Wedding season is upon us, and with it comes the age-old question: what to wear? If you’re attending a formal wedding reception, you’ll want to dress to impress. But what exactly does that mean? In this article, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of dressing for a formal wedding reception.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand what “formal” means in the context of a wedding. Formal attire is typically reserved for evening events, and is more dressy than semi-formal or cocktail attire. For men, this means a tuxedo or dark suit and tie. For women, it means a long gown or dressy cocktail dress.
When choosing your outfit, keep in mind the time of day and location of the wedding. If the reception is being held outdoors, for example, you may want to opt for lighter fabrics and colors. If it’s an evening event, you’ll want to choose darker, more formal colors like black, navy, or deep red.
What to Wear: Women
For women, the options for formal wedding attire are endless. A long gown is always a safe choice, but you can also opt for a dressy cocktail dress or even a dressy pantsuit. When choosing your outfit, keep in mind the formality of the event, as well as your own personal style.
If you’re wearing a long gown, choose a style that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident. A-line and ballgown styles are universally flattering, while mermaid and trumpet styles are more daring. When it comes to color, jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and ruby are always a hit, as are classic neutrals like black, navy, and champagne.
If you’re opting for a dressy cocktail dress, choose a style that’s both elegant and comfortable. A-line and fit-and-flare styles are always a safe choice, while bodycon and sheath styles are more daring. When it comes to color, jewel tones and metallics are always a hit, as are classic neutrals like black, navy, and silver.
Finally, if you’re wearing a dressy pantsuit, choose a style that’s both sophisticated and comfortable. A tailored blazer and pants in a luxe fabric like velvet or silk can be just as dressy as a gown or cocktail dress. When it comes to color, jewel tones and metallics are always a hit, as are classic neutrals like black, navy, and white.
What to Wear: Men
For men, the options for formal wedding attire are more limited. A tuxedo is always a safe choice, but you can also opt for a dark suit and tie. When choosing your outfit, keep in mind the formality of the event, as well as your own personal style.
If you’re wearing a tuxedo, choose a style that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident. A classic black tuxedo with a white shirt and black bow tie is always a hit, but you can also opt for a colored or patterned jacket for a more daring look. When it comes to accessories, keep it simple with a black leather belt and black dress shoes.
If you’re opting for a dark suit and tie, choose a style that’s both elegant and comfortable. A classic black or navy suit is always a safe choice, but you can also opt for a colored or patterned suit for a more daring look. When it comes to accessories, keep it simple with a black leather belt and black dress shoes.
Conclusion
Dressing for a formal wedding reception can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can look and feel your best. Remember to choose an outfit that’s both elegant and comfortable, and keep in mind the formality of the event. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to be the best-dressed guest at the reception!