Story last updated at 1:35 PM EST on June 24, 2007 Guests should dress for occasion
There is a good chance that you've been invited to a wedding — or will be — where the expected attire was a mystery. Unless the invitation specifically mentions "black tie" or another dress code, you could be taking a guess as to what is appropriate to wear.
No one wants to be the odd person out, wearing an outfit that is inconsistent with the scope of the wedding. Usually, there are hints that will offer you ideas about the formality of the wedding. Act as a super sleuth and follow the clues:
Look at the invitation. Does it have all of the markers of a formal wedding: thick card stock, engraved typeset, calligraphy on the envelope? Or does it casually invite you to watch the couple tie the knot? Typically, the invitation will set the tone of the wedding.
Consider the location of the ceremony and reception. Chances are if the couple is being married on the beach and having a clambake as their party, they won't expect women to wear an evening gown and gents to wear tails. But if you recognize the reception hall to be a formal or semi-formal venue, the dress code likely is similar.
Take your cues from the bride and her wedding party. If you've heard the bride will be wearing a cathedral-length veil and elaborate wedding gown, chances are she's going for a formal wedding. If you know the bridesmaids are wearing sarongs and flip flops, it's probably a casual affair.
Don't be afraid to ask. Ring the bride or groom, or their parents, and inquire as to what type of atmosphere it will be.
If you're mortified by this idea, err on the side of caution by choosing something that is conservative. Ladies usually can't go wrong with a black cocktail dress and men can play it safe in a dark-colored suit and tie.
Follow these guidelines:
Black tie
Her: A formal dress, usually to the floor. Coordinate with a beaded purse and elegant wrap. Expect to dance, so don't wear anything too revealing or constricting.
Him: A tuxedo is the only appropriate thing to wear.
Evening wedding
Her: Dress as if you were going to the theater or a fancy restaurant. Cocktail dresses are appropriate, or dressy suits. Avoid anything with sequins or too flashy. Suits shouldn't be too stuffy or "corporate."
Him: A dark suit is always a safe bet. If you suspect it is semi-formal, you might be able to wear a blazer, slacks and a tie.
Daytime wedding
Her: A conservative but fun floral dress or light-colored suit.
Him: A light-colored suit if it is a summer wedding. For winter, dress warmer in a blazer and slacks with either a dress shirt or sweater underneath. Tuxedos should not be worn before 6 p.m.
What not to wear, ever
It is safe to assume that the following are not appropriate to wear to a wedding.
Black to a daytime wedding. You'll look like you are in mourning.
White. It competes with the bride.
Jeans.
Anything torn, dirty or ill-fitting.
Anything too revealing, particularly to a religious wedding.
— Metro Editorial Services
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