The Ultimate Dress Code Guide for Wedding Guests

Wedding season has officially kicked off and with it comes the age-old question "What am I supposed to wear?" From formal ballroom receptions to beach vows, deciphering dress codes can feel daunting; don't fret though- DressSoul has your needs covered.

We have designed the ultimate guide to assist with every wedding dress code with confidence and style. No matter if it is black-tie formal or boho garden casual, these foolproof outfit formulas will have you looking incredible without overshadowing other guests at their celebrations.

Black Tie Event Attire
When an invitation says black-tie event, bring out your best - this means floor-length gowns in luxurious fabrics with statement jewelry to complement them and elevate their elegance.

Choose satin, velvet or chiffon pieces with sleek silhouettes in satin velvet or chiffon to add just enough drama without overdoing it. A high slit or open back adds just the right amount of drama; neither too little nor too much can occur here.

Purchase This Look: SARAPHINA Satin One-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Midnight Allure Black Strapless Mermaid Dress.

Style Tip: Accessorize your dress with strappy heels, delicate drop earrings and a small clutch bag for the ideal ensemble. Avoid white, cream or anything too bridal as that should be reserved for couples of the hour only.

Cocktail Attire: An Ideal Option
For wedding events with evening ceremonies, cocktail attire is always the safe bet. Dressy without overstepping formal boundaries, cocktail wear fits seamlessly with most evening wedding events.

Look for mid or knee-length dresses made of luxurious materials like silk, crepe and lace that combine sophistication with prints or textures, but remain chic and cohesive.

Shop Amara Rust Halter Slip Midi Dress Now.

Elise Floral Jacquard A-Line Midi Dress.

Style Tip: Add an accent of personality by accessorizing with statement earrings or an eye-catching clutch; however, be cautious not to outshimmer the bride-to-be by donning sequins that might overshadow her look.

Garden or Outdoor Weddings: Easy and Romantic Weddings held outdoors call for airy fabrics in earthy tones, featuring flowing silhouettes, floral prints, or dresses designed to move with you; all will photograph beautifully under natural lighting conditions.

Shop this Look: Paloma Multi Floral Maxi Dress

Joya Green Tiered Ruffle Midi Dress.

Style Tip: Wedge or block heels make great companions in grass or sand environments, keeping the hair natural with waves, braids or low bun.

Weddings on the Beach: Relaxed Elegance Beach weddings require striking the right balance between comfort and style, using lightweight fabrics like chiffon, linen or satin that stay cool while remaining elegantly elegant.

Purchase Isla Blue Open-Back Maxi Dress from Shop the Look

Soleil Yellow Boho Tie-Front Midi Dress.

Style tip: Go barefoot chic or rock embellished sandals; keep accessories minimal--perhaps an effortless-chic necklace or pair of gold hoops will do.

Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual Event Outfitting
When responding to invitations of this nature, dress in an ensemble which exudes polished but playful elements; for instance midi dresses, jumpsuits or elevated two-piece sets work beautifully in these circumstances.

Shop This Look: For Lana Mauve Pleated Midi Dress.

Nova Satin Belted Jumpsuit in Olive

Style tip: Add one eye-catching piece like bold heels or an eye-catching bag to elevate any ensemble and ensure it evokes purpose and stylishness.

Casual Weddings: Chic Simplicity
Casual doesn't equate to carefree. A chic sundress, breezy maxi or tailored jumpsuit shows respect while remaining comfy and easy-going for every special moment in time.

Purchase This Look: Luna White-Print Boho Maxi Dress.

Sierra Blue Smocked Midi Dress.

Style Tip: Keep fabrics light such as cotton or linen, pairing it with sandals, soft waves and subtle jewelry pieces for effortless style.

What to Wear to a Wedding
Some style rules never go out of date:

Wear white, ivory or cream colors only when specifically requested by your partner.

Be wary of clothing that exposes too much, or features club-inspired styles.

Avoid jeans, sneakers and anything too casual--even at low-key weddings!

When in doubt, it's always preferable to overdress rather than underdress for an event.

Final Thoughts: Dress With Purpose
At its heart, weddings are about love, celebration, and connection - your outfit should reflect this energy by reflecting a look that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and uniquely you.

DressSoul dresses are tailored to help you look and feel radiant for every special event imaginable, be it dancing under string lights at an informal garden reception or toasting under chandeliers. No matter the event or setting, DressSoul dresses will help make sure that you look and feel fabulous at every celebration!

Explore more looks from DressSoul Wedding Guest Collection and be prepared for every celebration ahead.