
Attending a wedding is an exciting occasion, but it can also be a challenge to find the perfect outfit. The attire you choose depends on the wedding’s dress code, venue, and time of day. Whether you’re attending a beach wedding, an evening reception, or a formal ceremony, this guide will help you choose the right dress for the occasion.
Casual Wedding Guest Dresses
A casual wedding is typically held outdoors or at a casual venue such as a park, backyard, or beach. Casual wedding guest dresses Canada attire allows for more relaxed and comfortable clothing. Here are some ideas for casual wedding guest dresses:
Maxi dresses:
A maxi dress is a comfortable and stylish option for a casual wedding. Choose a flowy, lightweight fabric in a bright color or bold pattern.Introduction:
Wedding season is just around the corner, and as a guest, you want to make sure you look your best without upstaging the bride. But with so many different types of weddings and dress codes, it can be hard to figure out what to wear. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about wedding guest dresses in Canada, from formal evening gowns to casual sundresses.
Decoding Dress Codes
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a wedding guest dress is the dress code. Different types of weddings will have different dress codes, and you don’t want to show up underdressed or overdressed. Here are the most common dress codes you’ll encounter at weddings:
Black tie:
This is the most formal dress code, and usually indicates an evening wedding. Women should wear a full-length gown, while men should wear a tuxedo.
Formal: This dress code is slightly less formal than black tie, but still requires a dressy outfit. Women can wear a cocktail dress or a formal jumpsuit, while men should wear a suit and tie.
Semi-formal: This dress code is also known as “dressy casual,” and is often used for afternoon weddings. Women can wear a cocktail dress or a dressy skirt and blouse, while men can wear a suit or dress pants with a dress shirt.
Casual: This dress code is the most relaxed, and is often used for outdoor or daytime weddings. Women can wear a sundress or a skirt and blouse, while men can wear dress pants or khakis with a dress shirt.
Choosing the Right Style
Once you’ve decoded the dress code, it’s time to choose the right style of dress for the wedding. There are so many different styles of dresses to choose from, so it’s important to consider your body type and personal style when making your choice. Here are some popular styles of wedding guest dresses:
A-line:
This style of dress is fitted at the top and flares out at the waist, creating a flattering silhouette for most body types.
Ballgown:
This style of dress is perfect for a black tie wedding, as it’s very formal and dramatic. It has a fitted bodice and a full skirt, often with layers of tulle or chiffon.
Sheath:
This style of dress is fitted and streamlined, and is great for showing off your curves. It’s a good choice for a semi-formal or formal wedding.
Maxi:
This style of dress is long and flowy, often reaching to the floor. It’s perfect for a summer wedding, and can be dressed up or down depending on the dress code.
Cocktail: This style of dress is shorter than a formal gown, usually hitting just above the knee. It’s a great choice for a semi-formal wedding, and can be dressed up with heels and jewelry.
Fabrics and Colors
The fabric and color of your wedding guest dress can also make a big difference in how appropriate it is for the occasion. Here are some tips for choosing the right fabric and color:
Fabric: Choose a fabric that’s appropriate for the season and the dress code. For example, a cotton sundress might be perfect for a casual summer wedding, while a velvet gown would be more appropriate for a winter black tie wedding.
Color: Avoid wearing white, which is traditionally reserved for the bride. You should also avoid wearing anything too bright or flashy, as you don’t want to draw attention away from the couple. StickSundresses: A sundress is perfect for a daytime wedding. Choose a dress with a flattering silhouette in a fun and playful print.
Jumpsuits: A jumpsuit is a chic alternative to a dress. Choose a lightweight fabric in a bright or bold color, and accessorize with statement jewelry.
Semi-Formal Wedding Guest Dresses
A semi-formal wedding is typically held in the evening at a hotel, banquet hall, or country club. The dress code for a semi-formal wedding is more formal than casual but less formal than black-tie. Here are some ideas for semi-formal wedding guest dresses:
Cocktail dresses: A cocktail dress is a classic choice for a semi-formal wedding. Choose a dress with a flattering silhouette in a bold color or metallic fabric.
Midi dresses: A midi dress is a stylish and sophisticated option for a semi-formal wedding. Choose a dress with a classic silhouette in a neutral color or floral print.
Skirt and blouse: A skirt and blouse combination is a stylish and versatile option for a semi-formal wedding. Choose a midi skirt in a bright color or bold print, and pair it with a fitted blouse and statement jewelry.
Formal Wedding Guest Dresses
A formal wedding is typically held in the evening at a grand venue such as a ballroom or historic estate. The dress code for a formal wedding is more formal than semi-formal and typically requires floor-length dresses. Here are some ideas for formal wedding guest dresses:
Evening gowns: An evening gown is the most formal option for a wedding. Choose a gown with a flattering silhouette in a classic color such as black, navy, or red.
Ball gowns: A ball gown is a dramatic and elegant option for a formal wedding. Choose a gown with a full skirt and fitted bodice in a rich fabric such as satin or velvet.
Formal jumpsuits: A formal jumpsuit is a chic and modern alternative to an evening gown. Choose a jumpsuit with a wide-leg silhouette in a luxe fabric such as silk or velvet.
Accessories
In addition to your dress, you’ll also need to choose the right accessories to complete your outfit. Here are some tips for choosing accessories for a wedding:
Shoes: Choose comfortable shoes that are appropriate for the venue. For a casual wedding, sandals or flats are a good choice. For a formal wedding, opt for heels in a neutral color such as black or nude.
Jewelry: Choose statement jewelry that complements your dress. For a casual wedding, choose boho-inspired pieces such as layered necklaces or hoop earrings. For a formal wedding, choose elegant and sophisticated pieces such as diamond studs or a statement bracelet.
Bag: Choose a small clutch or evening bag that complements your dress. For a casual wedding, choose a straw or woven bag. For a formal wedding, choose a clutch in a luxeIf you’re attending a wedding in Canada, you’ll want to dress appropriately for the occasion. Here are some tips on what to consider when choosing a wedding guest dress in Canada:
Check the dress code: Before choosing a dress, make sure to check the dress code provided by the bride and groom. In Canada, weddings can have various dress codes, such as black-tie, semi-formal, or cocktail attire. Knowing the dress code will help you pick the right dress for the occasion.
Consider the season and location: The season and location of the wedding can also affect the dress you choose. For example, if the wedding is in the summer, you may want to choose a dress in a lighter fabric, while a wedding in the winter may require a dress with sleeves or a jacket to keep warm. If the wedding is outdoors, you may want to choose a dress that is comfortable to move in and doesn’t drag on the ground.
Choose a style that flatters your body type: When selecting a wedding guest dress, consider your body type and choose a style that flatters your figure. Some popular dress styles for wedding guests in Canada include A-line, sheath, and fit-and-flare dresses.
Select the right color: The color of your dress is also an important consideration. Avoid wearing white, which is typically reserved for the bride. Instead, opt for colors that complement the wedding theme and season, such as pastels for a spring wedding or jewel tones for a fall wedding.
Accessorize appropriately: Once you’ve chosen your dress, it’s important to accessorize appropriately. Select shoes that are comfortable to wear and appropriate for the wedding venue, and choose accessories such as jewelry, a clutch, or a wrap that complement your dress.
Some popular places to shop for wedding guest dresses in Canada include Hudson’s Bay, Nordstrom, and Anthropologie. You can also browse online retailers such as ASOS, Revolve, and Lulus for a wider selection of dresses.