Our Guide To Wedding Guest Style

• The wedding dress code and the wedding venue can help to determine what outfit to wear as a wedding guest. 

• Wedding guests should avoid wearing white, unless requested, as this colour is reserved for the bride. 

• For garden weddings, opt for lightweight, airy fabrics in floral prints and pastel colours. 

• For black tie weddings, opt for full length gowns and statement accessories. 

Are you invited to a wedding and need inspiration for your wedding guest outfit? If you have ever received a wedding invitation that left you confused about the wedding dress code, worry no more. With numerous wedding dress codes, there are many different dress or jumpsuit styles that align with each dress code. It is also important to consider the wedding venue and the season to help narrow your search for the quintessential wedding guest look.

As dress codes can vary significantly depending on the kind of wedding you're attending - a white tie or black tie affair is likely for church or destination weddings, however, lounge suit, cocktail and even smart casual could appear if the event is more laid-back, think a beach wedding or garden wedding. Be mindful of the dress code if you're attending a wedding in a religious facility. Be sure that your shoulders are covered up and remove any hats. When it comes to colour, some popular options include black, red and navy. However, wearing white to a wedding is still a bit of a no go zone. Continue reading to de-code wedding dress codes for wedding guests.

Black Tie Wedding

Black-tie attire is a dress code reserved for formal evening events. Guests commonly choose floor-length gowns and suits or tuxedos when attending a black-tie event. Although evening dresses or gowns are standard for black tie weddings, you can get away with a formal long cocktail dress or even an elegant suit. You can wear a gown in any silhouette you like. Whichever style you choose, make sure you're able to walk in it. When you wear a floor-length dress, the goal is to have the hem graze the ground. If the dress is longer, you'll risk stepping on the fabric and tripping. As for footwear, heels are preferable and to complete the formal black-tie look accessories with statement earrings.

Garden Wedding

For a garden wedding, a simple sundress, elegant maxi dress, or high-quality jumpsuit will be appropriate. While dressy sandals are acceptable, level up your look with a pair of metallic ballet flats. Lighter colours and/or floral prints will elevate your semi-formal look. Stick to light and airy fabrics such as linen, organza, silk, chiffon, and cotton. These fabrics will help keep you cool and will look wonderful against the spring garden backdrop. Accessorising with a chiffon wrap can be a good idea for sun protection as well as keeping you warm as the sun sets.

Cocktail Wedding

Though not as formal as black-tie optional or formal, cocktail attire is a popular dress code choice. It's a balance between elegant and comfortable, and typically is more formal than a day wedding but more casual than a night celebration. Instead of a floor-length dress, opt for cocktail dresses at tea, knee, or midi lengths. The cocktail dress code for gentlemen includes a suit and tie and for the ladies, a knee length embroidered or hand beaded dress fits perfectly with a cocktail wedding dress code.

Casual Wedding

You have been invited to an intimate micro wedding in a beautiful church or botanic garden. A micro wedding calls for a dressy casual attire for wedding guests. Therefore a cocktail dress is a good place to start looking for your wedding guest dress. Floral print dresses are a great option for weddings as they offer a contrast against rustic church backdrops. If you would prefer not to wear a dress, a special taffeta skirt and top, chiffon jumpsuit, or dressy combination of pants and top is also appropriate and aligns with the dress code.

For more fashion tips or information on our dresses and products, contact us at customerservice@intermoda.com.au to be in touch with our customer service team, or shop our new arrivals now!

Updated on 29/05/2026