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Understanding Dress Codes: Deciphering the dress code specified on the wedding invitation is the first step to dressing appropriately. Common dress codes for weddings include black-tie, formal, semi-formal, cocktail attire, and casual. Take cues from the invitation and venue to determine the level of formality required. Let's begin to decipher the different dress codes.
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Black-Tie Weddings: For black-tie weddings held in elegant venues such as ballrooms or upscale hotels, opt for floor-length gowns or sophisticated cocktail dresses for women. Men should wear tuxedos with a black bow tie and polished dress shoes. Accessories like statement jewelry and evening clutches add a touch of glamour. I always think of this as Social Status event, rubbing elbows with the wealthy.
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Formal and Semi-Formal Weddings: Formal and semi-formal wedding call for polished attire that strikes a balance between elegance and sophistication. Women can wear chic cocktail dresses or tailored suits, while men can opt for dark suits paired with dress shirts and ties. Choose fabrics like silk, satin, and lace for added refinement. This event is not as uber formal as Black-Tie.
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Cocktail Attire: Cocktail attire is perfect for weddings held in stylish venues like art galleries or chic restaurants. This is the festive and fun atmosphere but still formal. Women can wear knee-length dresses or chic separates paired with heels, and men can opt for tailored suits in lighter colors or stylish blazers paired with dress pants. Accessorize with statement jewelry that can be playful and sleek accessories that can add a touch of personality.
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Casual and Beach Weddings: Casual and beach weddings are usually your destination weddings and call for relaxed yet stylish attire suitable for outdoor settings. Women can opt for sundresses, maxi dresses, or chic jumpsuits paired with sandals or wedges, while men can wear linen suits, khakis, or dress shirts paired with loafers or boat shoes. Embrace lightweight fabrics and breezy silhouettes for comfort. This is the most relaxed venue for the couple and guests.
- White-Tie Weddings: This is a rare and elegant soiree and considered the greatest of formal dressing for this grand event. Women should wear full-length ball gowns that are floor-length made of elegant and luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet of any color. Accessories should be pearls, diamonds or other precious stones in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that is elegant. Heels should complement the gown and a small exquisite clutch. This event is where we would wear long gloves to the elbow or longer, while wearing a sleeveless or strapless gown. To be even more elegant, you can wear a tiara or headpiece. Men would wear a black tailcoat that end just behind their knees. Instead of a black bow tie, they will wear a white bow tie. Trousers will be black and have a satin strip down the side. The waistcoat is white, snugly fit and cover the trousers waistband. The shirt is white with a stiff front, detachable wing collar, and double cuff sleeves for cufflinks. His shoes are Black patent leather with a closed lace. Accessories for him would be the cufflinks, a pocket watch, and white pocket square, and could also have gloves that are white or gray. This very formal affair requires planning and possible rentals for the garments not usually owned. Just make sure you allow ample time to assemble your perfect outfit. You will be the Princess as the Bride will be the Queen.