Deciding what to wear to a wedding is tricky: You want to choose something that looks stylish, doesn’t upstage the bride (white is off the table for guests, unless specifically requested by the bride), and that your fellow attendees haven’t seen you in (at least not recently). Not to mention, your look should befit the venue and adhere to the wedding dress code–and with weddings these days running the gamut from laid-back beach gatherings to ultra-dressy formal affairs, that’s not always an easy task. That’s where we come in: To ensure you’re prepped for all the nuptials on your calendar this season, we’re breaking down wedding dress code options and attire etiquette for every type of venue, and offering up shoppable head-to-toe looks that will guarantee you’re the best-dressed guest all season long.
Formal/Black Tie
It’s time to get all dressed up! A Black Tie or formal dress code wedding typically takes place in the evening, so think elegant and upscale. Chic, long gowns are traditionally appropriate black tie wedding attire–and don’t be afraid to opt for a bold color and sparkly extras. This sleek, yellow cutout dress–paired with modern gold accessories–hits one of the season’s MVP hues and makes a sophisticated, on-trend option for formal dress attire.
Shop The Look: Power of Wow Yellow Backless Maxi Dress, Loveliness Rose Gold Ankle Strap Heels, Buckingham Gold Clutch, Opulence Gold Rhinestone Earrings
Beach Chic/Beach Formal
The wedding dress code for beach nuptials is usually a little more laid-back, which means you can feel free to get playful and nod to the oceanfront venue. A breezy sundress or maxi dress in a fun pattern is always a great option when it comes to beach wedding dress attire–as is flat footwear to help you navigate your sandy surroundings in style. In an islandy floral-print maxi dress with flat gold sandals, beaded earrings, and a woven bag, you’ll nail the beach wedding dress code. Bonus: Once the party’s over, this waterfront wedding dress code option doubles as a killer vacation outfit.
Shop The Look: Saturday Sunrise Red And Blue Floral Print Tiered Maxi Dress, Achilles Gold Flat Ankle Strap Sandals, Summer Fling Tan Bamboo Handle Bag, Beadwork It Red Beaded Statement Earrings
Cocktail/Black-Tie Optional
If the invite indicates a Black-Tie Optional or cocktail dress code wedding, you can’t go wrong with–you guessed it–a pretty cocktail dress. Midi to tea-length dresses always feel appropriate for this wedding dress code: bonus points if you go for a romantic lace option–a fabric that always feels dressed up. For a fresh alternative to an LBD, try a flirty pink dress for the next cocktail attire wedding on your calendar, then add metallic accessories for a subtle dose of shine.
Shop The Look: Kiss Kiss Pink Lace Sleeveless Midi Dress, (similar) Taylor Ankle Strap Heels, Stop Look And Glisten Silver Metallic Clutch, Made In Heaven Gold Rhinestone Statement Earrings
Church Ceremony
A church wedding dress code naturally veers on the more conservative side, so it’s a good idea to cover up bare arms and avoid showing too much leg or décolletage (as a sign of respect). Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your personal style: A modest, vintage-inspired midi dress with a sweet floral print is equal parts fashionable and wedding dress code-friendly. Paired with neutral pumps, a polished clutch, and delicate earrings, you’ve got a dressy casual wedding look that’s just, well, heavenly.
Shop The Look: Emilia Green Floral Print Midi Dress, Stormi Nude Suede D’Orsay Pumps, Audrey Ivory Knotted Clutch, Menorca Gold And Pink Earrings
Casual/Dressy Casual
A casual wedding dress code indicates nuptials that are being held in a relaxed venue like a backyard garden or an outdoor restaurant–but steer clear of counting jeans, shorts, or sneakers among your casual wedding clothes options. This is someone’s big day after all, so go for a look that’s laid-back but not overly informal. A sundress in a not-too-fancy fabric works for a casual or dressy casual wedding as do daytime-feeling accessories like a basket bag and raffia mules.
Shop The Look: Blaine Light Blue Striped Tiered Midi Dress, Lanay Natural Woven Raffia Mules, Peck Beige Woven Mini Basket Bag, Like A Charm Gold Engraved Pendant Necklace
Rustic/Outdoors
Farm and barn venues are only growing in popularity, so chances are high that you’ll be on the hunt for casual outdoor wedding attire in the near future. A floral maxi dress is both romantic and rustic, making it the perfect choice for a country wedding dress code. Feel free to keep your accessories semi-casual: Neutral accessories in vegan leather and suede will look polished but won’t skew too evening. Be mindful of your shoes, though: Wedges or thick block heels ensure you’ll stay steady (and stylish) on rolling hills, rocky terrain, or unfinished barn floors.
Shop The Look: Feeling Freesia Navy Blue Floral Print Maxi Dress, Taylor Almond Stacked Ankle Strap Heels, Indra Beige Tassel Clutch, Happier Gold Circle Necklace
We want to see how you nail the wedding dress code! Show us your glam guest looks on Instagram @lulus using #lovelulus!
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