What to Wear to a Formal Wedding

When you receive a marriage invitation with a formal dress code, you might wonder what to wear to a formal wedding. The invitation will provide important information about the dress code, the venue, and the time of the year.

A formal wedding is not the time to wear casual dresses. Always think about the formality of the event.

There is a range of dresses available to dress for formal weddings. But what do men wear to a formal marriage? Do you always have to wear a tuxedo? Are suits acceptable? What about accessories?

We are here to help you to dress appropriately for the time, location, and wedding theme.

What is Formal Wedding Attire for Men

Formal wedding dress for men includes a well-tailored suit or tuxedo. Both are versatile and can be paired with different accessories to give a polished yet formal look.

What is a Tuxedo

A tuxedo is a popular dress for formal events.  It features satin lapels, trims, and high quality fabrics.

Accessories for a Tuxedo:

• Dress shirts
• Lapel pins
• Bowties
•  Cufflinks
• Dress shoes

What is a Suit

If the wedding is formal but not black-tie, a well-fitted suit can be the best premium choice for men. Suits are available in different colors and prints. Accessories for a Suit:

• Shirts
• Neckties
• Belts
• Cufflinks
• Shoes
• and many more

Black-Tie vs. Formal Wedding Attire: What's the Difference?

Black-Tie Wedding

An elegant dress code that includes satin lapels, a formal dress shirt, a dark bow tie, and polished black formal shoes.

Formal Wedding

Dark suit or tuxedo, bowties or necktie, crisp formal shirt, and formal shoes.

What to Wear to a Formal Wedding as a Guest

If you plan to attend a marriage ceremony as a guest and are worried about what to wear to a formal wedding as a guest, consider some smart choices. Dark suits like charcoal, navy, or black, paired with a clean white dress shirt and a silk tie, are a smart choice. A pocket square or shiny leather shoes can enhance the overall appearance.

If your wedding invitation states "formal attire," it's recommended to stay away from lighter dresses or casual items such as loafers or sneakers. Instead, choose the lace-up dress shoes in dark brown or black for a more formal look.

The general guideline is to wear formal dress rather than dress casually. A well-tailored suit with the right tie can guarantee you're dressed to impress.

What to Wear to a Formal Wedding in Different Seasons

1. What to Wear to a Formal Summer Wedding

Summer weddings require breathable clothes and lighter shades with a more formal look. If you're unsure what to wear to a formal wedding in the summer, a light linen-blend or wool suit in dark grey or navy is the ideal option. Choose a clean white shirt, silk tie, and comfortable shoes for a cool and comfortable experience.

When your wedding is held on the beach and you wonder what to wear to a formal beach wedding, a beige and blue color suit works well when worn with dress shoes or loafers.

2. What to Wear to a Formal Fall Wedding

Fall comes with cold temperatures and rich colors. Consider dark navy, charcoal or, even a delicate Burgundy suit paired with a tie. Wool suits add warmth but still maintain a professional style.

If you want to attend weddings in October it's possible that you're wondering what to wear to a formal wedding in October. The solution lies in layers: put on woolen vests and a formal coat to stay warm and elegant.

 

3. What to Wear to a Formal Winter Wedding

Winter wedding season demands heavier clothing and dark hues. So, for a winter wedding, choose a deep navy, black, or charcoal suit paired with a wool or velvet blazer, which could provide a sophisticated touch. A stylish coat can be both practical and stylish.

Wedding guests who attend weddings during winter may wonder what to wear to a formal wedding in December and January. The most effective solution is to buy a wool-blend suit, formal jacket, and leather gloves to complete the look.

4. What to Wear to a Formal Spring Wedding

The spring wedding season allows the mix and match of light and dark shades. For spring weddings, a dark or medium-grey suit with a pastel tie can be a good choice. The floral-patterned tie and pocket square give a spring-like appearance and formality.

People who attend an event in the months of March and April may ask what to wear to a formal wedding in March or what to wear to a formal wedding in April.  Choose classic designs and don't be afraid to choose of softer colors that reflect the seasons.

What to Wear to a Formal Wedding Based on Time of Day

Daytime Formal Wedding

A formal daytime wedding allows the wearer to dress in a professional suit, such as black, charcoal, or black. A crisp white dress shirt, silk tie and polished leather shoes finish the overall look.

Evening Formal Wedding

For formal events, the dress code generally tends to be black tie. A tuxedo with an elegant knotted bow, a cummerbund and black dress shoes will give you an elegant look.

Right Accessories for a Formal Wedding  

• Ties and Bow Ties
• Formal Shoes
• Pocket Squares
• Cufflinks and Watches
  
  

To find the most extensive collection of tuxedos, suits, and wedding dresses, check out MenstuxedoUSA and choose an ideal suit for any formal wedding!