Every wedding is as unique and special as the couple you’re celebrating. However, with all the dress codes to decipher it can cause stress & confusion during wedding season. No worries, we’ve put together our favorite styles for every level of dress. So no matter where or when the wedding, we’ve got you covered in sun safe style.
White-Tie & Black-Tie
White Tie is the top tier of formal weddings. If you see this on an invitation it means floor length evening gowns for ladies & full tuxes with tails and white ties for men. No exceptions here!
Black Tie, the next most formal dress code, is slightly more relaxed. Men can come in tuxes, no tails required, with black ties & cummerbunds or vests. Women should opt for floor length evening gowns, that cover the ankles, or for less formal events sophisticated cocktail dresses will also do nicely. For an elegant evening affair at either level, we recommend the Black Metallic Embroidered Maxi Dress, just make sure to double check if the couple is more traditional, you may want to opt for a lighter color!
Formal or Black-Tie Optional
For men, a tuxedo isn't required, but the event could still be formal enough for one to be appropriate. And for women a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress or a dressy pantsuit are all appropriate. There isn’t a huge difference between black tie and formal/black tie optional, except that short cocktail style dresses are more acceptable. Add a little sparkle to an evening affair with our Black Metallic Off The Shoulder Dress.
Cocktail
Cocktail is a balance between, effortlessly elegant, this dress features a classic gingham print and white embroidery along the collar. P elegance & comfort. Instead of a floor-length dress, women should opt for an above the ankle, tea-length, knee-length, or midi dress. The vibrant yet elegant The Nantucket Embroidered Tunic Dress is great to pair with a neutral clutch & heels. However, men are required to wear a suit & tie, regardless of the wedding's venue.
Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual
No floor length gowns are needed for this dress level. Taking the time of the wedding into account you can wear darker, more formal colors in the evening wedding & lighter colors and fabrics for a daytime event. Semi-formal means you can generally be more comfortable with your attire, just make sure you don’t dress too casually. Add a pair of heels or flats to the sleek silhouette of our Jetties Beach Sleeveless Shift Dress for a look that easy to dress up or down.
Festive
A newer & very popular style, Festive means opting for cocktail dress level but with bright bold colors for both men & women. The Coral Geo Off The Shoulder Dress is our best-selling dress and is sure to receive lots of compliments. With its bright coral print, peplum sleeves and tassel trim, this dress is ready to party!
Casual
This dress code usually means an outdoor or beach wedding. Ladies can go for a summer sundress & men should go for collar shirts with khaki or dress pants. Our Jetties Beach Sleeveless Ruffle Dress is fun, flouncy & will keep you cool for this outdoor occasion.
Tropical or Destination
When the big day calls for sunshine be ready with stylish sun protection. Men should opt for short-sleeve button downs made of light weight fabrics. For the ladies sundresses, or classy rompers & sandals are appropriate. Pack our Cayman Wrap Romper for a flattering fit that does double duty as dress in the front & shorts in the back! An elegant sun hat may also be advisable to protect you from tropical sun & heat. Plus, all our styles are wrinkle-resistant for easy travel.
Concept Style/Themed
Usually white dresses are an absolute no-go for weddings, but for an all white party they’re a must! Try our fun & flirty White Sleeveless Ruffle Dress for such occasions. Some couples may have any particular color or theme in mind for their wedding. Popular styles include all white parties, Great Gatsby or other pop-culture references.
Come As You Are
A shirt & shoes might still be a requirement, but this dress code is the most relaxed. While jeans & a t-shirt is still not advisable, wearing what you feel confident and comfortable in is a must. Our classic Coastal Cottage Cabana Shift Dress is comfortable & functional with its boat neck style neckline & pocket.
We hope this guide helps you stay sun safe during wedding season! Have a bride to be that needs sun safe style picks? Check out our Dresses for the Bride: Style Guide. No matter where your springtime adventures take you we’ve got you covered with fashionable sun protection. Our UPF 50+ styles are made to keep you sun safe & stylish all year long. With wrinkle-free fabrics & flattering fits, these pieces were made with travel in mind. Feeling inspired? Explore more versatile sun safe dresses for any occasion. Brighten your Spring wardrobe with our new arrivals.
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