Black tie
Floor-length is the safe answer: a maxi in satin or with subtle shine reads perfectly formal. Keep colors rich and avoid anything that could photograph white.
Wedding Guest Dress Finder
Dress code, season, venue — three answers and you have a clear brief for exactly what to wear (and what to skip).
Answer all three to get your outfit brief.
Wedding dress codes, decoded
Cocktail
Knee-to-midi is the sweet spot — polished, party-ready, easy to dance in. A structured midi with a statement neckline nails it.
Semi-formal
The most flexible code: midi or maxi both work. Florals, wrap styles and soft satin all read celebratory without upstaging.
Casual / beach
Relaxed fabrics, easy silhouettes: a flowy maxi or breezy midi with sandals is exactly right. Prioritise breathable fabrics if the ceremony is outdoors.
Wedding guest FAQs
What should a wedding guest never wear?+
White, ivory or anything that could photograph as bridal is the one hard rule. Beyond that, avoid upstaging the dress code — no ballgown at a beach wedding, no sundress at black tie.
What does black-tie mean for a female guest?+
A floor-length dress is the classic answer; an elevated midi in a rich fabric is acceptable at most modern black-tie weddings. Satin, subtle shine and jewel tones all read appropriately formal.
Can I wear black to a wedding?+
Yes — modern etiquette is fine with black for guests, especially for evening and formal weddings. Soften it with color in your accessories if the wedding is daytime or outdoors.
What is the difference between cocktail and semi-formal?+
They overlap heavily. Cocktail leans slightly dressier — knee-to-midi with structure and shine — while semi-formal allows more relaxed fabrics and prints. A polished midi dress satisfies both.
When should I order my dress?+
Aim to have it in hand two to three weeks before the wedding — enough time to check the fit, arrange any swap and plan accessories without stress.