Right after you have RVSP to attend a wedding, the next thing that comes to mind would be deciding what to wear.  Most wedding invitations include the preferred wedding dress code. Have you received a wedding invite where you are clueless about the wedding dress code?  You may be stumped trying to decipher the dress codes that may include dressy casual, beach formal or semi-formal.

Getting dressed for a wedding is no easy feat with so many different types of formality.  Before you start to stress, go through your closet or planning to go on a shopping spree, here is a guide on how to decode the wedding dress codes and what type of wedding ensembles you can choose for formal, semi-formal, cocktail and casual that is perfect for celebrating the couple on their nuptial day.

White Tie

White tie is formal and it is not very common these days. However, if you are invited to this type of event, it is important to dress the part. For men, it is a black tailcoat, white vest, formal white shirt and a white bowtie.  They can add a pair of white gloves for a fancy touch. For women, it is safest to stick with a long, formal dress like this A-line tulle lace dress that features a plunging illusion V-neckline and a beaded belt on the waist.

Black Tie 

For black-tie events, it is most appropriate to wear evening wear. It will be a dark tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a bow tie, a cummerbund for men. For shoes, dress shoes such as oxfords, are suitable. Women should wear a formal floor-length evening gown to a black-tie event and pair the dress with jewelry and heels. This elegant black lace evening dress is simply stunning and ideal for a black tie event. Made with a blend of lace and sparkling sequin applique, it features a transparent V-neckline and fitted long sleeves with a mermaid train skirt.

Semi Formal or Cocktail

In the bridal world, semi-formal falls somewhere between formal and casual. This is currently a popular dress code for weddings. Men can wear suits or sports coats with or without ties. For women, there is more flexibility. Cocktail dresses or dressy separates are great.  The hem of these cocktail dresses can range from midi to just above the knees like this royal blue midi satin dress.

Casual

Casual attire can depend on several things such as the location and time of day. The most formal one can get with this dress code is a sports coat. Button-downs, sweaters, and relaxed pants are good too. Women can wear less dressy dresses like separates or sundresses. This simple navy blue chiffon sheath dress is a good choice for casual wedding dress code.

Beach Formal

For beach weddings, the rules are more relaxed. Due to the waterfront setting, beach weddings are naturally more casual. You can plan to dress a little more comfortably. Focus on lightweight fabrics, like linen, cotton and chiffon, which will not only work with the informal casual setting but will keep you cool in hot temperatures at a summer wedding. Breezy, flowing gowns and skirts are definitely apt for a beach wedding dress code. If you want a shorter hem dress, this dusty blue midi chiffon number is an elegant choice.  Featuring a one-shoulder neckline, pleated skirt and front thigh split, this dress is cool and classic.

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