You got the invitation. It says "cocktail attire" and you have no idea what that means. Sound familiar? Here is the definitive guide to wedding guest dress codes — and exactly which dress to wear to each one.
Black Tie
The most formal wedding dress code. Think floor-length gowns in rich fabrics — satin, velvet, or sequin. Dark colors (black, navy, burgundy, emerald) are traditional. Our Formal Gowns collection is designed for exactly this.
Do: Floor-length, elegant, statement jewelry.
Don't: Short dresses, casual fabrics, anything you'd wear to brunch.
Black Tie Optional
You can go floor-length OR opt for a dressy midi. A satin midi dress with heels is the sweet spot — formal enough without overdoing it.
Cocktail Attire
The most common wedding dress code. Midi or knee-length dresses in polished fabrics. This is where our Cocktail Dresses collection shines — bodycon, A-line, and slip silhouettes that strike the perfect balance.
Semi-Formal / Dressy Casual
More relaxed but still polished. A printed midi dress, a wrap dress, or an elegant mini with a blazer. Browse our Vacation Dresses for lighter, more playful options.
Beach / Destination Wedding
Light fabrics that move in the wind — chiffon, cotton, or lightweight polyester. Skip the stilettos (they sink in sand). A flowy maxi dress in a bright color is your best bet.
Garden / Outdoor Wedding
Floral prints, pastels, and midi lengths. Think of it as "elevated garden party." Block heels or wedges work better than stilettos on grass.
Colors to Avoid as a Wedding Guest
- White, ivory, cream — reserved for the bride, always.
- Neon or overly loud prints — you should complement, not compete.
- All black to a summer wedding — can feel funereal. Add a colorful accessory if you must wear black.
Safe Bets That Always Work
- Navy midi dress — works for literally any wedding
- Burgundy maxi — formal enough for black tie, warm enough for fall
- Emerald green anything — stands out in photos without upstaging
