Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting times of your life. As you make various decisions, an important aspect to consider is coordinating with your guests since they will share in your special day. It is vital to clearly set your expectations for your guests in order to help your vision to come to life. Making them aware of your preferred attire will allow your day to move along seamlessly. If you need some inspiration for addressing this common aspect, here is how to advise your wedding guests on your dress code. You can also check out this wedding Planner book for more planning tips.
Determine Your Dress Code
Before you can give your guests any information, you must decide on an official dress code for partygoers. It is important to align this choice with your venue, time of year, and overall aesthetic of the celebration. For example, if your wedding is outdoors in July, consider guiding guests toward a semi-formal summery look. Your guests will follow your lead, so be sure to choose from one of these great dress code options:
White Tie
While it is not as common today, white tie remains the epitome of formality in wedding dress codes. For insights into what this entails, including men wearing tuxedos with tails and women in formal, floor-length gowns, visit Charmy Now’s guide on wedding guest dress styles. For bridesmaid dresses and bridal attire, consider exploring Kennedy Blue.
Black Tie
A popular option for formal evening weddings, black tie includes suits or tuxedos and floor-length dresses. This option gives your event an air of elegance, and your guests will look sharp.
Formal or Black Tie Optional
This event is slightly less formal than traditional black-tie events; it encourages guests to dress their very best, without making it a strict requirement. This could mean floor-length gowns and suits, but also allows for brighter colors and patterns for a more casual yet elegant look. For a variety of dressy bridesmaid and guest dresses that fit this theme, check out Dessy’s collection.
Cocktail or Semi-Formal
The most common and classic choice for wedding dress codes, cocktail balances formal and casual. For example, women often opt for their favorite little black dresses while men match with comfortable suits. However, guests can choose to play around more with colors, styles, and patterns.
Casual
More laid back than lavish, casual dress codes aim for cute comfort. While guests shouldn’t arrive in jeans and a sweater, they will likely choose lightweight dresses or slacks and nice shirts.
Put the Information in the Invitation
Once you’ve decided on your dress code, make sure your guests are fully aware of your expectations. When sending save the dates and official invitations, clearly state your expected attire. As long as partygoers are knowledgeable, they will surely appease your desires.
Create an Online Inspiration or Mood Board
To ensure there are no surprises on your big day, create a mood board for your guests to consult when selecting their outfits. Include a link to your online inspiration in the invitation to make it easily accessible. By assisting guests in finding the perfect party dress or shirt and tie, you can help your friends and family dress appropriately for the day of your dreams.
After learning how to advise your wedding guests on your dress code, you can clearly communicate your wishes to bring your bridal aesthetic to life. Happy planning!
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