7 Creative Wedding Dress Codes That Are in Fashion Today
Have you ever received a wedding invitation with a dress code that has you scratching your head? If so, you’re not alone. Couples these days are finding more creative ways to make their special day stand out from everyone else’s and reflect who they are in terms of their personal style.
To help set the tone for the wedding, it’s in any guest’s best interest to follow the dress code introduced by the groom and the bride. But what if you’re confronted with a dress code that goes beyond the usual casual, formal, and black tie?
This article will help you decode the trendy wedding themes behind these new dress codes and have you attending your next wedding without looking like you missed the memo. Here are seven wedding dress codes that are en vogue right now:
1) Monochromatic
There’s an undeniable elegance in simplicity, and that’s precisely what the monochromatic dress code imparts. Imagine a sea of guests dressed in varying shades of a single color, creating a visually stunning and harmonious backdrop to the couple.
Whether it’s a rather unconventional all-black affair that the couple want, or a sea of blush pink to reflect the season in which the couple first met, the key to nailing this dress code is to commit to one color from head to toe.
For men, this could mean a well-tailored suit, shirt, and tie in the chosen hue, while ladies can opt for monochromatic dresses paired with coordinating accessories. Not only does a monochromatic color theme exude sophistication, but also unity in celebrating the couple’s happiness.
2) Traditional Festive
Some couples opt to celebrate their cultural heritage with a festive dress code. It’s now quite common for couples to ask their guests—even those who are considered foreigners—to wear traditional clothing from a particular country and culture. Such a dress code puts an additional touch of festivity into the proceedings and encourages guests to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions that mean a lot to the couple.
For instance, men can wear traditional outfits such as Mexican guayabera shirts or Indian kurta garments, and women can wear a beautifully embroidered off-shoulder gown or a traditional Indian saree, at a wedding where the celebrants hail from either of those cultures. If you have the privilege of attending a wedding with this kind of dress code, don’t hesitate to reach out to the couple for recommendations and to clarify any questions you might have for wearing the garments respectfully.
3) Farmhouse Chic
The rustic aesthetic of barnyard weddings has captured the hearts of many couples. Also known as farmhouse chic or fancy ranch chic, this dress code is characterized by its down-to-earth aesthetic and earthy, muted tones. If you’re attending one of these charming affairs, think casual yet rustically elegant.
Men can wear tweed vests paired with bow ties, while women can choose interesting-looking dresses with lace or floral motifs. You can also accessorize a more classic wedding look with earthy elements like wooden jewelry or leather belts to add a touch of rustic charm.
For footwear, don’t hesitate to rock a pair of cowboy boots and wear some fun socks for women or men for comfort and warmth. Farmhouse chic weddings are all about the perfect blend of countryside simplicity and style, and this is a dress code you may have a lot of fun following.
4) Coastal Chic
Are you headed for a destination beach wedding? If the answer is yes, remember that beach weddings call for a dress code that embodies the breezy and relaxed atmosphere of the seaside. It’s not the place to wear your velvet gown, unless you want to bring home some of the beach sand that will certainly cling to your dress.
Coastal chic attire features nautical elements and laid-back, beachy vibes. For men, linen suits in soft blues or sandy hues are a great choice. Instead of leather loafers, a pair of sandals will be better suited for the sandy beach they’ll walk on.
Meanwhile, women can opt for flowy dresses in shades like aqua or coral. For footwear, heels should be subbed out for flat sandals. It’s even possible to just go barefoot, sporting little more than ankle bracelets.
Accessories like shell necklaces and straw hats will complete the coastal look that’s perfect for celebrating a beach wedding. Dress the part, and you can definitely count on a beach wedding to be one for the books.
5) Desert Chic
For weddings set amid the arid beauty of deserts, the desert chic dress code is now in fashion. This theme draws inspiration from desert landscapes, offering a unique and stylish experience to guests. Aside from aesthetics, comfort should be a big consideration for this type of dress code since high temperatures can make it unpleasant to wear fabrics such as polyester or wool.
For this dress code, men can consider lightweight suits in desert-inspired colors like terracotta, while women can opt for dresses with earthy tones and desert motifs. Either way, don’t forget to prioritize sun protection and opt for breathable fabrics to stay comfortable in the desert heat.
6) Bohemian Black-Tie
Also known as black-tie Boho, this wedding dress code combines Bohemian free-spiritedness with the sophistication of a black-tie event. The theme encourages flowing and unconventional formal wear for both men and women.
If you happen you have vintage formal wear in your closet (or in an older family member’s), you can certainly consider using it instead of buying new attire for the wedding. For this dress code, men can dust off their velvet jackets or statement bow ties to wear for the event. Plus points if they can rock the “man bun” and beard combo. Women, on the other hand, can go all out with Boho-chic dresses and floral crowns.
7) Glamorous Gatsby
Finally, you’ll be able to step back in time to the roaring 1920s if the couple rolls out a glamorous Gatsby dress code. This theme is all about vintage-inspired elegance and Art Deco opulence.
To achieve the look straight out of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, men can don sharp suits and suspenders, while women can opt for glamorous drop waist dresses with intricate beading and fringe. What’s more, you can complete the look with feathered headpieces, long strands of pearls, and stylish hair accessories. Indeed, a glamorous Gatsby wedding proffers you the spectacular chance to relive the glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age with the fun-loving celebrants.
Watch this video to get some more ideas:
To conclude…
No matter how strange you might find it at first, you’ll be able to honor the bride and groom’s vision for their big event by complying with the dress code. Dressing a little differently from how you usually do at weddings will also provide you with a great opportunity to express yourself and your own sense of creativity and fun.
Instead of being overly anxious or stressed about finding the right outfit for the wedding, treat it as a fun challenge. The next time people you love declare their intentions to tie the knot, think about how to put your own twist on the theme for their dress code!