You’ve got the invitation and you’re saving the date. But choosing what to wear to a wedding isn’t always as simple as pulling something from your closet. From navigating modern dress codes to choosing the best accessories, we’re going beyond wedding guest dresses to break down everything you need to celebrate in style.
Wedding Dress Codes Explained
Formal & Black Tie
The most formal of all wedding attire, this dress code calls for an elegant, elevated look. Floor-length gowns are the general rule of thumb, but midi dresses that hit past the knee can also be appropriate. Heels, a clutch, and jewelry complete the look.
Cocktail
Somewhere between black-tie and casual, cocktail attire is festive but not overly formal. Try a knee-length, tea, or midi dress, and finish the look with heels or flats, a clutch, and party-ready accessories.
Beach & Destination
Destination weddings tend to be more casual. Hemlines can either be short or long, and prints and bright colors are encouraged. One non-negotiable? Stick to wedges or flat sandals to avoid getting stuck in the sand.
The Wedding Party
Mother of the Bride or Groom
Because it’s a big day for her, too. Between the walk down the aisle and the framed pictures that will long decorate her home, every mom needs an incredible dress. Favorite styles include sophisticated long-sleeved maxis and off-the-shoulder gowns in pale pastels, rich jewel tones, and chic champagnes.
Bridesmaids
The bride traditionally helps choose what her party will wear, and our selection is unparalleled. From classic to modern, cocktail to formal, knee length to floor sweeping, we have bridesmaid dresses in every shade and style.
Must-have Accessories
Best-Selling Styles
FAQs
-
The venue often influences the overall vibe, right down to the dresses. For a beach or garden wedding, a flowy floral and wedges make it easy to walk—and dance!—in the natural setting, while a ballroom reception often cues a more formal gown and heels.
-
You absolutely can wear black to a wedding. An antiquated rule, opinions have shifted over the years and black is now widely considered to be not just perfectly acceptable, but chic, too.
-
As a general rule, daytime or courthouse weddings tend to be a bit more casual than evening affairs. It’s a great opportunity for women to wear a chic jumpsuit or suit, a sleek midi dress, or a flowy maxi. Men can wear a dress shirt and tie or skip the tie and pair an elegant knit polo with a blazer and trousers.
-
Even if you are attending a wedding that takes place entirely indoors, you should still aim to dress for the season. Rich fabrics like velvet, brocade, and faux fur are perfect for a fall or winter wedding, while silks, chiffons, lace, and cotton work better in spring and summer.
-
It depends on how formal the event. A tuxedo or formal black suit should be paired with black dress shoes. If the wedding is more casual, suede loafers or even a pair of sneakers can be worn. If you decide to go with the latter, just make sure they are clean and streamlined—not a chunky athletic style.
More Guides
Build Your Bridal Wardrobe
From the engagement party and rehearsal dinner to the after-party and honeymoon, we have bride-to-be dresses for every surrounding event.
The Lingerie Guide
As the foundation of every outfit, the right fit and style of your underpinnings are key. Our helpful guide breaks down the basics of your base layers.
The Registry
You’ve chosen a wedding date, so now the real fun can begin! Let us be your one-stop shop for everything you need to build a registry filled with things you’ll use—and love—for years to come.