I’m sharing my (hopefully) helpful wedding guest attire tips and dress code tips today!

Being that it’s the beginning of wedding season and my friends know I’m a fashion blogger, I’m getting tons and tons of questions about what to wear to weddings this season. So instead of having the same conversation over and over again, I thought I’d create a helpful blog post that I can continue pointing people back to!

Below, I’m giving my wedding guest attire tips that apply year-round and I’m breaking down the different dress codes for the weddings you might attend this summer and what to wear to them.

|| Wedding Guest Attire Tips ||

1 || Don’t wear all white.

I know, this one is probably an obvious one, but it’s still super important and must be listed. If your dress has some white in it (like mine pictured in this post), that’s just fine. But any more white and you start to steal the bride’s thunder!

2 || Wear comfortable shoes (or be willing to suck it up and wear your uncomfortable ones all night).

My biggest pet peeve at weddings is seeing the women running around at the end of the night with no shoes on. I’m so sorry to offend you if you’ve ever done this before, but I just can’t. It’s partly because of the fact that I can’t handle the thought of black, dirty feet at the end of the night, but it’s also because weddings are a sophisticated event and the way we act/dress should also match that! If you’re incapable of wearing a certain pair of shoes for longer than 3 hours, either 1) don’t wear them and opt for a more comfortable pair or 2) sit down and let your feet rest every now and then, or 3) wear that cute, but uncomfortable pair for the ceremony and bring a pair of flats for the reception.

3 || Don’t wear anything too flashy or revealing.

Remember, this is the bride’s day. If you show up in an all-sequined dress or a super short, plunging neckline type of dress, it takes away from the bride. Always go for the more sophisticated, conservative look and you can’t go wrong.

4 || Consider where the ceremony & reception is taking place and match your shoes to the location.

Yep, another shoe tip. Is the ceremony being held outside under a dreamy tree? Then stilettos won’t be your friend once you start sinking into the grass. Go for wide-heeled sandals or wedges instead. Is part of the wedding going to be outside where it’s slightly chilly? Skip the open-toed shoes and opt for a pair of closed-toe heels instead.

5 || Pay attention to the dress code.

Some invitations will list the dress code for you, so pay attention to what it says and dress accordingly. Below are my dress code tips for what’s appropriate to wear for each.

But what if the invitation doesn’t mention a dress code? Don’t stress – There a few things that can help point you in the right direction. Take a look at the invitation itself: Is is super formal with tons of inserts and fancy calligraphy? Then it’s probably more formal. Or is it a postcard with a more casual font? Then it’ll be more laid-back. You can also look at the location of the ceremony and reception. If it’s outdoors or on a beach, it’s probably more casual. If it’s in a church or at a country club, it’s best to assume slightly nicer attire. If the dress code is really confusing you, you can always 1) play it safe with a knee-length little black dress with heels or 2) ask someone else that’s attending what they’ll be wearing… at least then you won’t be alone! Remember, it’s all about the bride anyway!

|| Dress Code Tips ||

Black-tie || This means it’s formal, elegant, and stunning. And that it’s in the evening.

What to wear: A long gown, an elegant cocktail dress, a dressy LBD (little black dress) all in darker, after-hours colors; heels

Black-tie Optional / Formal || Still formal and in the evening, but less strict. It’s not expected that women wear a floor-length gown, but the event will still be dressy enough for one to be appropriate.

What to wear: A long gown, a dressy cocktail dress, a LBD; heels

Cocktail/Semiformal || Still dressed up, but a little more fun and party-ready! Knee-length dresses are expected and it’s okay to have a  little fun with the color.

What to wear: A cocktail dress (obviously), a LBD, a knee-length fun-colored dress; heels

Dressy Casual (what most weddings are) || The best way to think of this one is your “Sunday best”. Remember to take note of the time. If it’s during the daytime, lighter colors and fabrics are great. If it’s at nighttime, go for darker colors.

What to wear: Casual dresses, a skirt and blouse, a jumper, a romper, dress pants and a blouse (definitely no jeans); feel free to add a blazer to dress it all up a bit; heels, wedges, heeled sandals, dressy flat sandals, dressy flats

Casual || This indicates the wedding is probably outside or will be very laid back. However, do remember that it’s still a wedding and you should still look nice. So should you wear ripped boyfriend jeans and a t-shirt? No. You still want to look acceptable to celebrate the couples day!

What to wear: Sundress, skirt and top, dressy pants and a top, a jumpsuit, a romper; sandals, flats

Beach || This means you’ll obviously be on the beach and will need to dress appropriately (sun-ready accessories, no heels, etc).

What to wear: A sundress, a romper; sandals, wedges

|| SHOP THE POST ||

dress || clutch || similar heels || earrings || bracelets and link bracelet

What else would you add to my wedding guest attire tips? I’d love to hear your input in the comments!