What to Wear as a Guest of a Spring Formal Wedding - Dress for the Wedding (2024)

FAQs

What is spring formal attire for a wedding? ›

Formal/Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses for Spring

White tie definitely dictates a ball gown for the ladies, but black tie gives you a little more leeway. If in doubt, wear a floor-length gown when the invitation says black tie. Black tie optional is a little more permissive.

Women should consider tea-length, knee-length, or midi dresses instead of floor-length gowns. While tuxedos are no longer obligatory, men should still opt for a suit and tie.

For women, this is once again an opportunity to wear a formal floor-length gown in satin, crepe, chiffon or silk while accessorizing with refined jewelry such as pearls or diamonds. Heels are recommended, but if you're looking to be more comfortable, you can wear dressy flats.

Neutral shades are timeless options that won't detract from the wedding's formal atmosphere. For a more colorful look, consider wearing shades of blue, lavender, or pink to show that you're in the celebratory spirit. If the wedding is in a tropical destination, opt for colors like yellow, orange, and green.

"Guests can absolutely wear black to a wedding," says Shawne Jacobs, President and Creative Director of Anne Barge.

You can absolutely wear a cropped dress to a wedding "and there are so many short dresses for wedding guests that are definitely appropriate," says Francesca Prudente, art director at Karen Millen. "A short dress is when the hem sits above the knee," she says. However, it shouldn't be revealing.

Yellow, pink, lilac, and green dresses are all great options to wear as a wedding guest. Dresses with patterns and floral designs also work well for the spring season—just be sure you aren't wearing the same color as the bride's bridal party, and of course, stay away from white! Can I wear black to a wedding?

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.

Men typically wear tuxedos or dark suits for formal events and suits or blazers for semi-formal events. Women often opt for floor-length gowns for formal events and stylish co*cktail dresses or pantsuits for semi-formal events.

Can you wear a floral dress to a formal wedding? The short answer: Yes! Floral wedding guest dresses come in so many different styles, from festive frocks to sexy slips. No matter the dress code of the event you're attending, you're bound to find a floral wedding guest dress that's perfect for the occasion.

Can I wear a knee-length dress to a formal wedding? ›

For the women, formal pantsuits or co*cktail dresses are great, but keep in mind the dress length should be just above the knee or longer. Take the time of day into account, as well: darker fabrics for evening weddings, lighter colors and fabrics are OK for daytime events.

Traditionally women are expected to wear a floor length evening dress to a formal wedding. Often a sophisticated and dressy co*cktail dress is also appropriate, however if the bride is traditional we recommend a floor length dress. A full length dress means that the ankle is not visible.

For couples who opt for formal weddings, black tie attire is often the most common choice. For a refined venue, it's most appropriate for guests to wear a tuxedo or suit, or floor length gown.

Typically formal dresses are floor length, though midi or knee-length options can work for certain occasions. Feel free to choose the neckline of your choice (but depending on the occasion, you may want to avoid ultra-plunging options).

White-Tie. This is the most formal wedding attire possible (think: White House state dinners and royal events). Simply put, women should wear a formal, floor-length evening gown—no exceptions—with jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch.

Tailored suits in lighter colors, a patterned tie, bow tie, or a pocket square, and even the incorporation of subtle floral patterns can add a touch of spring to traditional wedding attire. Layering Smartly: Given the variability of spring weather, layering becomes key.

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.

Choose a dress, skirt, or dress pants.

If the school dance calls for formal wear, opt for a dress, formal skirt and top, or dress pants and nice blouse. Choose a full-length gown for an extra-formal look, or a knee-length dress or skirt for something more semi-formal.