Wedding Guest Guidelines: Navigating What to Wear & When [Infographic]

Wedding Season is among us. Whether you are tying the knot this season or you’re on the guest lists of a wedding or two (or 5) dressing to fit the overall ambiance is a must! Obviously, no two weddings are alike, and therefore, the notion of wedding dress codes can create some uncertainty. Your invite might read in a few words what is required or maybe the venue implies a specific formality. In many cases, a dress code is socially implied. Regardless, of the wedding event, deciding what to wear to which wedding can be something we question.

As the guests, we want to be dressed appropriately with confidence. As the newlywed couple we want to reflect on the photo albums and the outfits of our guests helps create that picture perfect cohesive wedding day.

Popular wedding style dress codes include White Tie / Black Tie, Black Tie Optional / Hollywood Black Tie, Semi-Formal / Smart Casual, Black Tie Alternative / Creative, & Casual / Country. In many cases a dress code is not explicitly listed on an invite, in these situations consider the location of the event, the season, and the couple. It’s always a good idea to ask other attendees what they plan on wearing, this way you’ll photograph well together and avoid being the only one possibly overdressed or under presentable.

To help further decipher the “What Do I Wear” question. We teamed up with T.M.Lewin the London-based experts of occasional attire. Check out the savvy guide below to help us better understand dress code normalities for both your role in the wedding as well as the attire preferred depending on the setting of the wedding.