“Wear whatever you feel most comfortable in” – A wedding guest’s worst nightmare.  

When it comes to event dressing – everyone likes some guidance on what to wear (and what to avoid). You want to look and feel great, but not feel out of place compared to the other guests. You want to avoid dark colours, but equally not be the brightest in the room. And importantly not hold any kind of resemblance to the bridal party. 

So, what really is appropriate to wear to a wedding? We’ve taken the time to demystify the many different wedding dress codes, so you don’t have to. 

From black-tie weddings and cocktail dresses to “smart casual”, there’s endless dress codes to debunk… 

What’s the difference between black-tie and white-tie, for example?  

When the dress code reads “Come as you are”, do they really mean it?  

Read on for the breakdown on the dress code you’ve been given (and some outfit peace of mind)… 

What to wear to a black-tie wedding? 

Black-tie weddings call for your most formal occasion dresses. Think maxi dresses that touch the floor (or at least the top of the shoes), luxurious fabrics like silks, sequins or delicate chiffon overlays, statement silhouettes or an element of tailoring. And yes, you can wear black dresses to a black-tie event!  

What if I don’t want to buy something? Can I rent a dress? 

We love how a specific dress code can allow you to play with your style and wear something you wouldn’t normally – and evening dress hire is a great way to do just that. All of the high fashion, none of the commitment. So, if your calendar is full of weddings, browse our curated collection of Monsoon dresses for rent with My Wardrobe HQ. With everything from statement ruffle dresses to black tie gowns, there’s something for every dress code. 

What does a white-tie dress code mean? 

Like most of us, you’ve heard of black-tie, but what’s the difference to white-tie?  

Contrary to popular belief, white-tie is the most formal a dress code can be. Men must wear black tailcoats and white bow ties, while women should reach for a formal evening gown. Silhouettes are best kept slim-fitting, tailored at the waist, and full in length – at least falling to the top of the shoes. It’s also the perfect excuse to show off your finest and sparkliest accessories, with elevated court shoes as a footwear accompaniment.  

Does this mean guests can wear white? We’d still avoid this, instead opt for jewel tones and opulent golds – they gain more compliments anyway!  

What should you wear to a wedding with a formal dress code? 

Similar to black-tie, a formal dress code refers to midi and maxi length dresses in luxurious fabrics, but generally bears more room to play with refined prints and colours. We love green midi dresses for spring/summer, while blue wedding guest dresses are suitable all year round.  

What is a cocktail dress? 

Aiming to strike a balance between formal and casual, the cocktail dress code is up to interpretation by the guest. But commonly, cocktail dresses lean towards a formal finish, ideally with dress lengths falling between the knee and mid-calf. When it comes to silhouettes and colour palettes, this is flexible! Take a steer from the type of wedding venue, the time of day and the season – for example, a room full of bright cocktail dresses pairs best with an outdoor summer venue.  

What does a “smart casual” wedding dress code mean for women? 

Arguably the most difficult to perceive, smart casual dress codes refer to that middle ground between comfy and relaxed to a little bit special.  

If in doubt, you can rely on floral midi dresses, simple sundresses, tailored jumpsuits and colourful linen co-ords. Forget patent heels and fascinators, just add: Simple accessories and gold block heels.  

Wondering what to wear to a beach wedding with no dress code? We’d go for something smart-casual. 

What to wear to an intimate registry office wedding? 

We recommend staying relatively formal for this. Tailored jumpsuits and midi dresses are the easiest option, with cardigans and blazers making the perfect topper.  

And the answer everyone wants to know… What does a “casual” wedding dress code mean? 

A wedding is no place for your favourite “jeans and a nice top pairing” (sadly). But a casual dress code is not the place for silk maxi dresses and tailored two pieces either.  

Instead, reach for your most elevated everyday outfits. Thnk anything from floral midi dresses and embroidered dresses to tea dress silhouettes, midi or maxi skirts, and linen trousers with flat gold sandals or block heels. 

What does it mean if the wedding invite says, “Dress code: Come as you are”? 

This dress code is flexible when it comes to formality. But guests should consider the wedding venue, the season and time of the day. If the wedding is in a traditional church, try a sundress paired with a blazer. But if it’s a beach wedding, try a maxi kaftan, dressed up with bold accessories. 

Our fashion writer’s top tip: Wear what you feel most comfortable in. When you feel great, you look it!  

What to wear to a beach wedding? 

It’s all about complementing the scenery. Opt for light, bright hues, palm prints, floaty silhouettes and bohemian details, like delicate embroidery, crochet and tassels. Dress up sundresses and beach dresses with bold accessories and when it comes to shoes – reach for flat sandals! 

Invited to a festival-inspired wedding? Wear this… 

When it comes to festival wedding dressing, think less Saturday night sparkles at Glasto and bohemian chic with paisley prints, crochets, tassels and tie-backs. Our edit of boho dresses, flat gold sandals and floral accessories are the way to go.  

What shoes to wear to an outdoors wedding? 

Avoid the pain of your kitten heels stuck in the grass by opting for flat sandals, block heels and wedges. 

What does a ‘festive’ dress code mean? 

A cold-wedding classic. The festive dress code is one of the most fun out there. Anything goes with sequin dresses, velvet dresses and satin maxi dresses in rich, jewel tones and playful embellishments (think feather trims, crystal details and beautiful bow heels galore). 

How to dress for a cultural dress code?  

Start with some research (and don’t be afraid to reach out to the couple themselves)! 

It’s important to be respectful to tradition and culture, so it’s best to embrace everything that comes with it. From striking embellishments and bright colour palettes within Indian heritage to traditional kilts that come with the Scottish, there’s plenty to learn when it comes to cultural differences in weddings and dress codes. But also, have fun with it! The couple will appreciate any time and effort put into your outfit. 

How to avoid matching the bridesmaids? 

We get it. No one wants to turn up to a wedding in the same colour palette as the bridal party. Escape any awkwardness by avoiding this year’s trending colours – dusty blue bridesmaid dresses, blush pink bridesmaid dresses and sage green bridesmaid dresses.  

Instead, opt for deeper and brighter colours, tailored elements and wearable styles you can keep in your collection forever – your bank account will thank you, too.  

Know a bride who’s looking for her dream dress still? 

Spread the word to the bride-to-be about our collection of premium, high-street wedding dresses that are rich in exquisite details and timeless in style. Whether it’s for the boho bride that’s always dreamt of a beach wedding or the bride who loves tradition, there’s something for everyone. Did we mention how iconic our bridal shoes and accessories are, too? 

Discover more styles for any location and season from pink midi dresses and embellished dresses to short dresses that catch a light breeze in our full wedding guest collection.