8 Wedding-Ready Looks for Wedding Season

Back in the day, I feel like there were very distinct “wedding seasons”. However, after the pandemic, we are seeing weddings scheduled year round. At the beginning of each season, I like to create a few seasonally appropriate wedding guest outfits. As we step into spring and summer, I’ve created eight wedding-ready looks for four of the most common dress codes. From elegant black-tie and formal ensembles to chic cocktail attire and chic casual wear, I’m here to help you navigate the dress code maze! Wedding bells are ringing, it’s time to celebrate the happy couples while looking and feeling fabulous! 

Pssst… friendly reminder, if you have to ask “Is this too close to white?” it probably is!

See something you love? Simply click the ‘+’ button to shop! Make sure to scroll to the “Shop the Post” section at the bottom of the blog to shop for more wedding-ready looks, plus a list of trusted retailers to shop!

Black-Tie

Black-tie attire is among the more formal of dress codes, and subsequently the one with the least amount of leeway. The term ‘Black-tie’ implies a time for men to adorn their black tuxedo, and for women to don a formal, floor-length gown. People frequently ask if women must wear black to a black tie wedding and the answer is NO! Unless a color code is stated on the invitation, opt for any color of the season.

Formal or Black-Tie Optional

Formal and Black-Tie optional are relatively similar for women, both of which are becoming increasingly popular wedding dress codes. As the wording indicates, these are slightly less formal than black-tie weddings and allow a bit more range. For men, a tuxedo isn’t required, but is still an appropriate option. Women can opt for either a formal, floor-length gown, midi or knee-length cocktail dresses.

Cocktail

Cocktail has become another very common dress code. Although a bit more relaxed than formal or black-tie, this is still an occasion to dress up! Cocktail attire doesn’t require floor-length gowns or tuxedos. Women are given a bit more wiggle room on dress length, ranging from mini, midi, etc.

Casual

In my opinion this is possibly the most ambiguous dress code as ‘casual’ truly means something different to everyone! In my opinion, casual indicates either an outdoor or more intimate and laid-back event, which still calls for a dress! Leave the denim at home and instead lean towards a summer sundress or floral patterned mini dress! Think lighter fabrics, festive colors, and slightly less-formal! 

TRUSTED RETAILERS

Not seeing something you love? Explore the below retailers for fabulous dresses at different price points! If you aren’t looking to purchase something new, Rent the Runway is my go-to! 

Abercrombie & Fitch,Alice + Olivia, Anthropologie, Dillards, Farm Rio, Few More, Hello Molly, Hunter Bell, Mango, Mytheresa, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Petal & Pup, REISS, Saks Fifth Avenue, Saks OFF Fifth, SHEIKE, Shop Birdie