I’ve started decoding dress codes over on Polka Dot Groom and I’ve had a few requests to decode them for the ladies too. I thought it might be a helpful guide, especially with wedding season upon us! You know the couple best though, so if there are variations or you know them to mean something different in your circles, then wear what is most appropriate! (Thank you, Captain Obvious!)

Elenora gown from Rachel Gilbert, Simple Glamour earrings from Mimco, Wonder clutch from Mimco, QOPH heels from Mollini

White Tie

The most formal dress code of them all, white tie demands a floor length evening gown with a glamorous edge. Accessories should be decadent – beautiful earrings and bracelet or a beautiful beaded necklace. Wear heels in a evening style (like metallic or silk) to match the formality of the occasion while keeping your makeup and hair pristine and beautifully made up.

 

 

Anywhere But Here frock from Alannah Hill, I’m Over The Moon headband from Alannah Hill,  crystal dome studs from Mimco, Sparkle high heel from Witchery

Black Tie

A step down from white tie, black tie invites the wearer to don a floor length evening gown or glitzy, elegant cocktail gown in an evening fabric – such as silk, chiffon or even taffeta. The dress should be a dark colour or be matched with dark accessories. Keep accessories in the after 5pm style- sparkly, dramatic and pretty and add beautiful shoes. Keep hair beautifully styled and makeup as if you were heading out after dark.

Halli halter dress from Forever New, Chandeliers At Dusk earrings from Samantha Wills, Moonsky hardcase clutch from Mimco, Try shoes from Wittner

Formal

A step down from black tie, the formal dress code suits pretty cocktail dresses in beautiful fabrics – silks & chiffon are perfect for this. Formal allows a little more flair than black tie, so  add colour through metallics and pretty accessories.

 

Sunset ruffle dress from Gorman, Floral Divina Choker from Mimco, Eloise heels from Diana Ferrari

Lounge Suit/Semi Formal

A sweet cocktail dress or dressy skirt and top are just right for a “Lounge Suit” or semi formal coded wedding. A touch of fun can be added with a bold piece of jewellery or a vibrantly coloured accessory – like an orange clutch bag. If the wedding is an evening celebration, think of darker colours. Heels are a must.

 

Chevron stripe dress from Country Road, Sachie mixed stone drop earrings from Forever New, woven wallet from Gorman, Meg sandal from Witchery

Casual

Feel free and comfortable when dressing for a casual wedding. A lovely summer dress (or even a maxi) in a light fabric like cotton or jersey. Flat shoes or wedges and a colourful piece of jewellery to style it up.