Weddings come in all forms—from formal ballroom events to relaxed outdoor gatherings. But as a guest, it can be tricky to know what to wear. This guide breaks down the most common wedding dress codes so you can feel confident, stylish, and appropriate—whatever the celebration. Whether you’re attending a wedding in your hometown or traveling for the event, we offer a wide range of formal and occasion wear available both online and in-store from our boutique based in Launceston, Tasmania.
Understanding Wedding Dress Codes
A quick guide to the most common wedding guest dress codes, paired with outfit ideas you can find in our collection.
White Tie: Ultra-formal events call for full-length ball gowns or tuxedos with tails. Look for rich fabrics like satin or velvet.
Black Tie: Ideal for evening weddings; think elegant floor-length dresses, formal suits, and sophisticated accessories.
Formal / Black Tie Optional: More flexibility; women can wear midi or long dresses, while men can opt for dark suits.
Cocktail: Stylish and fun—perfect for modern weddings. Choose structured midi dresses, lace detailing, or a statement jumpsuit.
Semi-Formal: Smart but not over-the-top. Try a wrap dress, flowy A-line dress, or a coordinated blouse and skirt combo.
Smart Casual: Popular for garden or daytime weddings. Sundresses, jumpsuits, or tailored separates strike the right balance.
Casual: Laid-back celebrations like beach or backyard weddings call for light fabrics and relaxed silhouettes.
Themed: When the couple sets a theme (boho, rustic, vintage), choose pieces that suit the vibe—floral prints, earthy tones, or romantic details.
All of these looks and more are available in our curated selection—shop online or visit our boutique in Launceston.
👗 Common Wedding Guest Dress Codes: What to Wear
| Dress Code | Description | Fabrics | Suggested Colours | Recommended Styles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Tie | The most formal dress code (rare in Australia) | Satin, silk, velvet | Black, navy, jewel tones, ivory | Full-length ball gown; tuxedo with tails |
| Black Tie | Formal evening event, often post-5pm | Chiffon, crepe, silk, tulle | Navy, black, emerald, metallics | Floor-length gown; tuxedo or dinner jacket |
| Formal / Black Tie Optional | Elegant but with more flexibility | Crepe, silk blends, structured cotton | Burgundy, charcoal, gold accents | Long dress, midi dress, or a dark suit with tie |
| Cocktail | Semi-formal and fun; common for modern weddings | Lace, satin, jacquard | Floral, soft pinks, teal, navy | Knee-length or midi dress; suit without a tie |
| Semi-Formal | Slightly more relaxed than cocktail | Cotton blends, light wool, chiffon | Dusty blue, plum, blush, olive green | Midi wrap dress, A-line dresses; sport coat & chinos |
| Smart Casual | Informal but polished—typical for garden weddings | Linen, cotton, soft knits | Pastels, neutrals, light patterns | Sundresses, jumpsuits, dress shirts & tailored pants |
| Casual | Relaxed, often for beach, backyard, or destination weddings | Linen, cotton, rayon | Coral, sky blue, sage, tropical prints | Maxi dresses, short-sleeve shirts, loafers or sandals |
| Themed | Specific themes (e.g. boho, rustic, vintage) set by the couple | Varies by theme | Earth tones for rustic; white/ivory for vintage | Flowy gowns, suspenders, floral crowns depending on theme |
Factors to Consider Beyond the Dress Code
Even when a dress code is listed, consider these additional tips:
Season: Lightweight fabrics work best for warmer months, while velvet or long sleeves suit cooler seasons.
Venue: Outdoor venues may call for practical footwear and breathable fabrics, while formal indoor venues may require elevated elegance.
Time of Day: Lighter colors and simpler silhouettes are suited to daytime weddings; darker tones and embellishments are perfect for evening events.
Style with Confidence
Add statement accessories for personality.
Coordinate your look without matching the bridal party.
Always prioritize comfort—especially shoes!
Shop Wedding Guest Looks with Ease
Whether you’re looking for a glamorous evening gown, a floral midi dress, or a simple yet chic jumpsuit, you’ll find a wide range of styles suited to every wedding dress code—available both online and in-store from our boutique in Launceston, Tasmania. We ship Australia-wide and are always happy to help you find the perfect look.
With so many types of weddings happening today, understanding dress codes is key to arriving appropriately dressed and stylish. No matter the theme or venue, you can find the perfect outfit in our thoughtfully curated collection. Shop online 24/7 or visit us in-store to receive expert styling advice for your next event.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I wear black to a wedding?
Yes—especially for formal or evening weddings. Consider softening the look with accessories or feminine silhouettes.
Q2: Is a jumpsuit appropriate for a wedding?
Definitely. A well-tailored jumpsuit can be an elegant and modern alternative to dresses, perfect for cocktail or semi-formal events.
Q3: What’s the best outfit for a beach or garden wedding?
Think flowy, breathable fabrics like cotton or chiffon. Pastels, florals, or tropical prints work well—just avoid anything too casual like activewear.
