"How lovely, a wedding to go to [1]!" you think as you unwrap your latest invite. But at the very bottom corner, you notice the dress code and likely start to panic. What qualifies as "dressy casual," and how do you know if that little red mini is "cocktail" approved? Chill out — we've broken down the basics and made you a handy guide.
Here, you'll find a quick description of each style along with a few perfect options for each occasion. Whether you're headed to the garden for a casual reception or you'll be dancing the night away in a glamorous hall, we found you a look. Read on to shop for your upcoming event, or jump ahead to the category you want to see.
- Dressy Casual [2]
- Cocktail or Semiformal [3]
- Black Tie or Formal [4]
Dressy Casual
If the wedding you're attending follows a more casual dress code, try your sleekest jumpsuit with a kitten heel or wedge. Strappy sleeves, fun prints, and lightweight maxis all fit the bill. You might even style one of these for a night out, so allow yourself to invest in a treasure. These dresses and pants will easily become staples in your wardrobe.
Complete Zimmermann's floral corset jumpsuit [5] ($745) with platform espadrilles and drop earrings.
Rebecca Taylor Dress
If you're not about bright florals, try this Rebecca Taylor dress [6] ($346, originally $577).
Mango Dress
This Mango bow floral dress [7] ($40, originally $80) comes with bell sleeves to keep you semi-warm.
Asos One-Shoulder Dress
Going to a Spring or Summer wedding? This Asos one-shoulder dress [8] ($121) is the perfect fit.
Dee Elly Polka Dot Dress
Hop on the polka dot trend with this fun Dee Elly midi dress [9] ($49).
Who What Wear Stripe Dress
Toss on a pair of fancy heels and this Who What Wear dress [10] ($40) is fit for any casual, fancy occasion.
Lisa Marie Fernandez Dress
This Lisa Marie Fernandez cotton dress [11] ($765) can easily be styled for fancier events with the right accessories.
J.o.a. Flower Dress
You'll find other ways to rewear this Summery J.o.a. dress [12] ($59, originally $105).
H&M Embroidered Mesh Dress
This H&M embroidered mesh dress [13] ($99) would suit weddings held in a garden or vineyard.
Alice + Olivia Jumpsuit
When we hear "dressy casual," we picture this Alice + Olivia Sabeen jumpsuit [14] ($595).
Cocktail or Semiformal
The cocktail dress takes things to the next level. Longer hemlines are ideal, but it might be all about the silk material or the feminine ruffle details on the sleeve. There's something special about this dress, be it the color or the open back. There's no denying that a cocktail affair is fancy, so don't be afraid to dress up and strap on your heels.
Looking to standout in the crowd? Slip on Halston's sequined jersey gown [15] ($495).
Finders Keepers Dress
This Finders Keepers dress [16] ($170) is just the right amount of sexy thanks to the side cutouts.
Nbd x Revolve Niaa Gown
We love the color and satin sheen on this Nbd x Revolve "Niaa" gown [17] ($112, originally $248).
Xscape Jersey Gown
Xscape's sheer mesh gown [18] ($258) comes with sparkling embellishments.
Alfred Sung Gown
You'll feel like the belle of the ball in this Alfred Sung strapless gown [19] ($230).
Oscar de la Renta Beaded Dress
This Oscar de la Renta gown [20] ($7,690) is a work of beauty.
Byron Lars Dress
If you're going to go short, keep it classy with this printed Byron Lars dress [21] ($682).
Rachel Zoe Dress
This off-the-shoulder Rachel Zoe dress [22] ($525) comes in a warm plum color.
Fame & Partners Dress
You can customize this Fame & Partners dress [23] ($229) however you like on the site.
Kate Spade Dress
Tap into your feminine side with this Kate Spade bow dress [24] ($209, originally $598).
Keepsake Gown
The unique neckline on this Keepsake gown [25] ($215) will draw all the eyes to you.
Michael Kors Gown
This Michael Kors Collection gown [26] ($2,895) is cut from crepe and features cutouts.
Topshop Gown
If you want to go netural at the party, slip on this Topshop gown [27] ($750).
Aqua Strapless Velvet Gown
As soon as you put on this Aqua velvet gown [28] ($278), you'll feel ultra glamorous.
Alexander McQueen Gown
If you have the chance to wear this Alexander McQueen dress [29] ($6,980) to a wedding, take it.
Asos Maxi Dress
Look back at this Asos maxi dress [30] ($119).
Black Tie or Formal
A typical black-tie number is floor-length, unless it's got intricate embellishments that dazzle or a killer statement sleeve that looks as though it belongs on the red carpet. A superformal gown is the most fun to shop for — you should keep your power color and best assets in mind and choose a piece that's memorable. You'll be posing for photos, after all, and absolutely everyone will be dressed to impress.
Nothing screams more formal than this beautiful Zac Posen gown [31] ($790).
Parker Monarch Gown
Beads lend a red-carpet touch to this Parker Monarch Gown [32] ($594).
Calvin Klein Gown
If red is your power color, this Calvin Klein high-low option [33] ($249) is for you.
Self-Portrait Maxi Dress
This Self-Portrait maxi [34] ($315) has a high neck fit and ruffled shoulders to give it a Victoriana feel.