Follow the dress code on the invitation, avoid white, ivory and anything that looks bridal, and check you will not match the bridal party. Evening weddings call for longer, richer gowns; day weddings suit lighter fabrics and shorter lengths. If the ceremony has cultural or religious customs, ask the hosts what they would like guests to wear.
On this page
What do wedding dress codes mean?
| On the invitation | What it usually means for a guest |
|---|---|
| White tie | Full-length ball gown. Rare at weddings. |
| Black tie | Floor-length evening gown. |
| Black tie optional or formal | A long gown, or an elegant cocktail or midi dress. |
| Cocktail | Knee to midi length, dressy fabrics. |
| Semi-formal or dressy casual | A smart dress, separates or a jumpsuit. |
| Beach or garden | Light fabrics, flat or block heels for sand and grass. |
| Themed | Follow the theme, and ask the couple if unclear. |
Hosts use these terms differently. If you are not sure, it is perfectly polite to ask the couple or a member of the bridal party. Our black tie guide explains formal codes in more depth.
Which colours should a wedding guest avoid?
- White, ivory and cream: in Western weddings these are kept for the bride. Avoid very pale blush or champagne that could read as white in photos.
- The bridal party colour: ask, or check the wedding website, so you don’t match the bridesmaids.
- Colours with cultural meaning: some traditions reserve red for the bride, and some avoid black or white at celebrations. Check with the hosts.
- Anything bridal in shape: a long, full, pale gown with a train can look like a wedding dress even in colour.
Our evening gown colour guide has ideas for colours that work well.
What should I wear to a day or an evening wedding?
Day weddings
Lighter fabrics, brighter or softer colours and shorter lengths: midi dresses, cocktail dresses, jumpsuits or a light long dress. Florals and prints suit daytime.
Evening weddings
Richer fabrics, deeper colours and longer lengths. Velvet, satin, lace and beading all suit evening. Black is widely accepted at evening weddings in Australia, though not everywhere, so check if unsure.
Ceremony and reception at different times
A wrap or jacket can carry a dress from an afternoon ceremony into the evening. Our evening gown styles guide shows which shapes are easiest to wear all day and night.
What should I wear to a cultural or religious ceremony?
Customs vary widely between cultures, faiths, communities and families, so the best advice is to ask the hosts. General points to consider:
- Some places of worship ask guests to cover shoulders, arms, knees or hair. A shawl or wrap is useful.
- Some ceremonies involve sitting on the floor or removing shoes.
- Some families welcome guests in traditional dress; others prefer guests not to.
- Colour meanings differ between cultures.
Catherine’s travels taught her to embrace every culture, and a bespoke gown can be designed with those customs in mind.
How do I dress for an Australian wedding season?
- Summer (December to February): light, breathable fabrics such as georgette, organza and cotton. Plan for heat, sun and outdoor ceremonies.
- Autumn (March to May): mild days and cooler nights. Bring a wrap.
- Winter (June to August): velvet, heavier silks, sleeves, an evening coat.
- Spring (September to November): changeable weather. Layers help.
Our evening gown fabrics guide explains which fabrics suit each season.
A wedding guest checklist
- Read the dress code and the venue.
- Check the bridal party colours.
- Ask about any cultural or religious customs.
- Check the weather and plan a layer.
- Choose shoes for the ground: grass, sand or stairs.
- Try on the full outfit, sit, walk and dance.
For a gown made for the day, see our wedding guest dresses in Sydney, or if you are the mother of the bride or groom, our mother of the bride gowns. To start, book a consultation.
