Decoding Dress Codes: What to Wear for Weddings
From tailcoats and ties to gowns and gloves, wedding day dress codes explained
August 10, 2026
White Tie
Accepted styles: Ultra formal floor-length gown with white gloves. Winged collar dress shirt, pleated black pants, a white waistcoat and black tailcoat with a white bow tie and formal footwear.
Venue: Grand ballroom, sophisticated estate, ornate castle
Black Tie
Accepted styles: Formal floor-length gown or elegant pantsuit below the ankles. Classic tux with a black bow tie and patent leather shoes.
Venue: Country club, historic residence, architectural museum
FORMAL
Accepted styles: Floor-length gown, an elevated cocktail dress or pantsuit. Tuxedo or suit and tie with sleek shoes.
Venue: Banquet hall, botanical garden, yacht club
COCKTAIL
Accepted styles: Knee-length, midi or tea-length dress. Suit and tie with loafers or dressy shoe.
Venue: Vineyard, hotel rooftop, coastal resort
SEMI-FORMAL
Accepted styles: Chic jumpsuit, cocktail dress. Mixed pieces such as dress shirt and sport coat with slacks and optional tie.
Venue: Greenhouse, lakeside home, idyllic barn
CASUAL
Accepted styles: Elevated skirt and top combo, mini dress, flowy midi dress. Mixed pieces such as dress shirt with tailored chinos or trousers with comfortable shoes and optional sport coat.
Venue: Backyard bash, beach escape, national park