Wedding guest attire

The difference between black tie and cocktail wedding guest attire explained

So you’ve been invited to a wedding. But now you’re wondering what the heck is proper wedding guest attire?! Good news is you now have an excuse to go shopping for a new dress or suit.

Today I’m sharing some outfit inspo for what to wear to the next wedding you attend.

And if it’s not in your budget to buy a new dress for a single event, considering renting a dress. Companies like Rent the Runway are perfect for special occasions, like being a wedding guest.

Know the Dress Code

One thing you’ll need to know is the dress code. Typically, invitations will indicate “Black Tie” for a formal event. You may see “Black Tie Optional” or “Cocktail Attire”. If the invitation does not indicate either, it is cocktail attire. If you’re unsure, always reach out to the couple.

I suggest choosing your attire to match the venue and season. Soft pastels for a spring or summer wedding. Jewel tones for a fall or winter wedding. A linen fabric or sun dress is appropriate for a beach wedding. Neutrals are perfect any time of year. Just make sure it fits with the couple’s requests.

Black Tie or Cocktail Attire?

A black tie event is one that is a more formal, fancier atmosphere. This means you’re going to have to get dressed up. Men are mean to wear tuxedos while women are expected to wear floor length gowns.

Black tie optional or cocktail attire loosens up the formality a bit. You can choose to wear a tuxedo or floor length gown but you can also choose to a formal suit or cocktail dress. If you’re unsure, a lot of dress sites have a filter for black tie or cocktail!

Jumpsuits can be a bit of a grey area. Is it black tie or not? That honestly depends on the style of the jumpsuit. Opt for one that is tailored and elevated.

Oh and hot take, ladies should still avoid wearing anything white or light colored. So avoid creams, taupes, light pinks, light greys. You don’t want to take the spotlight off of the beautiful bride 🙂

Scroll down for some great options for the next time you are a wedding guest!

Women

Black Tie

Black Tie Optional

Men

Black Tie

Black Tie Optional

The great thing with black tie optional is that you don’t necessarily need to wear a jacket, a dress shirt and tie is perfect.

I hope you have so much fun at the next wedding you attend! Happy shopping!

 

 

Looking for more weddings? Check out this Historic Inns of Annapolis wedding day.

If you are a couple reading this, I’d love to chat about your wedding day or engagement session in Baltimore and DC! Please feel free to reach out. Now booking for 2025 and 2026 weddings.

Nicole Simensky Photography is a Baltimore wedding photographer for the modern couple, bringing bold emotional storytelling to your wedding day. Through a calm and comfortable approach, your wedding memories will be captured authentically. Nicole Simensky Photography serves Baltimore, Maryland, Washington DC, and beyond.