Wedding season is upon us and with it comes the all-too-common question: what should I wear as a wedding guest? Dress codes can be confusing and there are so many options to choose from. Whether you're attending a black tie affair or a casual outdoor wedding, I know that we all want to dress appropriately for the occasion. But what does that mean exactly? Don't worry, we're breaking down wedding dress guest codes and sharing tips for finding a dress you'll wear again and again. We value sustainability over here!
Wedding Guest Dress Codes
When it comes to attending events, dress codes can be a bit of a challenge. Fortunately, most invitations will indicate the required dress code. While dress codes may sometimes be unclear, here's a breakdown of some of the most commonly used dress codes:
Black Tie: This is the most formal dress code. Men should wear tuxedos, while women should opt for an elegant evening gown.
Formal or Black Tie Optional: This dress code still requires formal attire, but guests have a bit more freedom. Men can wear a tuxedo or a dark suit, while women can choose a long dress or dressy cocktail dress.
Semi-Formal: This dress code is less formal than black tie and typically means a dark suit for men and a cocktail dress or dressy skirt and top for women.
Casual: This is the least formal dress code and usually means something like a sundress or khakis for men and a sundress or skirt and top for women.
Choosing something you can wear again
Now that you have an idea of what dress code to expect, it's time to find the perfect outfit. As a sustainable fashion brand, we believe that choosing sustainable and versatile pieces is not only better for the environment, but also for your wallet. Sustainable fashion means we are purchasing fewer pieces, regardless of the initial upfront cost (ie. it's a more sustainable option to purchase one dress you really love for $150 than it is to buy 5 dresses for $30 that might be a one-time wear).
When deciding what to wear as a wedding guest, we encourage you to choose something that you can wear multiple times and to different occasions. Opt for items that can be dressed up or down, such as a simple slip dress, a jumpsuit, a little black skirt or even a more casual summer dress option. These timeless pieces can be worn in different ways and will never go out of style. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will also reduce the amount of waste produced by fast fashion. Who else wants to make sustainable choices while looking fabulous?
My MVP for Wedding Guest Attire is the Sadie Slip Dress
My personal favorite wedding guest dress is the Sadie slip dress. It's a classic style that can be dressed up or down and worn year-round. It's also incredibly flattering on all body types!
I also just love how versatile and elegant a slip dress is. The Sadie, for example, can be dressed up with heels and statement jewelry for a formal occasion or dressed down with flats and minimal accessories for a more relaxed ceremony. For a summer wedding, a slip dress in a light fabric, such as silk or satin, can keep you cool and comfortable. For a chillier wedding day, consider pairing it with a wrap or shawl to cover your arms during an outdoor ceremony. With its sleek and simple design, a slip dress is a timeless choice that can be worn to many other events beyond the wedding day.
Choosing what to wear as a wedding guest
Last but not least, another tip when choosing what to wear as a wedding guest is to consider the venue and time of day. A beach wedding will call for a different dress than a winter wedding in a ballroom. It goes without saying that you need to keep the weather and location in mind when picking out your outfit.
On top of that, accessories can make a big difference when it comes to completing your wedding guest look. A statement clutch, bold earrings, or a sparkly necklace can elevate a more minimal dress. If you want to shop for my favorite sustainable brands, click here.
