Receiving a wedding invitation is always exciting—until you hit the dress code section. Black tie? Cocktail? Beach formal? What does it all mean? Whether you’re heading to a grand ballroom event or a casual garden ceremony, dressing appropriately is key to looking sharp and feeling confident. Not sure where to start? No worries. This guide breaks down the most common wedding dress codes and helps you find the perfect suit for the occasion. Black-Tie: Bring on the Elegance When the invite says black tie, it's time to pull out all the stops. A classic black tuxedo is the gold standard, complete with a white dress shirt, black bow tie, and polished dress shoes. Stick to a traditional satin lapel tux for a timeless look, or opt for a velvet dinner jacket if you want a bit more personality. Pro tip: A black-tie event typically starts in the evening, so keep accessories sleek and understated. A pocket square and cufflinks add just the right amount of flair. Formal or Black-Tie Optional: Classic but Flexible This dress code sits between black tie and cocktail attire. While a tuxedo is always a safe bet, a dark suit in navy, charcoal, or black with a crisp white shirt and a silk tie will also do the trick. For footwear, oxfords or loafers in black or deep brown keep things polished. If you’re unsure how formal to go, lean on the dressier side—it's always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Cocktail Attire: Stylish Yet Relaxed Cocktail attire gives you a little more freedom to showcase your personal style. A well-tailored suit in navy, gray, or even deep green works perfectly. Pair it with a light-colored dress shirt, a patterned or textured tie, and leather dress shoes. This is also a great opportunity to play with accessories. Think pocket squares, fun socks, or even a patterned tie that complements your suit. Avoid: Anything too flashy or casual—no jeans, sneakers, or loud prints. Beach Formal: Light, Breezy, and Sharp A beach wedding doesn't mean you can show up in board shorts and flip-flops (sorry!). Instead, think lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton in light gray, beige, or soft blue. Ditch the tie and go for a crisp button-down with an unstructured blazer for a relaxed but polished look. Pair it with loafers or dress sandals (yes, some weddings allow them—check the invite). Pro tip: Avoid dark colors—they absorb heat. Lighter shades not only look great but will keep you cool under the sun. Casual or Semi-Formal: A Smart Balance For a more laid-back wedding, a sport coat or blazer with dress pants is a safe bet. A button-down shirt (with or without a tie), leather loafers, and a belt that matches your shoes complete the look. While casual weddings allow for a bit more comfort, steer clear of overly relaxed pieces—no polos, sneakers, or cargo pants. Stick to structured, well-fitted pieces that still feel put-together. Bonus Tips for Every Wedding Attire ✔ Fit is King: No matter the dress code, a well-tailored suit makes all the difference. If it doesn’t fit right, it won’t look right.✔ Mind the Weather: Summer weddings call for breathable fabrics like linen or cotton, while winter weddings are perfect for wool and heavier blends.✔ Check the Venue: A vineyard wedding might call for earth tones, while a city wedding might lean toward sleeker styles. Always consider the setting when choosing your look. Final Thoughts: Get Wedding-Ready with The Suit Store Still not sure what to wear? Let The Suit Store take the guesswork out of wedding guest attire. Whether you need a tuxedo for a black-tie event or a breezy linen suit for a beach wedding, we've got you covered with expertly tailored suits that fit just right. ✔ Shop in-store at our Paramus or Philadelphia locations for personalized styling.✔ Explore our online collection for effortless shopping from home.✔ Need a group order for a wedding party? We can help with that too!
Click on logo