Attending a formal wedding is a wonderful opportunity to dress up and make a statement, but when it comes to formal wedding attire, the options can be overwhelming. Black tie, white tie, and other dress codes can leave you wondering what exactly you should wear. Whether you’re the bride, a guest, or in the wedding party, knowing how to dress according to the event’s formality can make all the difference.
In this guide, we will break down what to wear to a formal wedding, covering the different types of dress codes such as Black Tie, White Tie, and more. We’ll also provide recommendations for stunning dresses and suits that match each dress code, where to buy them, and how to choose the right outfit for your body type and personal style.
Understanding Formal Wedding Dress Codes
Black Tie Attire
Black tie is one of the most common dress codes for formal weddings, especially in the evening. This dress code calls for elegant and sophisticated attire, typically involving tuxedos for men and formal evening gowns for women.
For Men:
- Tuxedo with a black bow tie
- Black formal shoes (patent leather preferred)
- Cufflinks and a pocket square to complete the look
For Women:
- Floor-length gown or a fancy cocktail dress
- Formal accessories, like diamonds or pearls
- High heels to add sophistication and elongate your silhouette
White Tie Attire
White tie is even more formal than black tie and is often seen at gala events or royal ceremonies. This dress code is typically reserved for the most high-profile occasions, requiring both men and women to dress with the utmost formality.
For Men:
- Tailcoat tuxedo with a white shirt and bow tie
- Black patent leather shoes and white gloves (optional)
- Formal dress shirt with studs and a waistcoat
For Women:
- Full-length evening gown with elegant accessories
- Long gloves to add to the dramatic effect
- Heels or formal shoes to complete the luxurious appearance
Cocktail Attire
While not as formal as Black Tie or White Tie, cocktail attire is still a step above casual dressing and suitable for many semi-formal weddings. Women often wear short or knee-length dresses, while men opt for dark suits.
For Men:
- Dark suit with a tie
- Dress shoes and polished accessories
For Women:
- Knee-length or midi dress in elegant fabrics like silk or satin
- Heels and statement jewelry
Casual/Formal Attire
While some weddings may call for casual formal attire, it’s essential to still maintain an air of sophistication. For women, this could mean a stylish cocktail dress, and for men, a button-up shirt and dress pants.
Recommended Wedding Outfits for Formal Attire
To help you choose the perfect outfit for a formal wedding, we’ve rounded up some top-rated products that are tailored to different dress codes, offering great options for both men and women. Check out these fashion-forward options that cater to the most common wedding attire requirements:
1. Oscar de la Renta Off-the-Shoulder Gown
Oscar de la Renta Off-the-Shoulder Gown
- Price: $3,490
- Features: Full-length, off-the-shoulder design, luxurious silk fabric
- Pros: Elegant and timeless, suitable for White Tie events
- Cons: Expensive for most budgets
- Best for: White Tie formal weddings
This off-the-shoulder gown from Oscar de la Renta is the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Made from fine silk, the gown is perfect for white tie events, offering a flattering and elegant silhouette. Its classic design ensures you’ll look stunning while staying within the expectations of high-formality weddings.
2. Tuxedo by Tom Ford
- Price: $3,500
- Features: Classic tuxedo, satin peak lapels, wool blend
- Pros: High-end craftsmanship, perfect for Black Tie weddings
- Cons: Premium price point
- Best for: Black Tie weddings
This Tom Ford tuxedo is a sleek, modern take on the classic black tie attire. The satin peak lapels and wool blend fabric offer a sharp, sophisticated look. Ideal for a Black Tie wedding, this tuxedo will make you stand out at the event.
3. Amsale Classic Silk Satin Evening Gown
Amsale Classic Silk Satin Evening Gown
- Price: $1,500
- Features: Floor-length, silk satin fabric, strapless design
- Pros: Timeless elegance, suitable for Black Tie events
- Cons: Strapless design may not be suitable for all body types
- Best for: Black Tie weddings
Amsale’s silk satin evening gown is a classic choice for a formal wedding. Its strapless design is flattering and elongates the figure, while the luxurious fabric adds a touch of sophistication. This gown is perfect for Black Tie events, and its classic cut ensures it will never go out of style.
4. Hugo Boss Dark Wool Suit
- Price: $950
- Features: Dark wool, slim fit, single-breasted
- Pros: Versatile and elegant, perfect for both Black Tie and Cocktail Attire
- Cons: Slim fit may not suit all body types
- Best for: Black Tie or Cocktail Attire
Hugo Boss Its slim fit cut offers a contemporary look for Black Tie or Cocktail Attire weddings. The timeless dark color makes it versatile, while the fine wool fabric ensures comfort throughout the event.
5. BOSS Women’s Satin Dress with Bow Detail
- Price: $399
- Features: Satin material, bow detail at the waist, midi length
- Pros: Elegant and feminine, affordable for a formal dress
- Cons: Limited to Black Tie or Cocktail Attire events
- Best for: Black Tie or Cocktail Attire weddings
The BOSS Women’s Satin Dress is an elegant choice for Black Tie or Cocktail Attire weddings. The bow detail at the waist creates a flattering silhouette, while the satin fabric adds luxury. Its midi length offers versatility, making it suitable for a variety of formal occasions.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Use Case | Pros | Cons | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oscar de la Renta Off-the-Shoulder Gown | White Tie weddings | Elegant, timeless, high-quality silk | High price tag | $3,490 | Off-the-shoulder, floor-length, silk fabric |
| Tom Ford Black Tuxedo | Black Tie weddings | Classic, sophisticated, tailored fit | Expensive | $3,500 | Satin peak lapels, wool blend |
| Amsale Classic Silk Satin Evening Gown | Black Tie weddings | Luxurious silk, flattering strapless design | Not suitable for all body types | $1,500 | Strapless, silk satin, floor-length |
| Hugo Boss Dark Wool Suit | Black Tie, Cocktail Attire | Modern fit, versatile, elegant | Slim fit may not suit everyone | $950 | Slim fit, dark wool, single-breasted |
| BOSS Women’s Satin Dress | Black Tie, Cocktail Attire | Elegant, feminine, affordable | Limited to formal occasions | $399 | Satin, bow detail, midi length |
Where to Buy and How to Purchase
How to Buy
- Oscar de la Renta Off-the-Shoulder Gown
Available at Oscar de la Renta’s Official Website, this gown can be purchased directly online or in-store.
Price: $3,490. - Tom Ford Black Tuxedo
Purchase this elegant tuxedo at Tom Ford’s Official Website.
Price: $3,500. - Amsale Classic Silk Satin Evening Gown
Available at Amsale’s Website, perfect for Black Tie events.
Price: $1,500. - Hugo Boss Dark Wool Suit
Purchase through Hugo Boss Official Website.
Price: $950. - BOSS Women’s Satin Dress
Available at Hugo Boss’s Website, great for both Black Tie and Cocktail Attire.
Price: $399.
5 FAQs
1. What is the difference between Black Tie and White Tie dress codes?
White Tie is more formal than Black Tie, typically requiring a tailcoat for men and full-length gowns with gloves for women. Black Tie is less formal and often involves a tuxedo for men and evening gowns for women.
2. Can I wear a short dress to a Black Tie wedding?
While Black Tie typically calls for a floor-length gown for women, you can wear a shorter dress if it’s particularly elegant and made from luxurious materials like satin or silk.
3. Is it necessary to wear a tuxedo to a Black Tie wedding?
Yes, men are generally expected to wear a tuxedo for a Black Tie event, although alternatives such as a dark suit can sometimes be acceptable.
4. What shoes should I wear to a White Tie wedding?
For White Tie events, men should wear black patent leather shoes, while women should opt for formal heels or closed-toe shoes, often in satin or velvet.
5. Where can I find affordable formal wedding attire?
You can find affordable formal wedding attire at retailers like H&M, Zara, and BOSS, where you can find elegant yet budget-friendly options.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect formal wedding attire that suits your body type, style, and the event’s dress code. Whether you’re attending a Black Tie, White Tie, or Cocktail Attire wedding, you’ll feel confident and stylish in these elegant picks.
