SOS dress codes: what to wear to a wedding?
07/08/2024 09:00 | Tips & tricks
Cocktail, black tie, dinner jacket, ... Sometimes couples mention a dress code on their wedding invitations. No clue what they mean? We explain them and send you well-dressed to the wedding party.
Photo (above): Photographer: Philippe Swiggers
If there is a dress code on the invitation, don't just ignore it. After all, the (fashion) will of the couple is law on their big day.
Dress code white tie
This is the most formal dress code. Men in this case wear a dress suit. This is a dinner jacket with long panels at the back. They pair it with a white shirt and a bow tie. Women wear a long evening dress, possibly with gloves over the elbow.
Photo: Hat: Fabienne Delvigne
Dress code black tie / cravate noir / smoking
Many synonyms for one dress code. Men choose a dark two- or three-piece suit with a white shirt. Women wear a long evening dress below the knee.
Photo: Costumes: The Suitlab Suitekledij
Dress code cocktail
Cocktail stands for 'dressed up'. Women pull out their best party dress for the occasion. It doesn't even have to be below the knee. Combine with a pair of heels, a clutch and some accessories - as long as you look festive. For this dress code, men don a dark tailored suit or dinner jacket with a steamed shirt and the necessary attributes (e.g. tie).
Photo: Dress: Atelier ExC Suitekledij
Dress code city clothes
Also called tenue de ville. In this case, women put on a suit, pantsuit or dress. A hat is allowed but not a must. The same goes for the purse. Men dress neatly with a suit or a vest with dress trousers.
Photo: Cloak suit: Dianna David Suitekledij
Smart casual or casual
Or the least formal dress codes. With casual, you completely choose what to wear. Smart casual is just that bit more chic. For men, a suit is not necessary, but neat trousers and a nice shirt are. Women are very free in this case.
Photo: Clothing: Natan
Tip: As a guest, never wear an all-white outfit to a wedding party. You don't want to offend the bride on her big day. Of course, you can combine white with other colours (for example, a white skirt with a coloured top). Also avoid pearls as an accessory, as these would symbolise 'tears'. And we don't want to see those at a wedding!
Photo: Clothing: Grécie
Of course, you can always ask for advice in the shop. Specialised bridal shops usually know the etiquette very well!
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