Wedding Guest Dress Code: What to Wear for Every Type of Wedding

Wedding invitations are rolling in—and if you’re anything like most of my clients, your first thought probably isn’t about the happy couple. It’s more like: What on earth am I going to wear?

Whether you're invited to a sunny beach ceremony, a countryside barn bash, or a black-tie city affair, decoding the wedding guest dress code can feel like navigating a sartorial minefield. But don’t worry—I’ve got you.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common dress codes for UK weddings and help you figure out what to wear to a wedding this spring/summer. You'll walk into any celebration looking and feeling confident—no panic required.

UNDERSTANDING WEDDING GUEST DRESS CODES

Let’s start with the basics. Most wedding invitations include a dress code, but if you're scratching your head wondering what “smart casual” actually means in real life, you’re not alone.

Here’s a quick breakdown of common UK wedding guest dress codes—and what they actually mean:

🎩 Formal or Black Tie

Think timeless glamour, elevated fabrics, and graceful silhouettes. Black tie weddings (especially in the UK) usually start later in the day and take place in elegant venues like grand hotels, historic estates, or formal ballrooms. They’re your chance to really dress up.

What to Wear:

• A floor-length gown, a sleek column dress, or an elegant midi in a luxurious fabric like satin, silk, or crepe.

• For spring/summer, opt for bold jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, amethyst) or deep florals on dark backgrounds for an evening feel.

• Add refined accessories: metallic heels, a crystal clutch, and structured earrings.

Stylist Insight: If you prefer something more modern, a well-tailored jumpsuit in black or navy with statement jewellery can be incredibly chic—and comfortable!

Avoid: Day dresses, jersey fabrics, anything too short or overly casual. It’s better to be slightly overdressed than look like you’re headed to brunch.

👗 Cocktail or Semi-Formal

This is one of the most common dress codes and offers plenty of style flexibility. Cocktail attire is all about dressing elegantly but with room for personality. These weddings often take place in the afternoon or early evening and can be held in diverse venues—from city rooftops to countryside manors.

What to Wear:

• Midi or knee-length dresses, sophisticated separates (think silk blouse + A-line skirt), or a tailored jumpsuit.

• Embrace colour! Spring/summer weddings are perfect for soft pastels, fresh florals, and vibrant hues.

• Pair your look with mid-heel sandals or closed-toe block heels, and polish it off with a small clutch or structured handbag.

Stylist Insight: Textures like lace, pleats, or organza can elevate a simple silhouette and help your look stand out.

Avoid: Anything too tight or too short—think less "night out," more "celebration with elegance."

🌸 Smart Casual

This one can feel vague—but don’t let it throw you off. Smart casual invites you to look put-together and polished without feeling too formal. You’ll often see this dress code for daytime weddings, registry ceremonies, or garden receptions.

What to Wear:

• A tea-length dress or midi skirt with a beautiful blouse.

• Tailored trousers with a statement top or a structured jumpsuit in a fresh print.

• Light layering pieces like a cropped blazer or a fine-knit cardigan can bring your look together and keep you prepared for unpredictable weather.

Stylist Insight: If you’re attending more than one wedding this season, investing in a versatile smart casual outfit is a game changer—you’ll easily restyle it for multiple events.

Avoid: Casual summer dresses that feel too relaxed, denim of any kind, and flat sandals that are more beach than bridal.

👒 Garden Party / Outdoor Wedding

Typically set in charming rural venues, a marquee, or even a private garden, these weddings feel relaxed, romantic, and close to nature. Your outfit should reflect that mood—effortless, soft, and functional.

What to Wear:

• A flowy midi or wrap dress in a soft floral or nature-inspired print.

• Fabrics like cotton voile, linen blends, or silk are ideal—they breathe beautifully and photograph well outdoors.

• Choose footwear wisely: espadrilles, wedges, or block heels will stop you sinking into grass.

Stylist Insight: If the invite suggests a hat or fascinator, take the opportunity! It’s a beautiful nod to tradition, and a great conversation starter.

Avoid: Stilettos or heavy fabrics that can feel out of place in a relaxed outdoor setting.

🏖️ Beach Wedding

Whether in the UK or abroad, beach weddings call for simplicity, movement, and grace. These are usually more casual affairs, and your outfit should flow with the breeze and match the relaxed energy of the day.

What to Wear:

• A maxi or midi dress in a breathable fabric like linen, chiffon, or cotton. Soft prints or oceanic tones always look right.

• Opt for flat or low-heeled sandals—something you can walk across sand or pebbles in comfortably.

• Bring a shawl or light wrap for post-sunset breezes.

Stylist Insight: Keep your makeup minimal and glowing, and your hair soft or styled up—humidity isn’t your friend here.

Avoid: Anything too structured, bodycon shapes, or high heels that could turn navigating the setting into a hazard.

CAN YOU WEAR WHITE TO A WEDDING?

Let’s clear this up once and for all: unless the invitation explicitly says “all guests wear white” (yes, it happens), just don’t. Even off-white, ivory, or anything that could vaguely resemble a bridal dress is a no-go. It’s not about following old-fashioned rules—it’s about respect. The spotlight belongs to the couple, especially the bride, and fashion shouldn’t get in the way of that.

Now, that doesn’t mean you can’t wear light colours. A soft blush, pale blue, or pastel yellow can look stunning, especially in spring/summer. If you’re ever unsure, think of this rule of thumb: if the bride wore this, would people be annoyed? If the answer is yes—even a maybe—choose something else.

HOW TO DRESS WITH CONFIDENCE - WHATEVER THE DRESS CODE

Now that we've broken down the dress codes and their real-life translations, let's talk about something even more important: how you feel in your outfit. Because style isn't just about following rules—it's about owning your look and walking into that venue feeling like your best self.

Here’s what I always tell my personal styling clients: Dress for the you you want to show up as. Whether you're attending as a close friend, a plus one, or part of the extended family, your outfit tells a story. Are you polished and elegant? Playful and bold? Understated but effortlessly chic? Knowing how you want to feel helps narrow your options—and makes getting dressed less stressful.

COMMON STYLE DILEMMAS AND HOW TO SOLVE THEM

1. “I want to wear something I’ll wear again.”

Of course you do! We’re done with one-hit-wonders. Look for timeless cuts (wrap dresses, tailored jumpsuits, midi lengths), and let accessories change the vibe. You can easily style the same dress differently with a strappy heel and clutch for the wedding, and then trainers and a denim jacket for brunch later on.

Stylist Tip: Rent if you love variety. Borrow if you're stuck. Or invest wisely if you see yourself reaching for it again.

2. “I’m worried about being underdressed or overdressed.”

If you're torn between two looks, always err on the side of being slightly more polished. That doesn’t mean stiff or overly formal—it just means considered. A beautifully tailored outfit, great shoes, and a confident posture can never be too much.

Also, you can ask the host, and they will point you in the right direction.

Stylist Tip: It’s easier to tone something down with a casual hairdo or low-key makeup than it is to fix an outfit that feels too casual once you're at the venue.

3. “I don’t want to look like everyone else.”

Totally fair. Weddings can often feel like a sea of florals. If you want to stand out (in a good way), try colour blocking, sculptural accessories, or a monochrome look. Or lean into texture: silk, linen, lace, or embroidery can elevate even the simplest shape.

Stylist Tip: Fit matters more than trend. Something that fits you—your body and your personality—will always be more striking than the most fashionable dress of the season.

THE SECRET WEAPON - PREPARATION

The best outfits rarely happen the morning of. If you have multiple weddings this season, take a moment to plan your looks in advance. That includes shoes you can actually walk in, layers for chilly evenings, and a bag that doesn’t clash with everything.

I often help clients build a “wedding season capsule wardrobe” that mixes and matches across multiple events—maximising options without buying 10 new dresses. It’s smart, sustainable, and helps you feel ready for anything.

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Choosing what to wear to a wedding in the UK doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little guidance, the right mindset, and a few trusted pieces in your wardrobe, you can show up to any celebration feeling confident, stylish, and totally you.

And if you're still not sure what works for your body, your colours, or your lifestyle? That’s where I come in. Personal styling isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about helping you shine through the clothes you wear.

So whether you’re heading to a windswept coastal ceremony, a formal London soirée, or a laid-back garden celebration, you’ve got this.

And if you need a second opinion or want to build your perfect wedding guest look from scratch—you know where to find me.