The wedding season is here, and slipping into the right outfit and shoes as a guest can be challenging. Choice paralysis is real, even if there’s a dress code. But before you start stressing or committing to a shopping spree, JCPenney has pulled together this wedding guest attire guide to help you understand common wedding dress codes and what would look best for each.
Women's Cocktail Attire
Elegance is essential when it comes to a cocktail wedding dress code. Avoid extremes like gowns or mini-skirts and instead focus on finding a graceful knee-length, tea-length, or midi dress. Daytime events favor natural or bold colors or patterns, while evenings allow for darker hues, statement prints, and embellishments.
A classic little black dress, paired with stiletto heels or dressy flats, remains a timeless choice. Women can also opt for sleek suiting or jumpsuits with heels or formal flats.
A classic little black dress, paired with stiletto heels or dressy flats, remains a timeless choice. Women can also opt for sleek suiting or jumpsuits with heels or formal flats.
Men's Cocktail Attire
And for men, this occasion calls for a suit. One that has sharp tailoring from darker hues for evenings and lighter tones for daytime celebrations. To complete the look, shine up a pair of dress shoes – it’s the best way to elicit dapper comments on your style.
Women's Semi-Formal Attire
Semi-formal wedding attire offers a breath of sartorial freedom, especially for women who can embrace mid- to knee-length skirts, tailored two-piece outfits, or chic jumpsuits with minimalist patterns in colors to match the trends and season. Block heels, wedges, and simple gold or silver jewelry complete the look elegantly.
Men's Semi-Formal Attire
Men, foregoing tuxedos, can pair a suit jacket or blazer with dress pants. Have fun with texture and color with crepe, velvet, or corduroy in neutral tones for daytime events, and crimson, chocolate, or navy for evening celebrations.
While optional, ties elevate the look, and loafers or oxfords may provide a slightly more casual touch depending on the silhouette and material. Complement it with a pocket square and a statement watch for added personality.
Casual wedding attire strikes a balance between elevated and relaxed. Men can opt for pants, a blazer with a tie, or a nice dress shirt paired with slacks. And for footwear, step up your laid-back but more than suitable style with Chelsea boots, loafers, or derby shoes. Women can embrace these formal affairs by wearing pieces that are both festive in color and design, from sundresses to jumpsuits or two-piece sets. Avoid over-the-top outfits and focus on seasonal comfort, especially for outdoor events.
Linen and lightweight fabrics are perfect to keep every man cool and tailored. In comparison, women can choose a flowy midi skirt with a chic blouse for an elevated, lowkey outfit. Pair suiting with a smooth leather pair of sneakers or classic loafers and elevate hemlines with chunky or statement-heeled sandals or keep it simple with flats. As a finishing touch for a man’s outfit, a pin through the lapel, tie, or an embellished ring are understated and elegant, and ladies, don’t be afraid of bold earrings or a stylish clutch.
Men's Daytime Attire
Daytime wedding attire offers a canvas for experimenting with trendy colors, patterns, and fabrics, providing more flexibility in outfit choices. A solid-color or non-traditional patterned suit is ideal for men, with options like plaid, houndstooth, or windowpane.
Consider a unique shirt and accessory combination, such as a floral camp shirt or a fitted knit polo, with a watch or necklace to add a touch of personal style.
Women's Daytime Attire
Adhering to seasonal considerations is crucial, as well. Women should opt for shorter, breezier styles in warmer months and choose long sleeves and heavier fabrics for colder weather.
• Casual: two-pieces, sundresses, collared shirts, khakis
• Black Tie: chic jumpsuits, gowns, bow or classic ties, tuxedos
• Formal: maxi dresses, tuxedos optional, black or dark-hued suits acceptable
• Semi-Formal: midi dresses, dress shirts, suit pants
• Black Tie: chic jumpsuits, gowns, bow or classic ties, tuxedos
• Formal: maxi dresses, tuxedos optional, black or dark-hued suits acceptable
• Semi-Formal: midi dresses, dress shirts, suit pants