When you choose wedding attire wording and ask guests to follow one of the wedding dress codes we've defined below, you're doing them a massive favor. With a few words, you reduce the likelihood of a friend or family member feeling uncomfortable or awkward about their outfit, and remove the guesswork of getting dressed for your other wedding guests.
And as a reward for offering that helpful dress code, the overall vibe of your wedding will be more predictable. Everybody wins.
Dress Codes Guides
In the following dress code guides, you'll learn what each dress code means, and get outfit ideas to help you design both classic and modern outfits for wedding guests, the groom, and your wedding party.
Black Tie Wedding Dress Code →
Black Tie Optional (& Formal Attire) Wedding Dress Code →
Cocktail Wedding Dress Code →
Semi-Formal Wedding Dress Code →
Casual Wedding Dress Code →
A Note on Wedding Attire Wording for Wedding Invitations
Dress codes are already confusing enough without couples putting their own spin in the standard terms. If you're the one choosing, make it easy for your wedding guests by using wedding attire wording for invitations that is clear and easy to define with the help of a guide (like this one). The dress codes in this guide are widely used and consistently defined, so it's much less likely someone will misunderstand the wedding attire wording you put on your invitations.
What to Wear When There's No Wedding Dress Code
An outfit that follows the semi-formal attire wedding dress code will cover the majority of your wedding attire needs and cover you for any dress code. Here's what to wear when there's no dress code:
- Dark navy blue suit or charcoal suit
- White dress shirt (one with french cuffs, optional)
- Black dress shoes
- Necktie in a subdued color or simple pattern
- Pocket square coordinated but not matched to neckwear
This outfit works everywhere except the beach—in which case a casual attire outfit (light color suit, dress shirt, and dress shoes) will cover your bases.

The Right Fit for Your Wedding Dress Code
Understanding wedding dress codes can help you choose the right look, but it’s just as important that the suit or tux you choose actually fits you. That’s why we design suits and tuxedos with a modern cut and a better fit, and make it easy for everyone look good and feel ready to celebrate the wedding.
If you’re in the middle of wedding planning and need to make sure your look is perfect, you can check out the style and fit of our tuxedos from the comfort of home, on us, with a free home try-on.
You can also visit us in-person for expert advice and a personal fitting, or just answer a few simple questions now to find your sizes online.