What to Wear to a Wedding: Wedding Attire Guide

Black tie weddings call for tasteful yet glamorous formal wear. The classic choice is a satin or crepe evening gown in a timeless silhouette. Floor-grazing column, mermaid or full-skirted dresses may feature sashes, intricate pleats or draping. Complement your dress with heels or flats that have sparkling accents or a metallic finish. Complete your outfit with glittering earrings, a shining evening bag and a polished hairstyle.

With its elegant off-the-shoulder neckline and striking allover lace, the XSCAPE gown we selected from Macy’s is perfection even at the most formal event. Macy’s is a great place to find black tie as well as more casual dresses at reasonable prices, you can even get a 25% off Macy’s promo code by signing up fo r emails.

A request for cocktail attire gives you room to express your style, so choose a colorful dress with interesting details made from upscale fabrics like silk. Asymmetric hemlines, ruffles, bows and prints can make a dress special as long as they're not overwhelming, and brighter hues can be lovely in spring and summer. Hemlines that hit at your calf or just above your knee will be suitable for most weddings. You could also wear elevated separates or a tailored ankle-length jumpsuit. Since the look is upbeat, you can enhance your look with heels and statement jewelry, but don't outshine the bride.

The feather detail on the sleeves of the Tuckernuck dress we picked is fun and unique, while the conservative neckline and hem keep the look classy and wedding appropriate.

Casual cocktail attire is less structured and more laid-back than traditional cocktail wear, but the look is still chic. This style of apparel is perfect for an elegant outdoor or daytime wedding. Bright, neutral and patterned dresses like a below-the-knee silk halter-necked gown, a candy-colored linen sundress or a fit-and-flare midi dress with a sweetheart neckline are wonderful options. Pair your frock with flats, wedges or sandals for a polished, easy look.

Brands like Hello Molly and Mango are great options for finding casual cocktail attire. The Hello Molly dress we selected is stunning in bright blue satin and a mid-calf length that is a perfect pairing for a less formal event.

Formal wedding attire is less extravagant than black-tie apparel, yet it's still highly refined. A full-length gown, a modest below-the-knee cocktail dress or a carefully tailored suit can all be appropriate choices. Graceful and stylish A-line and sheath silhouettes in sophisticated colors are generally a safe bet; pick a flattering shape and a substantial fabric. Pair your dress with closed-toe heels or flats in dark, neutral or metallic colors. Accessorize with bold yet classic jewelry and a designer bag to finish your look.

Banana Republic, Nordstrom, and Macy’s all carry a wide selection of formal attire on any budget. The DKNY gown we selected from Macy’s is the quintessential formal dress, with its clean lines and rich black hue.

Semi-formal wedding attire falls between cocktail wear and casual apparel. The look features relaxed, less-structured short, knee-length or midi dresses in saturated colors and flowing fabrics like charmeuse or chiffon. Pair simple styles like wrap or slip dresses with a bright satin clutch. Darker shades work well for an evening celebration, while lighter colors and fabrics would suit a daytime wedding.

We love Lulus and Quince for their chic semi-formal wedding guest dresses, like this washable silk slip dress from Quince. The mulberry silk is easy-care and comfortable, and the simple design can be dressed up or down with accessories.

Morning weddings call for knee-length or midi dresses in light colors or floral prints. They shouldn't be too formal, but at some venues, you may want to add a hat. Choose a dress with sleeves or add a tailored jacket or blazer for modesty.

The Anthropologie maxi dress we’ve selected ticks all the boxes with its breezy fit and a floral pattern in shades of blue. Not quite what you’re looking for? These other Anthropologie wedding guest dress options look exceptional too and are a great deal if you sign up for their newsletter and receive a $20 Anthropologie coupon.

When the sun is high, a semi-formal midi or tea-length frock in a soft hue will do nicely. Pick a dress you would wear to a church or temple that isn't too bare. If you're attending an outdoor or warm-weather wedding, you could wear a simple dress with wide straps or flutter sleeves.

The pale lilac shade and flowy style of this BHLDN mini dress made exclusively for Anthropologie provides coverage for shoulders and arms, while the shorter hem length is the perfect for showcasing strappy heels or sandals.

Late afternoon and early evening weddings call for cocktail or semi-formal apparel in deep and vibrant shades. This is the perfect time to wear shimmering fabrics and show a bit more skin.

We chose the BHLDN dress made exclusively for Anthropologie in a gorgeous navy blue floral as our late afternoon pick. The darker shade and ankle-grazing length help this maxi dress transition from day to evening wear, and the satin fabric provides subtle shine.

After 6 p.m., it's time to put on your formal or black-tie attire. You can wear a tea-length or floor-length gown in a rich fabric.

This Donna Karen New York dress from Macy’s features gold sequin embellishments over a black, flowing design to add some shimmer to your evening look.

Pretty is the word for spring wedding attire, so wear a floral or pastel outfit made with delicate, lightweight fabrics. A dress or separates in chiffon, organza, silk or linen will be a lovely choice.

It’s hard to choose just one brand for spring-inspired dresses, but Tuckernuck, Lulus and Mango all offer a great mix of floral patterns and breezy fabrics. The Mango dress we chose in a pale blue floral pattern features a longer, midi length and structured pleats to keep the outfit from looking too casual.

Bright colors and airy styles in breathable linen, cotton and silk are perfect choices for summer wedding apparel. Flowy and crisp designs will keep you feeling cool and looking chic in the heat. Be sure to choose a style and cut that match the dress code for the event, it’s easy to veer toward too-casual with summery fabrics.

The lightweight georgette fabric of the Reformation dress we picked will keep you cool at a summer celebration, while the long length and fitted bodice ensure the dress is wedding appropriate.

Dresses and suits in rich earth tones like burgundy, forest green, and pumpkin can be lovely choices for a fall wedding. Pick styles in textured fabrics, or pair a jumpsuit with an oversized blazer for a sleek look.

The deep forest green of the Reformation dress we chose complements any fall wedding color palette, and the lightweight silk charmeuse fabric looks effortlessly sophisticated when paired with the long length and high neckline.

Heavy satin or velvet suits and gowns are luxurious picks for a winter wedding. Dressing in darker jewel tones or navy can add a luxurious touch to your look. For extra warmth, carry an elegant shawl or wrap in silk or cashmere.

The Tuckernuck dress we selected will keep your legs warm with its long length and minimal back vent slit. The pop of color from the puff sleeve detail will make your dress stand out against the sea of dark-colored winter formalwear.