Decipher the dress code
Dress codes can be a tricky thing. How casual is too casual? And how were you supposed to know that you would be balancing your stilettos on grass for most of the day. As if the traditional dress codes – black tie, cocktail, smart casual, and semi-formal were not confusing enough, new creative dress codes like a fancy garden party or elegant beach wedding are making it even harder to decipher the dress code.
As wedding planners and stylists, we get to be part of many weddings every year! Based on the things the Honey Lane team has observed, we would like to give you some tips and tricks for dress codes!
Stationary
Stationary can tell you more than just the timings and locations. The tone and imagery of the save the date and invitation can give you a hint about how formal the wedding will be, if there is a theme, what the wedding location is like.
The actual dress code
If you are lucky, the couple will make things a little bit easier for you and provide a dress code on the invitation. As mentioned, the modern creative dress codes are still a bit of a puzzle… but a short summary of the three most popular traditional wedding dress codes:
Black tie: Very sophisticated and formal. Tuxedo for men, or when the invite says black tie optional, you can skip the tuxedo for a black suit. Traditionally black tie means long dresses for women, nowadays shorter dresses are also acceptable (we think!) but keep in mind very sophisticated and formal!
Cocktail: YAY more creative freedom! More playful choices are welcomed but still keep in mind semi-formal. Traditionally cocktail meant knee-length dresses for women, but nowadays, his isn’t really the case anymore. Separates and jumpsuits are an option just keep it classy.
Smart casual: Relaxed but still dressed up. This one gives you a lot of options as long as you don’t dress too smart or too casual… yes, we know still a lot of room for error.
Location
Beach wedding? Probably not smart to wear your 10cm heels. The same advice goes for a farm, rustic, or marquee wedding (we can guarantee you will be standing on grass at some point). Tip: Google the location to get a better idea of what you (and your feet) will have to work with.
Seasons
Australia has it all, cold windy winters, extremely hot sunny days, and endless rain. Do yourself a pleasure and check the weather forecast and try to dress appropriately.
For summer: wear sunscreen and bring sunscreen. What about an elegant hat that will protect your face (and makeup) from the sun? Or hot tip for the brides and grooms out there – think about getting some cute umbrellas for your guests. Or of course get your wedding planner or stylist to think of a creative option for some shade!
For winter: when planning your outfit think of your top layers. That beautiful dress you bought won’t be as beautiful anymore when covered with your old winter coat. when planning your outfit think of your top layers. That beautiful dress you bought won’t be as beautiful anymore when covered with your old winter coat.
Hot tip for the bride and groom: Weather prediction looking rainy? Have some clear umbrella’s ready for your guests. This way your guests will stay dry and your photos won’t be ruined by Bunnings umbrella’s. This is something your amazing wedding planners would arrange for you ;)
What about the guys?
For guys dress codes might be a bit less tricky, but does that mean they have to wear a standard suit to every wedding? The Honey Lane says definitely not! We have spotted playful ties, chinos, cropped pants, loafers and a lot of linen.
And last but not least, ENJOY! Enjoy being part of someone’s love story and enjoy the occasion to dress up!
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We are your wedding planners and stylists located in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. You can contact us via our website at www.honeylane.com, our Instagram @honeylaneevents, or email us at hello@honeylane.com.
