What Is Formal Wedding Attire

Attending a formal wedding can be quite daunting, especially when it comes to choosing the right attire. After all, you don't want to be the one who stands out for all the wrong reasons! Fortunately, our team has a wealth of experience when it comes to weddings, and we're here to share our top tips on how to choose the perfect formal attire.

First things first, it's important to consider the dress code. Formal weddings usually call for a more traditional dress code, so you'll want to opt for a suit or tuxedo if you're a man, and a formal gown or cocktail dress if you're a woman. But don't worry, if you’re on a tight budget - there are plenty of affordable options out there that will still have you looking sharp.

When shopping for your formal wedding attire, there are a few important details to consider. For men, fit is key - make sure your suit or tuxedo is tailored to fit you perfectly. You'll also want to pay attention to the details, like your tie, pocket square, and cufflinks. For women, the right fit is equally important - you want to feel comfortable and confident in your dress. Consider your shoes and accessories as well - they can really make or break an outfit.

When it comes to color palettes, there are a few options that work well for formal weddings. For men, a classic black or navy suit or tuxedo is always a safe bet. You can also experiment with different shades of grey, brown, or even a deep burgundy if you're feeling bold. For women, a black or navy gown is always elegant, but you can also opt for pastel colors like blush or lavender, or go for a bold statement with a jewel-toned dress.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in your formal wedding attire. So, take some time to find the right fit, experiment with different colors and styles, and don't be afraid to ask for advice from friends or a trusted fashion expert. And most importantly, have fun - weddings are a time for celebration, after all!

Formal Wedding Attire For Women

If you're attending a formal wedding as a woman, you might be wondering what kind of attire is appropriate. Well, don't worry, we’re here for you! Here are some options for formal dress codes for women, along with their pros and cons.

Floor-Length Gowns

Floor-length gowns are a classic choice for formal weddings. They're elegant and timeless, and you'll definitely feel like a queen in one. However, they can be a bit cumbersome to wear and might not be the most practical option if you plan on dancing the night away.

Cocktail Dresses

If you want something a bit more versatile than a gown, a cocktail dress might be the way to go. They're shorter and easier to move around in, but still formal enough for a wedding. The downside is that there's a wider range of what could be considered a "cocktail dress," so you might have to do a bit more research to find one that's appropriate.

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits have been gaining popularity in recent years, and they can work for a formal wedding if you choose the right one. They're comfortable and easy to wear, but some people might not feel like they're formal enough.

Skirts and Tops

If you're not a fan of formal dresses, you could always opt for a skirt and top combo. This gives you a lot of flexibility to mix and match different pieces to create a unique look. The downside is that it can be a bit more difficult to find a formal top that matches your skirt perfectly.

Suits

Suits are a great option if you want to switch things up a bit. They're professional and stylish, and you surely can make them work for a formal wedding. However, they might not be the most comfortable option, especially if you're not used to wearing them.

Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses are a great compromise between a floor-length gown and a cocktail dress. They're flowy and comfortable, but still formal enough for a wedding. The only downside is that they can be a bit more difficult to walk in, especially if they're very long.

Ball Gowns

If you really want to go all out, a ball gown might be the way to go. They're dramatic and eye-catching, and you'll certainly make a statement. However, they can be quite heavy and hot to wear, and might not be the most practical choice.

Off-the-Shoulder Dresses

Off-the-shoulder dresses are a popular trend right now and can be a great choice for a formal wedding. They're feminine and flirty, but still elegant and sophisticated. Plus they are a trendy and feminine option that can flatter a variety of body types. They can be found in a range of fabrics and styles, from flowing chiffon to structured satin. Although, they may not be the most comfortable option if the sleeves are too tight or restrictive.

Lace Dresses

Lace dresses are a classic choice for formal events. They're romantic and timeless and can be found in a variety of styles, from bodycon to A-line. However, they can sometimes be difficult to clean and maintain and may require special care.

Embellished Dresses

If you want to add a bit of sparkle to your formal wedding guest attire, consider an embellished dress. Sequins, beads, and crystals can all add a touch of glamour to your look. Still, they can be heavy and hot to wear, especially if the embellishments are large or bulky.

High-Low Dresses

High-low dresses have a hemline that's shorter in the front and longer in the back. They're a fun and playful choice for a formal wedding and can be found in a variety of fabrics and styles. Such dresses are a playful and fun option that can add movement and texture to your look. Mind that the uneven hemline can sometimes be tricky to style.

Wrap Dresses

Wrap dresses are a versatile option that can be dressed up or down. They're comfortable and flattering and can work for a variety of body types. They may not be the most formal option, though, especially if the fabric is too casual.

One-Shoulder Dresses

These are chic and sophisticated options for formal dresses for weddings. They're modern and edgy, but still appropriate for a formal dress code. Although, they may not be the most comfortable option if the strap is too tight or restrictive.

Mermaid Dresses

Mermaid dresses are fitted through the bodice and hips, then flare out at the bottom. They're a dramatic and glamorous choice, but might not be the most comfortable option if you plan on dancing all night.

Pantsuits

If you're not a fan of dresses or skirts, consider a pantsuit. They're stylish and modern and can be found in a variety of cuts and styles. On the other hand, they may not be the most formal option, especially if the fabric is too casual or the cut is too loose.

Overall, there are plenty of options when it comes to what to wear to a formal wedding. Just remember to consider your personal style, the dress code, and your own comfort when choosing what to wear. And most importantly, have fun! Weddings are a time for celebration, so make sure you choose something that makes you feel confident and beautiful.

Men’s Formal Wedding Attire

We know that many of you still think that a tuxedo is the only suitable option. Trust us, it’s sooo not! Here are some gorgeous examples of what men can wear to a wedding.

Tuxedo

Yes, it’s still a classic choice for formal weddings. It typically includes a black jacket with satin lapels, black pants with a satin stripe down the leg, a white dress shirt, and a black bow tie. It’s timeless and elegant and can make you feel like James Bond, but they can be quite expensive to buy or rent, and might not be the most comfortable option if you're not used to wearing one.

Suit

A suit is a great alternative to a tuxedo if you want something a bit more versatile. A dark-colored suit, like navy or charcoal, is a safe bet for a formal wedding. Suits are far more affordable than tuxedos and can be worn for a variety of occasions. Still, they might not be formal enough for some weddings, and you'll need to make sure your suit fits you well.

Bow Tie and Vest

If you want to add some flair to your suit, consider adding a bow tie and vest. This can add some visual interest to your look and make you stand out from the crowd. Although, they might not be the most practical option if you plan on dancing or moving around a lot.

Three-Piece Suit

A three-piece suit includes a jacket, pants, and a vest. This can create a more polished and put-together look and is a great option if you want to stand out from the crowd. Consider the fact that they can be quite hot to wear, especially if the weather is warm.

Dinner Jacket

A dinner jacket is similar to a tuxedo jacket but can be worn with black pants instead of tuxedo pants. This can be a more versatile option if you want the look of a tuxedo without the full outfit. Just make sure your jacket fits you well.

Black Tie Optional

If the dress code is "black tie optional," you can choose between a tuxedo or a dark-colored suit. This gives you a bit more flexibility in what you wear. You can choose between a tuxedo or a suit based on your personal preference and budget. On the other hand, it can be difficult to know what others will be wearing, so you might feel out of place if you don't choose the right outfit.

Morning Dress

The morning dress is a formal attire that's typically worn for daytime events, like weddings. It includes a tailcoat with a matching waistcoat and dress pants. It’s a traditional and sophisticated choice that can make you feel like a gentleman, but it might not be the most practical choice for some weddings and can be quite expensive to buy or rent.

White Tie

The white tie is the most formal dress code and includes a black tailcoat, black pants with a satin stripe down the leg, a white wing-collared shirt, and a white bow tie. Quite an elegant option, and can make you feel like royalty, but still, it can be quite difficult to find a white tie outfit to rent or buy, and might not be necessary for most weddings.

Blazer and Dress Pants

A blazer and dress pants can be more casual but still formal wedding attire for a male. This can include a navy or dark-colored blazer with dress pants and a dress shirt. Still, you'll need to make sure your outfit matches well.

Vest and Tie

If you want to add some style to your suit or blazer, consider adding a vest and tie. This can add some visual interest and make your outfit more formal. They might not be the most practical option, though, if you plan on dancing or moving around a lot.

Colored Suits

If you want to stand out from the crowd, consider a colored suit. This can be a bold choice but can work well for more modern and casual weddings.

Double-Breasted Jacket

A double-breasted jacket can add some classic style to your outfit. This can be a great option if you want something more formal than a blazer but less formal than a tuxedo. However, they might not be the most comfortable option if the fit is too tight or restrictive.

We hope this was useful! Have fun!