What to Wear to a Wedding: A Complete Style Guide from a Portland Wedding Photographer
A beautiful invitation just arrived in your mailbox—your favorite couple is finally tying the knot, and you couldn’t be more excited to celebrate with them! But then comes the big question: what to wear to a wedding? Figuring out the perfect outfit can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling dress codes, venues, and seasons.
As a Portland wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all—stunning ensembles that fit the vibe perfectly and a few that missed the mark. That’s why I’ve teamed up with Sheena Paris, a professional stylist and the founder of Onyx Styling Co. based in Portland, Oregon. Sheena is here to share her expert insights on what to wear to a wedding as a guest, covering fashion do’s and don’ts to help you feel confident and stylish at your next celebration.
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What to Wear When You’re Attending a Seasonal Wedding
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, the season plays a huge role in guiding your outfit choice. From vibrant summer celebrations to cozy winter ceremonies, dressing appropriately for the time of year ensures you’ll feel both stylish and comfortable. Here’s a breakdown of seasonal wedding attire to help you nail your look, no matter when the big day takes place.
What to Wear to a Summer Wedding
Summer weddings are the perfect opportunity to embrace light, breathable fabrics and bold, cheerful colors. Think flowy dresses in florals, prints, and brighter hues like coral, turquoise, or sunny yellow. Fabrics such as cotton, linen, chiffon, and lace will help keep you cool, even during outdoor ceremonies.
Opt for strapless styles, halter necklines, or thin straps to stay comfortable in the heat. If the wedding is beachside or particularly casual, consider a chic maxi dress with sandals. Just don’t forget sun protection—a stylish wide-brimmed hat or oversized sunglasses can elevate your look while keeping you shaded.
What to Wear to a Fall Wedding
Fall weddings offer a chance to play with rich colors, cozy fabrics, and stylish layers. Consider an elevated jumpsuitor a sophisticated midi dress, paired with layering pieces like a pashmina, cashmere shawl, or tailored blazer.
Embrace the season’s palette with hues like rusty orange, marigold, burgundy, olive green, or classic navy blue. Fabrics such as satin, crepe, or velvet accents add a touch of elegance without feeling too heavy. Don’t be afraid to add statement accessories in gold or bronze tones to complete your look.
What to Wear to a Winter Wedding
When deciding what to wear to a winter wedding, think luxurious fabrics and rich, deep tones. Velvet, long-sleeved silk dresses, and heavier materials like brocade or jacquard are perfect for winter’s chill.
Color-wise, consider deep jewel tones—emerald, sapphire, ruby, or classic black with metallic accents. Camel, dark gray, and even a bold plum can create a sophisticated look. For outerwear, choose a tailored wool coat, a chic faux fur wrap, or even a long-line blazer to keep warm without compromising style. Add sparkle with statement earrings or a bold clutch for a festive touch.
What to Wear to a Spring Wedding
Spring weddings call for fresh, airy looks that embrace the season’s blooming energy. Pastels like soft pinks, baby blues, buttery yellows, and lavender are timeless choices, while florals and playful prints reflect spring’s natural beauty.
For cooler spring days, consider a light outer layer such as a blazer, cropped jacket, or a tweed coat you can effortlessly drape over your shoulders. Flowy fabrics like chiffon, organza, or tulle add a romantic vibe, and a pair of strappy heels or elegant flats will keep your look fresh and polished.
What to Wear when the Invitation says:
Deciphering wedding dress codes can be tricky, especially when invitations use phrases that aren’t always straightforward. Whether you’re wondering what to wear to a formal wedding or trying to decode terms like cocktail attire or semi-formal, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a breakdown to help you dress appropriately for any wedding style.
What to Wear to a Black Tie Wedding
When the invitation specifies black tie, think elegance and sophistication. Traditionally, this means a floor-length gown in luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet. Deep, rich hues or classic neutrals (black, navy, emerald) work beautifully, but don’t shy away from jewel tones for a pop of color.
Pair your gown with equally refined accessories—a sleek clutch, elegant jewelry, and formal heels or dressy flats. For cooler seasons, a chic shawl or tailored wrap adds both warmth and glamour. This is the time to go all out with polished hair, bold makeup, and refined details. If you’re ever in doubt, lean towards more formal—it’s always better to be slightly overdressed at a black tie wedding.
What to Wear to a Formal Wedding
This dress code is slightly less strict than black tie but still leans towards sophisticated attire. A floor-length gown is always appropriate, but you can also opt for a midi-length dress or a modern tailored suit. A silk matching suit set in an elevated fabric can be both chic and unique.
Accessories should still feel refined—think statement earrings, sleek clutches, and polished shoes. If you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of being slightly more dressed up, as formal attire often overlaps with black tie expectations.
What to Wear to a Semi-Formal Wedding (Cocktail Attire)
If you’re asking, “What is cocktail attire for a wedding?” or “What does semi-formal mean for a wedding?”, the answer lies in striking a balance between dressy and relaxed. Cocktail attire calls for dresses that fall just above or below the knee, chic midi dresses, or tailored jumpsuits. Fabrics like satin, crepe, or chiffon work well.
When it comes to wedding cocktail attire, think polished yet playful—add bold accessories, fun heels, or a standout clutch. Men typically wear a suit without a tie or a dress shirt with tailored pants. The goal is to look sophisticated without being as formal as a black-tie event.
What to Wear to a Ranch Chic Wedding
For weddings with a ranch chic dress code, blend casual charm with elevated details. Think cotton and silk dresses, flowy fabrics, and stylish boots. A maxi dress with western-inspired accessories or a tailored jumpsuit paired with a statement belt can strike the perfect balance. Don’t be afraid to add a touch of rustic flair—like leather accents or turquoise jewelry—while keeping the look polished.
What to Wear to a Garden Wedding
A garden wedding calls for soft, romantic styles. Florals are an obvious choice, but you can also play with fun accessories like a wide-brimmed hat or bold statement earrings. Try a high-waisted flowy pant with a chic bodysuit, or a pleated accordion skirt for an effortlessly elegant look. Since you’ll likely be outdoors, opt for block heels, wedges, or stylish flats that can handle grass and uneven terrain.
What to Wear to a Tropical Wedding
When the vibe is tropical, it’s time to embrace bold colors, playful prints, and lightweight fabrics. Matching sets, flowy maxi dresses, and bright accessories are all great options. Consider fabrics like linen or cotton to stay cool. If the event is outdoors—say on a beach—choose footwear that can handle sand or grass, like flat sandals or espadrilles.
What to Wear to a Casual Wedding
Even if the dress code says casual, weddings still call for a polished look. Think linen dresses, chic jumpsuits, or relaxed yet stylish matching sets. Light fabrics and simple accessories work well. While you can dress down compared to formal weddings, avoid overly casual items like jeans, flip-flops, or basic T-shirts. Aim for an effortlessly put-together appearance.
What to Wear to a Destination Wedding
For a destination wedding, the key is to fit the vibe of the location. A wedding in Paris will have a different aesthetic than one in Jamaica. Research the destination’s climate and style—light, airy fabrics for tropical spots or sleek, chic attire for urban settings. Consider the cultural norms of the location, and don’t forget practical footwear if there’s lots of walking involved.
What to Wear to a Backyard Wedding
A backyard wedding often leans more casual, but that doesn’t mean you should skimp on style. Try a fun jumpsuit, breezy sundress, or even tailored trousers with a cute top. Accessorize to elevate the look—bold earrings, colorful shoes, or a statement belt can add flair. While it’s a relaxed setting, avoid overly casual pieces like jeans or gym sneakers to keep things wedding-appropriate.
What to Wear if You’re Attending a Daytime Wedding vs. an Evening Wedding
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, the time of day can greatly influence your outfit choice. Daytime wedding stand to be more relaxed and casual, while evening weddings often call for a more formal, sophisticated look.
For a daytime wedding, opt for lighter fabrics, softer colors, and shorter hemlines. Midi-length dresses, chic cocktail dresses, or even a modern tailored suit are great choices. Think of a fun, stylish suit—something more fashion-forward than your typical office attire. Prints, florals, and pastel shades work beautifully for daytime events, especially if they’re outdoors. When it comes to shoes, you can comfortably wear wedge sandals, stylish flats, or block heels, which are perfect for navigating grassy or uneven surfaces.
In contrast, an evening wedding often leans towards more formal attire. This is the time to embrace floor-length gowns, elegant fabrics like satin or velvet, and richer, darker colors such as navy, emerald, or burgundy. If you prefer a suit, choose a sleek, well-tailored style in a dark or jewel-toned shade. Footwear should also reflect the elevated vibe—opt for classic heels, strappy stilettos, or polished dress shoes to complete your look.
Ultimately, the goal is to match the energy of the event while feeling confident and comfortable.
What Guys Can Wear to a Wedding: Quick Tips for Gentlemen
When it comes to weddings, figuring out the right outfit isn’t just for the ladies. Here are some quick tips on what guys can wear to a wedding, no matter the dress code:
- Black Tie: Opt for a classic tuxedo with a black bow tie, crisp white dress shirt, and polished black dress shoes. Keep accessories minimal—cufflinks and a sleek watch work well.
- Formal: A dark-colored suit (navy, charcoal, or black) paired with a dress shirt and tie is perfect. Add leather dress shoes to keep the look sharp.
- Cocktail/Semi-Formal: A tailored suit without a tie is a stylish choice. Play with textures or subtle patterns, and add a pocket square for a polished touch.
- Casual: A blazer with dress pants or chinos and a button-down shirt works well. Loafers or clean, stylish dress shoes will complete the look. Skip the tie unless you want to dress it up a bit.
- Destination/Tropical: Lightweight linen suits, short-sleeve button-downs, and dress shorts (if appropriate) are great for warmer climates. Pair with loafers or dressy sandals.
- Backyard/Rustic: Consider smart-casual attire like tailored trousers with suspenders or a relaxed blazer. Skip the formal shoes in favor of desert boots or loafers.
Quick Style Tips:
- Always check the invitation for dress code cues.
- When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
- Make sure your outfit is well-fitted—tailoring makes a big difference.
- Polished shoes and neat grooming will elevate any look.
Final Thoughts: Feel Confident at Every Wedding
Choosing what to wear to a wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re attending a black tie wedding, a casual backyard celebration, or a tropical destination event, the key is to dress appropriately for the occasion while feeling confident and comfortable. With these tips—and the expert advice from Sheena Paris of Onyx Styling Co.—you’ll be ready to make a stylish impression at any wedding.
Final thoughts from Sheena
“When you’re choosing an outfit to attend a wedding, you should absolutely always ensure that you aren’t upstaging the wedding party or wearing something so loud and elaborate that you draw attention away from the event. It’s okay to wear something fabulous, but be respectful of the fact that this is somebody’s wedding day.” — Sheena Paris, Onyx Styling Co.
Sheena is a Personal Stylist out of Portland, Oregon who works with women both in person in the Portland metro or world-wide virtually. She specializes in helping women discover and dress for their next-level selves and elevating personal brands.
Headshot by Brian Whitt Photography
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out some of our other posts for more wedding inspiration:
- What Questions Should I Ask a Wedding Photographer
- A Rainy Day Black Butte Ranch Wedding
- Tips to Reduce Stress on Your Wedding Day From An Oregon Wedding Photographer
Planning your own wedding? As a Portland wedding photographer, I’d love to capture your special day. Contact me to learn more about my wedding photography services!
Updated: January 30th, 2025
