What to Wear to a Formal Wedding: Do’s, Don’ts, and Stunning Outfit Ideas

By BrownAmeliaApr 28, 2025

What Does ‘Formal Wedding Attire’ Really Mean? | Understanding the Dress Code

When a couple writes “Formal,” “Black Tie,” or “Black Tie Optional” on their invitation, they’re giving you an important hint about the vibe they want for their celebration. But here’s the thing: Formal doesn’t mean one-size-fits-all. A summer garden wedding will feel very different from a winter evening affair at a grand ballroom.

Quick Breakdown of Formal Wedding Attire:

Black Tie: Tuxedos for men; floor-length evening gowns or formal cocktail dresses for women.

Formal / Black Tie Optional: Dark suits or tuxedos for men; long dresses, elegant midis, or structured jumpsuits for women.

White Tie: The most formal (and rarest)—tailcoats for men, full ballgowns for women.

Pro Tip: Always check the time of day and location on the invite. Outdoor summer weddings lean into lighter colors and fabrics like chiffon or satin, while winter events call for richer tones and luxe textures like velvet or sequins.

→ Explore our Formal Dresses Collection to find silhouettes made for every season and celebration.

Do’s: How to Get Your Formal Wedding Look Just Right

Here’s what works (and why):

✅ Lean Into Elegant Fabrics

Flowy chiffon, soft satin, delicate lace, or rich velvet bring the right balance of effortlessness and polish. These textures move beautifully and always photograph well.

✅ Opt for Floor-Length or Midi Dresses

For women, longer hemlines signal formality. If you’re choosing a midi, look for elevated details like pleating, ruching, or embellishments. Explore formal evening dresses or wedding guest gowns that offer movement and grace.

✅ Choose Accessories That Complement, Not Compete

Keep it simple but thoughtful: dainty earrings, a small clutch, and heels or dressy flats. Metallic tones like gold or silver add a soft shine without overpowering your outfit.

✅ Factor In the Season

Pastels and soft florals for spring daytime weddings

Pastel wedding guest dresses

Jewel tones like emerald, navy, or burgundy for evening or fall celebrations

emerald green formal wedding guest dresses

Velvet and sequins for winter black-tie events

Don’ts: What to Avoid When Dressing for a Formal Wedding

Yes, there are a few rules worth following—not because they’re strict, but because they show respect for the couple and the occasion.

❌ Don’t Mistake Cocktail for Formal

That short party dress might be cute, but formal usually calls for something longer and more refined. Browse our long formal dresses for options that feel elevated without feeling too “red carpet.”

❌ Avoid Casual Fabrics Like Jersey or Linen

Even if the cut feels dressy, the fabric can bring the whole look down. Choose materials that hold their shape and drape well.

❌ Steer Clear of White or Ivory

Unless the invitation says otherwise, let the bride shine in her moment.

❌ Don’t Over-Accessorize

Balance is key. One statement piece—a beautiful necklace, a pair of bold earrings—is often all you need.

→ Need more outfit ideas? See our guide on best wedding guest dresses for women.

Stunning Outfit Ideas for Formal Wedding Guests

Because knowing the dress code is one thing—but finding something that feels right on you is where the magic happens.

For Women:

Flowy A-line evening gowns with soft pleats that flatter every shape.

Shop Now: Ruffles Sleeve A-Line Chiffon Waist Applique Maxi Formal Evening Dress

Shop Now: A-Line Pleated Tie-Waist Evening Dress

Empire waist dresses or ruched formal gowns that highlight your best features while feeling easy to wear.

Shop Now: Glittery Empire Waist Long Lantern Sleeves A-Line Evening Dress

Sequin or satin formal maxi dresses for black-tie nights when you want a little sparkle.

Shop Now: Glitter V-Neck High Slit Sequin Shoulder Strap Evening Dress

Shop Now: Short Sleeves Sequin High Low V-Neck Midi Formal Evening Dress

For summer weddings: halter neck dresses or elegant off-the-shoulder gowns in lighter tones.

Shop Now: Elegant Cross Halter Neck Floral Satin Formal Dress with Bow Back

Shop Now: Satin Cross Halter Sleeveless Maxi Bridesmaid Dress

Plus-size beauties: Look for structured bodices and defined waistlines—explore our plus size formal dresses designed to celebrate every curve.

Shop Now: Plus Size Sequin Mermaid Formal Dresses

For Men:

Classic black tuxedo with a bow tie for black-tie events.

Charcoal or navy suit with a crisp white shirt and a silk tie for formal or black-tie optional weddings.

Add personality with details like cufflinks, a sleek watch, or a patterned pocket square.

Your Formal Wedding Attire FAQs, Answered

Q: Can I wear a jumpsuit to a formal wedding?

A: Absolutely—if it’s tailored and made with structured fabrics like satin or crepe. Look for wide-leg styles with a cinched waist for an elegant touch.

Q: Are floral prints OK for formal attire?

A: Yes! Just lean toward deeper, moodier florals for evening or opt for soft, subtle prints for daytime weddings.

Q: What shoes should I pair with a formal dress?

A: Heels, block heels, or dressy flats in metallic, nude, or black work beautifully. If the venue includes outdoor spaces (like a garden), block heels can help you avoid sinking into the grass.