Dress Code Decoded: What to Wear to Every Kind of Wedding

Black-tie weddings are the Oscars of the wedding world — a grand affair that calls for timeless elegance and full-throttle glamour. This usually translates to a floor-length gown in an elevated fabric like silk, satin, or velvet. It’s your moment to dress to the nines, so don’t shy away from drama. Think sweeping silhouettes, intricate beading, or a bold train. Eveningwear that turns heads but stays tasteful is the sweet spot. And when it comes to accessories, they should feel polished and deliberate: a delicate clutch, those earrings you've been saving, and heels.

This dress code is a little more nuanced and sometimes causes confusion — but really, it’s just a slightly more flexible version of black-tie. A full-length gown is still perfectly appropriate, but so is a sophisticated midi or an elevated cocktail dress, especially if it’s made from luxe fabric or has dramatic detailing. The aim here is to look elegant and well put-together without necessarily going full gala.

It’s also a great opportunity to get creative with silhouette and color. Try a delicate cut-out detail, or a bold hue that stands out in a sea of neutrals. Footwear should still be dressy — heels or beautifully styled flats — and your accessories should reflect the same polished vibe.

Cocktail attire is arguably the most fun to dress for — it’s where celebration and style collide. The hemline gets shorter, the silhouettes a little more daring, and the accessories a lot more playful. A sleek little black dress? Perfect. A jewel-toned mini with dramatic sleeves? Even better. You’re dressing to impress, but with a party vibe, not a red carpet one.

Don’t be afraid to embrace texture, print, or embellishment. A cocktail wedding is the perfect excuse to break out the feathers, fringe, sequins, or all of the above — in moderation, of course. This is also your time to have fun with accessories. Go bold with earrings, experiment with metallics, and pick shoes that pop. Just remember, “cocktail” does not mean clubwear — leave the bodycon mesh at home.

This one might sound like a contradiction, but it’s actually all about balance. Semi-formal (sometimes labeled "dressy casual") is the sweet spot between being comfortably dressed and looking like you made a proper effort. It's the brunch wedding, the vineyard ceremony, the stylish garden party — all events that deserve a little polish, minus the full gown.

A midi dress in a breezy floral print, tailored wide-leg trousers with a satin top, or even a crisp jumpsuit all fit the bill. Footwear should be refined — think block heels, chic mules, or pretty flats — and your styling should reflect intention.

If the wedding is oceanside, your look should feel appropriately airy, but that doesn’t mean phoning it in. “Beach formal” sounds like a contradiction, but it’s really about marrying elegance with ease. Think flowing maxi dresses in lightweight fabrics like linen, chiffon, or cotton-silk blends — pieces that can catch the sea breeze without losing their shape.

Color is your friend here, as are natural textures. Go for sunny tones, tropical prints, or minimalist pastels. Shoes should be sand-friendly but stylish — wedges, flat sandals with embellishments, or even a polished espadrille. Just avoid stilettos unless you plan on getting very well-acquainted with the sand. If you're going to accessorize, consider a wide-brimmed hat or delicate beachy jewelry to complete the look.

Casual weddings are more laid-back affairs, often in someone’s backyard, at a charming countryside barn, or a daytime courthouse ceremony followed by cocktails. But "casual" doesn’t mean sloppy — it just means comfort with style. Think well-cut sundresses, elegant daywear, or a cute matching set that says "Sunday lunch" rather than "Netflix and slippers."

Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and jersey blends are ideal — especially in the warmer months — and prints like florals, gingham, or soft stripes help bring a celebratory feel. Sandals or flats are fine here, just make sure they’re in good shape and on-theme. Add a light jacket or cardigan in case of a temperature dip, and keep your accessories minimal but thoughtful. The goal is to look like you care — just not too much.