You've received another fat, calligraphied envelope in the mail. Undo the seal, shake off the glitter, remove that random sheet of tissue and glance at the details. OK, you've got the date, time, place, and... dress code? Black tie? White tie? California casual? Creative black tie? Festive? What does it all mean! Are these dress codes really so different? And, the big question: Does this mean you need to buy something new?
In descending order of formality, here are some common wedding dress codes. While these are the traditional rules for the listed dress codes, they may be interpreted differently by different couples. If you have questions about a wedding's dress code, consider calling the maid of honor or best man to ask for clarification. White Tie: White tie is the most formal dress code; white tie events traditionally must start after 6 p.m. For women, this means a formal, floor-length evening gown--no skirts above the ankle. In some cases, women are expected to wear gloves (typically white and elbow-length). White tie refers to a specific tuxedo for men. It includes:
Black Tie: Black tie guidelines are less rigid than those of white tie. The formality of black tie events is open to interpretation and will be informed by the time and season of the wedding and its venue. Women can wear their white tie gown to a black tie affair, but also have the option of very dressy cocktail dresses. Typically, dresses at knee length are appropriate. For men, a black tie tux consists of:
Creative Black Tie: Creative black tie events are open to some interpretation and are less formal than traditional black tie events. Men and women can wear everything listed in black tie, but colorful, creative accessories are encouraged.
Black Tie Optional: For black tie optional events, women have all the options of black tie, but can also wear a simpler little black dress or dressy separates. Men can wear a tux, but they can also opt for a dark suite with a white shirt and tie, dressy shoes and dark socks.
Semiformal: For women, the dressy evening gown goes out the window on this one, and added is the option of an afternoon dress and a dressy skirt and top combo. Little black dress and dressy separates are also acceptable. For men, this means a suit with dress shirt, tie, dressy shoes and dark socks.
Dressy Casual: For women this means a casual dress, a skirt with a dressy top, a dressy pantsuit, or even--depending on the venue--nice jeans, heels and a dressy top. For men, this is a sport coat or blazer with slacks and either a dress, button-down, or open-collar/polo shirt. Men can wear slacks or khakis.
Casual: Obviously the most flexible of the dress codes, you can get away with a lot on this one. But for weddings, women should stick to sundresses and skirts, khakis or nice jeans with nice tops. Men can wear khakis or nice jeans with a casual button-down or polo shirt. Some couples clarify casual dress further on the invitation--summery clothing and sandals are appropriate at "California casual" and "beach casual" weddings.