Can I Wear Shift Formal Dress to a Wedding
It's not the same as black tie.
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So, you received an invitation to a wedding and it requires "formal wedding attire." While this is one of the most popular wedding attires on the dress code spectrum, you might still be stumped on what to wear to a formal wedding and how it differs from other formalwear, like black tie or cocktail. To give you a helping hand, we've tapped experts to break down formal attire for weddings, including what it means, what to wear (and what to avoid) and how to accessorize. Plus, we've rounded up outfit examples—including dresses, jumpsuits, suits and tuxedos—that you can shop on the spot. Read on for our expert advice.
In this article:
- What Is Formal Attire for a Wedding?
- Formal Wedding Attire for Women
- Formal Wedding Attire for Men
What Is Formal Attire for a Wedding?
"Formal wedding attire sits between cocktail and black tie on the wedding dress code scale. It's slightly more elevated than cocktail attire and a touch less dressy than a black-tie nuptial," says Alex Rivera, a stylist at Stitch Fix, a personal styling service. Formal wedding attire (synonymous with black-tie optional attire) offers more flexibility than black tie, so dressy separates and dresses that hit above the ankle are acceptable, as well as fitted, darker-hued suits paired with a crisp white button-down and tie, adds Rivera.
While shopping for formal wedding outfits, start by considering the venue and season. "These two important details will help provide an idea for the ambiance, the couple's personal taste, and ensure you've dressed appropriately for the occasion," explains Rivera. For example, for summer events, lighter fabrics, brighter colors and shorter hems are common for formal attire. On the flipside—if you're attending a winter wedding—darker shades, thicker fabrics and longer sleeves and hems are the way to go. In summary, prioritize seasonally appropriate pieces that are elevated and fancy, but still feel like you.
Unlike black-tie attire, you have much more flexibility when it comes to colors, embellishments and hem lengths. "Don't be afraid to have a little fun with your fashion either through a fun color or playful print," says Bridal Stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz. "A knee-length dress, midi dress, or even a flowy maxi dress are all appropriate; I also love the idea of a jumpsuit, suit or a patterned suit or a tuxedo with a standard necktie rather than a bow tie." As for accessories, a "colorful shoe, patterned tie, statement piece of jewelry or a fun pair of sunglasses (if the wedding is outdoors)" are all ways to add personality to your ensemble, according to Hurwitz.
Overall, pick an outfit that you truly love and feel your best in, while still being respectful of the couple's attire request. As for colors to avoid for formal weddings, steer clear of "white, ivory, cream, or champagne-colored dresses and light-colored suits," continues Rivera. You should also avoid pieces that may read as too casual, such as a "cotton sundress or sports coat with chino pants," advises Hurwitz.
Now that you're familiar with formal wedding attire and what it means, it's time to dive into our top outfit picks! With the guidance of our experts, we've searched high and low for the best formal wedding outfits for every style, from chic black jumpsuits to sleek patterned suits.
Formal Wedding Attire for Women
Formal wedding guest dresses include both evening gowns and elegant cocktail frocks, so pick the hemline you feel best in. That being said, you don't have to wear a dress at all. "A jumpsuit is the perfect alternative to a dress and will provide ultimate comfort for a busy day of wedding festivities," says Rivera. We're also big fans of suits and other dressy separates. Check out our favorite styles, below.
Nightway One-Shoulder Long Sleeve Gown in Black
For formal wedding attire, you can't go wrong with a classy black gown. The one-shoulder neckline, single long sleeve and side slit all exude sophistication. Accessorize your outfit with gold statement earrings and dressy black heels.
Reformation Kinsale Set in Black
We can't get over how stylish this black pantsuit from Reformation is. The modern ensemble consists of an oversized black blazer and coordinating wide-leg trousers. Plus, it has front and back pockets that can store anything from your phone to your lip gloss. Throw in a colorful pair of mules to balance out the muted look.
ASTR The Label Bryna Ruffle Strap Satin Maxi Dress in Dusty Sage
Silky smooth satin is one of our favorite formal fabrics for the cooler months. From the square neckline to the ruffled shoulder straps, you'll look undeniably elegant in this maxi-length number. Plus, the cutout strappy back adds a flirty element to the dreamy silhouette. As for colors, the Dusty Sage and Slate Blue are our top picks for formal wedding attire.
Reformation Veria Silk Dress in Orchids
A refined floral print is also appropriate for formal attire. All eyes will be on you in this stunning silk floral wedding guest dress. Notable highlights include the adjustable halter neckline, elegant wrap front and ruched bodice. Better yet, the black, white and green botanical print is a whimsical pattern for all year round.
Betsy & Adam Petite Boat-Neck Waterfall Ruffle Detail Gown in Rose Pink
This formal petite wedding guest dress is a stunning choice for spring or summer nuptials. The highlight of this piece is the dramatic ruffled bodice that flows into a sleek leg slit. The modest boat neckline will look beautiful paired with sparkly statement earrings. Choose from two dreamy hues: Rose Pink or Sky Blue.
Lulus Captured Your Heart Halter Maxi Dress in Hunter Green
Here's a classic formal wedding outfit that'll garner tons of compliments. Crafted from lightweight and airy chiffon, it boasts a classy halter neckline, princess-seamed bodice and breezy mermaid maxi skirt accented with a side slit. It's a foolproof beach wedding guest dress for sophisticated seaside soirées.
A.L.C Renzo Pleated Halter Midi Dress in Blue
For your next formal wedding, this classic high-neck halter dress—recommended by Rivera—is a worthwhile pick for the dance floor. Rivera suggests accessorizing with dainty earrings, a small handbag and heels, then you're good to go!
Adrianna Papell Plus-Size Metallic Signature Blouson Gown in Burgundy
You'll sparkle all night long in this metallic wedding guest dress for formal weddings. The dazzling frock is accented with a surplice neckline, blouson bodice and flowy skirt. The elbow-length sleeves and rich burgundy shade make this an ideal outfit for fall or winter functions.
BHLDN Leila Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress in Sand Dune
Effortlessly elegant, this wedding dress for a formal wedding is simply gorgeous. The plunge neckline, three-quarter length sleeves and gracefully draped bodice define this refined number. Style it with dangly earrings and chic mules for a standout wedding guest ensemble.
Lulus Perfectly Glamorous Black Rhinestone Cutout Jumpsuit in Black
A dress is not your only option for formal wedding attire. What about this sophisticated black wedding guest jumpsuit? With a crew neckline, rhinestone-adorned waist cutout and elegant wide-leg pants, it's a stylish and dressy piece that prioritizes comfort.
ASOS DESIGN Tall Peekaboo Shoulder Tuck Midi Pencil Dress in Parisian Blue
Some short wedding guest dress styles are appropriate for formal attire, like this blue midi dress with a striking, draped design. The tall-friendly frock has an elegant one-shoulder neckline and a simple midi skirt to balance out the dramatic twist detail on the bodice.
Formal Wedding Attire for Men
Formal weddings are great because the dress code is fancy (it's fun to get dressed up!) but also flexible. Men can wear a tuxedo, but they don't have to—a dark suit and tie are also appropriate. Dress shoes fit the bill when it comes to footwear. Consider patent leather loafers for a tux or laced oxfords for a suit. A formal wedding is also the perfect time to break out cufflinks. "Pair them with a french cuff (a shirt with a double cuff), and make sure your sleeve extends slightly past the length of your jacket so the cufflinks are visible," says Rivera.
Ted Baker London Josh Trim Fit Shawl Lapel Tuxedo in Navy
This timeless navy blue tuxedo with contrast shawl lapels is a fresh take on formal wedding attire for men. Although the price tag is hefty, you can rewear this outfit to future weddings and other upscale events. Note: This tux runs small, so order one size up to achieve your best fit.
ASOS Twisted Tailor Plus Ellroy Skinny Fit Suit Set in Black
You'll look dapper in this formal plus-size black suit set for formal weddings. The suit includes regular-rise black suit pants and a tailored suit jacket with shawl lapels, padded shoulders and a skinny fit. Complete your wedding-ready outfit with a pocket square, necktie and dress shoes.
Bonobos Italian Performance Suit in Mason Solid Charcoal
Charcoal is another foolproof color choice for formal weddings. Crafted from Luxe Marzotto® wool with four-way stretch, this upscale suit is liquid-resistant and wrinkle-proof (we're impressed!). Plus, the Italian performance blazer and matching suit pants come in a variety of different fits, including slim, athletic, tailored and standard.
Brooks Brothers Regent Fit Glen Suit in Plaid 1818
For men's formal wedding attire, you can't go wrong with a dark suit with a subtle pattern, like this stylish plaid ensemble. Choose your chest size, then select from three lengths: short, regular or long. Spruce up your look with a silk pocket square, sleek necktie and leather penny loafers.
Ralph by Ralph Lauren Windowpane Suit Jacket and UltraFlex Stretch Wool Suit Pants in Blue
Available in long and regular sizes, this Ralph Lauren suit jacket is a foolproof option for formal attire. It's made from a wood-polyester blend and features notched lapels, a two-button front and a welt chest pocket. Another bonus? The jacket has hidden relaxer stretch panels for extra mobility and comfort.
Pronto Uomo Notch Lapel Modern Fit Tuxedo in Black
You can't go wrong with a timeless black tuxedo for men's formal wedding attire. From the satin-faced notch lapel to the striped trousers with a satin waistband, you'll be the best-dressed guest at the party. Elevate your outfit with a printed bow tie and a pair of dressy oxfords or loafers.
Indochino Highworth Suit in Burgundy
Deep burgundy is one of our favorite alternative color options for formal attire. This dapper suit from Indochino was made for upscale occasions. The fabric contains a unique geometric diamond weave and has other high-quality components, including fully canvassed lapels, bullhorn buttons and shoulder pads.
Bonobos Capstone Italian Wool Tuxedo Jacket Extended Sizes in Black Shawl Collar
We also recommend this classic black tuxedo jacket made for extended sizes. For extra comfort, it contains extra darting under the lapels, an increased chest width, a lower neckline and extra space between the front buttons. Choose from two blazer fits: standard or prominent.
ASOS DESIGN Skinny Suit Jacket and Skinny Suit Pants in Forest Green
This deep green shade is another excellent color for formal wedding attire. The single-breasted suit jacket has notch lapels, padded shoulders and two-button fastening. Meanwhile, the regular-rise pants offer a slim, skinny fit in the same captivating shade. Buy the matching green suit vest for a fully coordinated ensemble.
Indochino Highbridge Nailhead Suit in Navy
This formal navy suit for wedding guests should definitely be on your radar. You can customize the suit or turn it into a tuxedo to make it even more upscale. And you can even add a vest to complete your ensemble. Simply follow the directions for your customizations, then make your picks. (Yes, it's really that easy.)
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Source: https://www.theknot.com/content/formal-wedding-attire