Wedding season It's coming around again. Have you had a wedding invitation land on your doormat yet? There's a good chance that somewhere on that invitation, there's a dress code. Cocktail, summer chic, black tie... what does it mean again? And perhaps more importantly: how do you put together an outfit without immediately buying something new? We've delved into the most common dress codes for a wedding and show you what to look out for when styling and how to find them easily secondhand.
Wedding dress codes
It might all sound a bit like a shot in the dark, but there are definitely differences between wedding dress codes. And you'll want to know them, at least a little. There's nothing quite as awkward as arriving at the reception and feeling like you've just broken the outfit rules and are being met with questioning glances. Better safe than sorry, don't you? Luckily, you really don't have to go straight to the shops to buy something new for your next wedding party. With what you already have in your wardrobe or with a bit of searching on Vinted, Marktplaats, or at a charity shop, you can often get quite far. We'll help you on your way: we'll go through the most common dress codes on wedding invitations, explain what's usually expected of you (and what you'd best avoid), and give tips on how to find such an outfit second-hand. Here they come!
Cocktail attire
The dress code cocktail is perhaps the one you see most often on wedding invitations. In short, this means: festive, neat, but not overly chic (like black tie, we'll come to that in a minute). Think a dress to around the knee or a midi dress, possibly paired with heels or neat sandals. A skirt with a pretty blouse or an elegant jumpsuit will do just as well. For men, cocktail usually means a suit or chinos with a jacket and shirt, possibly without a tie. What is usually not meant: a super-casual outfit such as trainers, jeans or a beach dress. The nice thing about ‘cocktail’ is that this is exactly the kind of clothing you often come across second-hand. For example, search on platforms like Vinted or Marktplaats for terms like ‘cocktail dress’, ‘midi dress party’, ‘satin dress’, ‘jumpsuit’ or ‘party dress’. Chances are you will find something that has only been worn once or twice. Already have a simple dress in your closet? With a blazer, statement earrings or a pair of nice heels, you can turn it into no-time cocktail-worthy. That way you really don't have to buy a completely new outfit!
Smart casual
Tenue de ville (city attire) is another dress code you often encounter on an invitation. It sounds chic, but it actually just means: smartly dressed. Not as formal as a gala or black tie, but well-groomed nonetheless. The difference with cocktail attire? Cocktail is often a bit more festive and chic, while tenue de ville can be a bit more understated and everyday. Think of a midi dress, a skirt with a blouse, smart trousers with a top, or a jumpsuit, the latter is seen more and more at weddings these days. Dresses are usually around or just over the knee. If the wedding is a bit less formal, a dress or skirt that is slightly shorter can also be perfectly fine, but ultra-short is usually not appreciated. Bare shoulders are often not intended with this dress code either. If you opt for a blazer, it really should be part of the outfit and worn during the formal moments.
A smart pair of trousers with a blouse can also fit well within this dress code. In terms of colours, you'll often be safe with soft shades, pastels, or subtle prints. Striking jewellery and heavy make-up usually don't suit this style as well. The same applies to shoes: heels or elegant sandals work well, but flat or chunky shoes can quickly look a bit too casual. For men, ‘tenue de ville’ usually means a smart suit or chinos with a shirt and possibly a blazer. There's a good chance you might already have something like this in your wardrobe. It's also a great dress code for browsing second-hand items, as this type of clothing is easy to find online. For example, search for ‘midi dress’, ‘blazer set’, ‘silk blouse’, ‘satin skirt’, or 'wide-leg trousers'. Alternatively, charity shops are often a good place to look too. The advantage: if you do decide to buy something, you'll often find an item that you can also wear to work or parties later on.
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Summer chic dress code
If the wedding is in summer or at an outdoor venue, the dress code is often summer chic or Garden party on the invitation. The difference with, for example, cocktail or tenue de ville? This dress code is clearly tailored for warm weather and an informal setting, such as a garden, beach pavilion, or vineyard. So, it can be a bit more light-hearted and playful. Think dresses with floral prints, linen sets, soft and bright colours, flowing fabrics, and accessories. Where cocktail often feels a bit more chic and ‘evening-like’, summer chic is all about light materials and a relaxed appearance. A maxi dress, linen trousers with a blouse, or a flowy midi dress would be suitable. For men, a linen suit, chinos with a light shirt, or a light blazer would work well. Second-hand, you can search using terms like ‘linen dress’, ‘floral dress’, ‘summer midi dress’, ‘linen set’, or ‘maxi dress’. Just remember that it is still a wedding. Flip-flops, beach dresses, or sporty outfits are generally not appropriate. Espadrilles, sandals, or smart (wedge) heels are a better fit.
Casual chic
Casual chic is perhaps the most confusing dress code. The word ‘casual’ suggests that anything goes, but that's not entirely the case. The intention is a smart, relaxed outfit. Think of it as the best version of your everyday self. look. The difference with, say, tenue de ville or summer chic? Here it can all be more relaxed and less ‘dressed up’. Think of a nice dress, a skirt and blouse or trousers with an elegant top. Whereas cocktail or summer chic often means something more festive or airy, casual chic is all about a neat, comfortable outfit. So think of a nice blouse with trousers or a simple dress with good accessories. For men, this could be, for example, neat trousers or chinos with a shirt, possibly with a light jacket. In terms of colours too, this dress code tends to be a little calmer: think neutral tones such as beige, black, navy or soft pastels. Sometimes you will also see outfits in one colour. Unlike other dress codes, there are fewer fixed rules here regarding the length of a skirt or dress. Because casual chic can be more relaxed, you can also get away with neat trainers or other sporty shoes, as long as the rest of your outfit looks neat.
For second-hand outfits, you could search for things like ‘satin skirt’, ‘silk blouse’, ‘wide-leg trousers’ or ‘party blouse’. Combine a simple base with something eye-catching, such as jewellery, a nice bag, or a colourful blazer. This will instantly make your outfit look more festive.
Black tie
If you see 'black tie' on an invitation, you know it's going to be a bit more formal. This is the chicest dress code of the lot. While cocktail or 'tenue de ville' are still quite flexible, black tie really calls for an evening look. Think of a long dress or an elegant maxi dress made from luxurious fabrics like satin, silk or chiffon. Accessories can also be a bit more elegant here, such as a clutch and striking jewellery. For men, black tie usually means a tuxedo with a bow tie and smart patent shoes. If there is no dinner or evening programme, a very smart cocktail dress with tights can sometimes still be acceptable. The styling usually remains quite classic and elegant: think of natural makeup and subtle jewellery. Large bags are usually left at home with this dress code. A small clutch for your lipstick and phone, for example, is common.
You can do very well buying second-hand, as these types of dresses are often only worn once. For example, search for ‘ball gown’, ‘long evening dress’, ‘satin maxi dress’ or ‘long party dress’. There's a good chance you'll find a beautiful dress for a fraction of the new price. And because it's such a specific outfit, buying second-hand makes even more sense here.
An inspirational example of a black-tie dress code for a wedding.
A summary of sustainable dress codes for a wedding
- Cocktail: festive and smart. Think a midi dress, elegant jumpsuit, or skirt with a blouse.
- Smart casual: neatly dressed, but a bit more relaxed than cocktail attire. Think a dress, skirt with blouse, jumpsuit, or trousers with a top. An outfit you could also wear to work or a dinner.
- Summer chic: festive, yet light and summery. Think floral prints, linen sets, soft and bright colours, and flowing dresses. Often for outdoor weddings.
- Casual chic: the most relaxed version. Tidy, but comfortable. For example, a nice blouse with trousers or a simple dress with good accessories. A nice trainer is acceptable!
- Black tie: the chicest dress code. Think a long dress or an elegant maxi dress made from luxurious fabrics such as satin or silk.
Your sustainable dress code for your next wedding
As you can see, many wedding dress codes are similar. The difference lies mainly in how formal it becomes and the setting of the wedding. And we haven't even covered all the dress codes yet. For example, you sometimes see "bohemian chic" or "boho" on an invitation. This often includes flowing dresses, natural fabrics, floral prints, and a somewhat nonchalant look. At the other end of the spectrum is white tie, the most formal dress code there is. Think long evening gowns and a true gala feel. Fortunately, this is rarely seen at weddings. If you're unsure about the dress code for a wedding, it's quite simple: it's better to be slightly overdressed than too casual. And first, have a good look in your own wardrobe. There's a good chance that with a few clever combinations, you'll already have exactly what you need for that next wedding.
Also handy for weddings: The clothing library! We've drawn up a list of where you can find them!
Sources: theperfectwedding.nl. Photo credits: Jonathan Borba, Pexels (main image), other: Luca Luperto, Pexels (couple), Faro, Pexels (accessories).
