How to Nail Every Men's Wedding Dress Codes

April 12, 2023
Last edited January 30, 2026

When you are invited to a wedding, it is important to give a little more thought than everyday dressing. Not because the rules are strict, but because the occasion matters. Getting men’s wedding attire right helps you feel confident, comfortable, and properly dressed for the setting.

Whether the invitation points to a black tie wedding or a relaxed daytime ceremony, as a wedding guest understanding different wedding dress codes makes choosing what to wear far easier. The best wedding outfits for men are simple, well-fitted, and appropriate for the level of formality.

What to wear to a wedding - Men's Style Guide

Wedding dress codes exist to set expectations. Once you understand them, choosing the right suit for a wedding becomes straightforward.

Each dress code reflects how formal the event is and how structured your suit should be. From black tie weddings to more casual celebrations, the key is matching your suit to the setting without overdoing it.

Custom-made, high-quality suits will ensure that your outfit is both stylish and appropriate when going to a wedding. As an added benefit, custom clothing is an investment that will pay off in the long run; beyond the occasion of wedding attire, you can wear your suit or tuxedo repeatedly, making it one of the best investments you've ever made.

Islington, white
Tuxedo dress shirt, wing collar

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Monticelli, black

Black two-piece tuxedo

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Monticelli, navy

Navy two-piece tuxedo

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Islington, white
Tuxedo dress shirt, wing collar

4.7/5

$163.99

Monticelli, black

Black two-piece tuxedo

4.9/5

$849

Monticelli, navy

Navy two-piece tuxedo

4.9/5

$849

Most Common Wedding Dress Codes for Men

When it comes to what to wear to a wedding and the dress codes for men there are a few different options for wedding attire. Knowing which suit to wear will ensure that you feel and look good on this special day. Below are the most common dress codes for wedding attire.

Black Tie Dress Code

The black tie dress code is a formal wedding dress code. A black tie wedding attire outfit typically consists of a black tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a black bow tie, and black patent leather shoes. A nice pair of black dress shoes will complete your outfit and leave a lasting impression. If you're attending a black tie wedding, it's important to be well-groomed to look your best.

How do I dress for a Black Tie wedding?

- A black tuxedo with a tailored fit
- A white tuxedo dress shirt
- A black bow tie
- Polished black dress shoes

White tie

A white tie wedding is a truly elegant affair and the most formal of all men's wedding attire dress codes. It calls for a certain level of formality in terms of dress for the wedding attire. For men, this typically means wearing a black tailcoat, white shirt, white vest, and white tie. While this may seem like a lot of white, keep in mind that the goal is to look clean and sharp. If you're unsure which route to go, err on the side of formality and opt for the tailcoat. With the right accessories, you'll be sure to make a lasting impression.

What is the White Tie dress code?
- A black tailcoat with matching trousers
- A white wing-collar dress shirt
- A white waistcoat and bow tie
- Formal black dress shoes

Formal

If you're invited to a wedding with a formal dress code, you'll need to invest in a classic three-piece suit or if the invitation specifies black tie, a tuxedo.
Choosing an ensemble for a formal wedding dress code is actually quite simple. The key is to remember that dark colors are always more formal than light, and that classic silhouettes are always a good bet for the wedding. For daytime weddings, a dark suit or a tuxedo is always appropriate. If the weather is warm, you may want to go with a lighter fabric such as cotton.

What to wear to a formal wedding?
- A dark suit or tuxedo
- A crisp dress shirt
- A tie chosen to suit the occasion
- Leather dress shoes

Semi-Formal Dress Code

A semi-formal wedding is a great opportunity to dress up and have some fun with your wardrobe. For men, this typically means wearing a two piece suit or sport coat and tie. However, there is no need to go overboard with the formality for the wedding. A dark suit in navy or charcoal gray will be appropriate for most occasions. If you don't own a suit, you can also wear a dress shirt and dress pants.

Just be sure to avoid anything too casual, like jeans or khakis. When it comes to shoes, Oxfords or loafers are always a good choice. Don't forget to accessorize. A pocket square or boutonniere will add a touch of style without being too over the top.

What does a semi formal wedding attire consist of?
- A navy or charcoal suit
- A well-fitted dress shirt
- A tie that feels natural to the setting
- Classic dress shoes

Casual Wedding Men's Attire

The casual wedding dress code is the least formal of all wedding dress codes for men. A casual outfit to wear to a wedding can consist of jeans, shorts, a t-shirt or polo shirt, and sneakers or sandals. It is important to note that clothing should still be clean and well-fitting when choosing what to wear to a casual wedding.

What is casual men's wedding attire?
- Tailored chinos or lightweight trousers
-A button-up shirt or refined polo
-Clean leather shoes or simple sneakers

Tropical or Destination Wedding Dress Code

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing what to wear to a tropical or destination wedding as a male wedding guest. First, consider the climate of the location. If it is going to be hot and sunny, lightweight and breathable fabrics are key. Linen is always a good option, and a classic white linen shirt works well in most settings. Khaki shorts or trousers can also be appropriate, depending on the formality of the event.

Many destination weddings have a more relaxed dress code, but it is still best to err on the side of caution and dress slightly more formally than you think you should. If the wedding takes place in the evening, a light sweater or jacket can add both comfort and polish. A suit is always a safe choice, but if that feels too formal, dress trousers paired with a collared shirt will also work well.

What is the best way to dress for a destination wedding?
-Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton
- Lighter colours suited to the location
-Relaxed tailoring with clean proportions

Styling Tips and Wedding Dress Code Do's and Don'ts

With wedding attire, there are a few things to keep in mind.

1. It's important to be respectful of the dress code. If the invitation says "black tie," that means no jeans or sneakers.

2. While you want to look your best, it's also important not to upstage the bride or groom.

3. A watch is always a nice touch, avoid using it with a tuxedo, though.

4. Avoid any colors that might clash with the bride's dress.

5. Make sure your suit or tuxedo is well-tailored and fits well.

6. Remember to add a few personal touches to your outfit, such as a boutonniere or pocket square.

7. Don't forget about your shoes! Make sure they're polished and comfortable — you don't want sore feet by the end of the night.

How to Nail Every Men's Wedding Dress Codes

What to wear to a wedding - Men's Style Guide

Most Common Wedding Dress Codes for Men

Black Tie Dress Code

White tie

Formal

Semi-Formal Dress Code

Casual Wedding Men's Attire

Tropical or Destination Wedding Dress Code

Styling Tips and Wedding Dress Code Do's and Don'ts

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