White tie: Extravagant ball gowns and tuxedos Black tie: Floor-length gowns and suits and ties Black tie optional: Mid-length dresses and suits Outdoor formal: Mini or wrap dresses and suits Cocktail: A cocktail dress is usually a must. You can also wear midi dresses and suits. Usually, a silk or cotton, dark or nude color dress is the best option Semi-formal: Flowy dresses or skirt and dress pants with a button-down shirt If you didn’t receive a formal invitation for the dinner but were invited via text or word of mouth, ask who invited you what the dress code is if they didn’t specify.
Pay attention to the overall design of the venue. Is it in a hotel with marble walls or at a local Italian restaurant? Consider the location. Will you be on a beach in Mexico or in your friend’s backyard for a barbecue? Look the venue up on social media. How do they advertise themselves? Are there staff members in suits and ties?
A blazer or sport coat adds a layer of warmth over a blouse, a-line dress, or button-down shirt. A sweater or cardigan pairs well with a collared shirt and dress pants or a dress when temperatures drop at night. Tights help your legs stay warm under a dress or skirt in the fall and winter. Long sleeve dress shirts and velvet dresses keep you comfortable in the cold without sacrificing style.
If the wedding has a color palette, wear those colors to the wedding only, not to the rehearsal dinner, to match the theme on the day of the big event.
Ladies, avoid cream and off-whites and try a dress or blouse that matches your eyes instead. Guys, wearing a white button-down is okay, but make sure to pair it with a black or gray blazer or sport coat.
Generally, rehearsal dinners have a “no jeans allowed” rule, but there are always exceptions! If the dinner is going to be more casual, consider wearing a pair of dark jeans with a collared shirt or blouse. [6] X Research source
Reach out to the couple or a bridal party member to see if Halloween-like costumes are expected at the dinner or more subtle-themed formal attire. For instance, you could dress up in an astronaut suit for a space-themed dinner or go with a dress or tie covered in stars.
Clutches, belts, bracelets, and cufflinks are other great accessories—who says you can’t wear more than one?
