Wedding dress codes,
explained.
8 dress codes, each with what it means, what your guests should actually wear, what to skip, and the line to put on the invitation. Take any of them onto your own wedding site and change a word wherever it does not fit.
White Tie
The most formal dress code there is: floor-length gowns and tailcoats, always after dark.
Black Tie
Formal evening wear: a tuxedo, and a floor-length or very formal gown.
Tropical Formal
Formal for real heat: bright maxi dresses, linen suits, jacket usually optional.
Winter Formal
Formal for cold weather: velvet, long sleeves, jewel tones and a proper coat.
Semi-Formal
A notch below cocktail: a suit without the tie, a midi or a smart dress.
Festive Attire
Cocktail attire with colour, sequins or a seasonal pattern welcome.
Vineyard Chic
Relaxed but put together, in earthy tones, for a wedding among the vines.
Casual
The most relaxed code: a sundress or good jeans, and trainers are fine.
Wedding dress codes at a glance
| Dress code | What it means |
|---|---|
| White Tie | The most formal dress code there is: floor-length gowns and tailcoats, always after dark. |
| Black Tie | Formal evening wear: a tuxedo, and a floor-length or very formal gown. |
| Tropical Formal | Formal for real heat: bright maxi dresses, linen suits, jacket usually optional. |
| Winter Formal | Formal for cold weather: velvet, long sleeves, jewel tones and a proper coat. |
| Semi-Formal | A notch below cocktail: a suit without the tie, a midi or a smart dress. |
| Festive Attire | Cocktail attire with colour, sequins or a seasonal pattern welcome. |
| Vineyard Chic | Relaxed but put together, in earthy tones, for a wedding among the vines. |
| Casual | The most relaxed code: a sundress or good jeans, and trainers are fine. |
Wedding dress code questions
What are the wedding dress codes, most to least formal?
White tie and black tie are the most formal options, followed by black-tie optional, formal, cocktail, semi-formal and dressy casual. Labels such as festive or beach formal also describe the style or setting. Add outfit examples so guests understand what you mean.
Do I have to put a dress code on my wedding invitation?
No, but a short label can help guests choose an outfit. Use your wedding website for more detail, including the setting, weather and suitable shoes.
Where does the dress code go on the invitation?
You can put a short label on the invitation or details card. Keep longer outfit guidance and practical information on your wedding website.
Can we have different dress codes for different events?
Yes. Add a dress code to each event where it is useful, such as the welcome dinner or reception. Share the details early enough for guests to pack.
Pick one, then make it
yours.
Choose dress codes for your wedding events, then edit the photos and wording to help guests prepare.