How to Dress on Four Different Types of Weddings

Wedding Reception Table

You just got an invitation to a wedding, but you haven’t a thing to wear. Perhaps you’ve never been to a ____ wedding before and have no idea how to dress. Whatever the predicament, not to fear! We analyzed four types of weddings to fill in the above blank – black tie, cocktail, daytime and casual – and broke down an outfit for each so you don’t have to. Now you have no excuse to underdress or look like a hooch. Read on, young ones.

Black Tie
You need to remember two things when you receive an invitation to a black tie wedding – gowns and tuxedos. Don’t even think about showing up to a black tie wedding in a short dress; use this occasion to wear that elegant gown collecting dust in your closet. Accessorize with a pair of sexy, yet tasteful shoes and a ridiculous Judith Leiber clutch.

Cocktail Fairly self-explanatory in name, a cocktail hour wedding reception starts between 5-8 p.m. and serves dinner for the guests. Feel free to wear a short, cocktail style dress but do not feel free to wear something so short your ass is hanging out. Sequins and sparkles are a-okay if they’re tasteful. Sky high heels and statement earrings are completely appropriate.

Daytime Both the ceremony and reception take place during the morning and afternoon at a daytime wedding, so lighter colors and funkier shapes are much more acceptable. Complement a blush, asymmetrical dress with a loud pair of shoes and fascinator for good measure.

Casual If you are going to a wedding on the beach or maybe in a nice city park, dress for the environment. Florals and tribal prints are great for casual weddings, and it’s best to stay away from too many embellishments. A cork heel and chunky bangles top of the look nicely.