Serving Looks, Respecting Vibes: Wedding Dress Code 101
- Tracey Houston
- Jul 2
- 3 min read
Hi Besties, Belles, and Beaus! So you just got invited to a wedding and saw a dress code on the invite that made your brain short-circuit. White tie?? Festive?? Come as you what now? Don’t stress, bestie — we got you. Here's your ultimate guide to every wedding dress code so you can show up serving while still making it make sense.
🕊️ White Tie (aka the Met Gala of Weddings)
The vibe: Peak fancy. Think royalty, red carpets, and like, Downton Abbey if it had Wi-Fi.
What to wear:
Guys: Tailcoat, white vest, white bowtie, gloves (yeah, really).
Girls: Floor-length gown, updo, extra glam.
Basically: If you’re not questioning whether you’re overdressed, you’re not dressed enough.
🖤 Black Tie
The vibe: Still super glam, but not as "Bridgerton extra."
What to wear:
Guys: Tuxedo, bow tie, dress shoes.
Girls: Long gown or a really nice cocktail dress. Heels. Drama.
Basically: You’re dressing for the paparazzi (even if it’s just Aunt Karen’s iPhone 8).
🖤 Formal / Black-Tie Optional
The vibe: Fancy but chill. Like, rich but not trying too hard.
What to wear:
Guys: Tux is optional, a dark suit totally works.
Girls: Long dress, midi, or elevated cocktail dress.
Basically: Pretend you’re going to a Netflix premiere.
🍸 Cocktail
The vibe: Sophisticated but ready to party.
What to wear:
Guys: Suit and tie (or no tie if you’re vibing).
Girls: Knee-length or midi dress, jumpsuit, heels or cute flats.
Basically: Dress like you’re on the cast of Emily in Paris.
💃 Semi-Formal / Dressy Casual
The vibe: Cute but not high maintenance.
What to wear:
Guys: Dress pants + button-down, maybe a blazer.
Girls: Sundress, midi skirt, or something brunch-worthy.
Basically: Think “Pinterest wedding guest inspo” but on a budget.
🎉 Festive
The vibe: Have fun with it, sparkle a little.
What to wear:
Guys: Patterned shirt, colored suit, fun socks — get creative.
Girls: Bright colors, sequins, statement pieces.
Basically: This is your chance to be ✨extra✨ without being too extra.
🧘♀️ Casual
The vibe: Chill. Laid-back. Vibes.
What to wear:
Guys: Polos, khakis, clean sneakers.
Girls: Cute sundress, romper, flats.
Basically: If you’d wear it to a nice lunch, it’ll fly here.
🌴 Tropical / Destination
The vibe: Island energy meets dress code.
What to wear:
Guys: Linen shirt, light pants, loafers or sandals.
Girls: Flowy dress, sandals, tropical prints.
Basically: Dress like you're in a rum commercial, respectfully.
🪩 Concept Style / Themed
The vibe: The couple has a vision, and you're part of the aesthetic.
What to wear:
Read the invite. Follow the vibe. Think Barbiecore, Cottagecore, Great Gatsby, or 90s rave.
Basically: Commit or stay home. It’s giving costume party with a Pinterest board.
🧢 Come As You Are
The vibe: No stress, just vibes.
What to wear:
Whatever makes you comfy and confident. Just don’t show up in pajamas unless that’s the actual theme.
Basically: You do you. Just maybe not Crocs... unless they’re bedazzled.
💡 Wedding Dress Code FAQs
Q: What if I don’t know what to wear?
A: When in doubt, ask the couple (or someone close to them). It’s better to check than show up in gym shorts to a black-tie affair.
Q: Can I wear white?
A: Hard no unless the invite says so. It’s giving main character energy and you’re not the bride.
Q: Do I have to follow the dress code?
A: Technically no, but it’s respectful. Plus, it’s a great excuse to serve a lewk.
Q: What if I have no money for a new outfit?
A: Thrift it, borrow from a friend, or remix what you’ve got. Style is about confidence, not cash.
Final Vibe Check: Weddings are about love, joy, and looking like your best self. So whatever the dress code is, wear it with ✨main character energy✨. When in doubt, ask the bride! You've got this.
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