Best-Dressed Guest: Spring Edition
Wondering what to wear to a spring wedding? Here, we decode the most common dress codes and share seasonal tips for staying comfortable and stylish while celebrating during springtime.
Black Tie and Formal
While the former requires a tuxedo for men, both black tie and formal – also known as black-tie optional – weddings involve elevated evening attire for women.
What to wear?
A floor-length gown in a sophisticated, solid-colored fabric such as silk, satin, chiffon, or velvet with heels.
Cocktail
The cocktail dress code strikes a balance between formal and casual, providing more freedom for festive styling while still keeping things sophisticated.
What to wear?
A knee-length, tea, or midi dress in a seasonal color or print with heels or formal flats.
Semi-Formal
Sometimes referred to as “dressy casual,” this dress code is a popular pick for daytime weddings and involves attire that is simple and refined, but not nearly as fancy as a formal dress code.
What to wear?
A midi dress or sophisticated top and skirt in a seasonal color or print with heels or flats.
Casual
Typically reserved for outdoor and destination weddings, a casual dress code still involves dressing up, but is the most relaxed option.
What to wear?
A sundress or midi dress suited to the destination. If you’re at the beach, be sure to wear sandals or wedges for walking in the sand.
Tips for Springtime Styling
- Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as silk, satin, cotton, or linen, especially if attending an outdoor wedding.
- Spring weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast and come prepared with a cardigan or umbrella if cooler temperatures or rain are predicted.
- To stay in style for the season, choose springtime colors and prints such as pastels and florals. Following classic wedding etiquette, avoid wearing white or anything similar.
- Pay attention to when the wedding takes place. Daytime events tend to be more relaxed with lighter color palettes, while those in the evening are more refined and glamorous.
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in advertising with the distinction of summa cum laude and served as editor-in-chief of the university’s biannual magazine, The Vindagua. After graduation, Rachel joined CMC Media & Marketing Group as an editor. Today, she serves as managing editor and is responsible for leading the editorial team in the development and completion of content for 17 publications involving health & wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville™ – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. In addition to writing, editing, and coordinating copy, Rachel oversees networking and reputation management for the company’s publications. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.
