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The most common dress codes, deciphered

After you've discovered the best dress silhouette for your body type, let's move on to the most common dress codes written in wedding invitations.

1. White Tie

This is the most formal wedding attire. Think the Oscar's or a state dinner.

For her: A formal full-length gown or even ball gown in basic colors like black or any dark shades, complete with dramatic jewelry, neat hairdo, and a classy clutch if necessary.

For him: A tuxedo or a long black jacket with tails and a white formal shirt, bow tie, finished with black formal shoes and gloves when needed.

2. Black Tie

Just like the White Tie, Black Tie is also one of the most formal wedding dress codes. It usually indicates that the wedding is going to be in the evening.

For her: A chic formal floor-length gown or a cocktail dress should be fine. If you want to keep the formal look, always try to keep your dress length below the knee.

For him: A tuxedo, cummerbund, or black vest with a black bow tie. Complete the look with patent leather shoes. If the wedding is during summertime, you can always switch the tux with a traditional black suit.

3. Formal or Black Tie Optional

This dress code is less formal but still dressy and conservative.

For her: A long dress or cocktail-length dress, a formal two-piece outfit could work too. Always remember to keep it formal by choosing a dress that is at least knee-length.

For him: A tuxedo or traditional black suit with a white formal shirt and a formal tie

4. Semiformal or Casual Dress

You can play around more with colors with this type of dress code. Try to get hints by looking at the time of the event. Pick darker shades for an evening reception and a lighter soft pastel color for a daytime event.

For her: Cocktail-length dress or maxi skirt with dressy top.

For him: A suit and tie with more flexible color options, it does not have to be in darker hues.

5. Cocktail Dress or Festive Attire

There is more flexibility for this one. Try to play around with bolder colors, fashionable accessories, also strapped or uniquely-designed heels.

For her: A cocktail or tea-length dress with fun colors paired with playful accessories.

For him: A suit and tie, non-white formal shirt is allowed, can be jazzed up with a different color tie or bow tie.

6. Casual Attire

This is the most informal dress code. Most weddings with this dress code are held outdoors with a laid-back atmosphere. Even though it is casual, try to avoid wearing jeans, tank tops, and shorts unless stated otherwise.

For her: Summer dress or jumpsuit with light make-up and natural hairdo is acceptable.

For him: Dress pants in khaki or other colors matched with a button-down shirt or dressy polo shirt.

Unconventional dress codes

Though the dress codes above are often used in many types of events, these days there are other types of dress codes that would probably leave you wondering. Some dress codes are even not plainly stated, so you need to find some hints before deciding what to wear. Here are some potential dress codes you might encounter for a wedding.

1. Thematic wedding dress

This includes the "Gatsby" or 1950s wedding themes. When it is clearly written, try to research outfits and looks from that specific era and look for similar clothing in your nearest thrift shop. For example, the 1950s was known for its fit-and-flare dresses that emphasized the female figure, while "Gatsby" alludes to the 1920s, a glamorous era famous for its black or gold flapper dresses.

For her: Choose a black or gold dress with hanging fringes or beads and top it with pearl jewelry and a whimsical hairpiece.

For him: A black suit with a bow tie would be the safest option, but as this is a more playful party, you can opt for other colors and patterns. Take some time to find accessories, like a hat or suspenders.

2. Destination wedding

Most destination weddings are held on the beach, so your attire should be dressy and at the same time relaxed and comfortable enough to wear in hot weather with sand between your toes. This also applies to al fresco weddings, such as a garden wedding where you can wear a floral summer dress and dressy sandals.

For her: For windy places, avoid fluttery dresses that can be blown away. Play around with patterned or colorful cocktail dresses, keeping the length up to just above the knee. Wrap up the look with accessories and fashionable sandals or wedges. Due to the wind, keep in mind a hairstyle that embraces the surroundings. Unless you're sure about the venue, stilettos and any high heels that can get you stuck should be avoided.

For him: Button-down shirt with khaki pants, try to avoid jeans and shorts unless stated otherwise, and bring along sunglasses or a hat as accessories.

3. Hidden dress code

Some couples hesitate to write down any dress code to avoid appearing troublesome. However, when they want their guests to blend in with their wedding theme, sometimes they will write indirect "dress codes" in sentences like, "Our happiness will be complete with your presence, see you on our colorful wedding day" that implies that their guests should be dressed in colorful attire.

For her: Always try to match the intended color, if not, you can choose for more neutral and monochromatic dresses.

For him: A suit and tie or formal pants with a shirt and tie.

4. Undisclosed dress code

If no dress codes is written or implied, you're free to wear anything you want. A little black dress or dark dress in any shade will never go wrong. If you're going as a couple, you can try matching your dress with his formal shirt using similar tones.

For her: Little black dress, any formal dress, or dressy separates.

For him: A suit and tie or a formal shirt with any tie.

Another way to dress up for any kind of wedding occasion is to first determine where the wedding will be held: a garden, beach, or ballroom. Next, you should consider seasonal colors: spring, summer, fall, or winter. To make it easier, take a look at the color chart here for the options. If you really aren't sure about what to wear, you can check out some photos from real weddings to get an idea of what the guests are wearing to different types of events.

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Outfit Essentials

Every kind of dress needs accessories that can make it stand out even more, but without the right balance, you might end up looking tacky. Always try on the complete outfit days before the event to give yourself some time to add or remove anything from your look. If you have difficulties in mixing and matching your outfit, follow these guides for some ideas.