What should I wear to a wedding? Attire as we see it…

To wear, or not to wear… Navigating dress code is never fun when there are only two to three words (if any) to describe the appropriate attire. Cocktail attire, black tie optional, black tie, or no direction whatsoever! What do these even mean? SSM answers:

Black tie: Tux, tux wherever you are! Break it out, shake it out and take it to the dry cleaner (especially if it hasn’t been worn in sometime). This is as formal as it gets so all you men out there, get your penguin suits ready and shine those patent dancing shoes! For you ladies, this means gowns. If you want to be traditional, go with floor length; if you are feeling edgier, you can go with a dolled-up tea length (just below the knee). But, whatever you do, definitely go glitz and glam!

Black tie optional: Here you have a little room to play. For men, you need not rush to rent a tux although, if you want to, it wouldn’t be such a bad thing. If you decide to ditch the tux for a formal suit, no prob – just make sure it is black, navy or dark grey and as formal as they come. Tie REQUIRED. For ladies, feel free to glam it up in a black tie gown. If floor length doesn’t suit your mood, feel free to put on a shorter, cocktail dress. Just keep in mind it should still be fancy since there will be people there dressed for black tie.

Cocktail attire: This can be a little tricky depending on the location. We recommend a dark suit for the gents. Ties are not always necessary; HOWEVER, if you nix the necktie you best be wearing a snazzy A-game button-down underneath. If you are headed to a beach destination wedding and cocktail attire is the dress code, you can break out your lightly colored linen suit for an evening affair. For the ladies, you have some leeway on the length; however, dress as you would for a formal cocktail party. Keep it chic and classy and save the sundresses and Havaianas for the beach.

This is all fine and dandy when the invitation details tips for the attire. When there is not an inkling of direction, SSM suggests the following:

Morning/Afternoon Wedding: Weddings that occur early in the day are likely to be less formal than an evening affair (unless stated otherwise). For men, wear a suit. If the weather is warm, you can opt for the lighter colors; if not, stick with one on the dark side. A tie is safe, so wear one. If you get there and you feel over dressed, you can always throw it in your pocket. Ladies, an elegant dress is appropriate and tea length is ideal. Remember, this is a wedding, so no mini dresses. Also, it’s daytime, so you will likely want to mix some color into your selection. Avoid showing up, especially in summer months, looking like Elvira. If you must wear black, then soften your look with a colored gems and matching bag.

Evening Wedding: This can be very similar to the cocktail attire suggestions; however, men should wear a tie.

The bottom line is this, if you are unsure it doesn’t hurt to overdress a tad. There is nothing worse than being undressed. So keep it chic and stylish and you will always fit right in.