sure the wording is easily understood by all demographics of guests. Your Great Grandude to your 21 year old cousin should be able to clearly understand what you are expecting them to wear.

 

TWO.

Now is not the time to wear anything too skimpy or provocative. Keep the hemline down and the ta-ta’s in.

 

THREE.

If you decide to wear a hat that will block the view of the guests behind you, remove it for the ceremony.