Bombshell Guide to Wedding Dress Codes

White tie, Black tie, Morning Suits, Lounge suits... So what does it all mean? With a growing trend for so many different styles of weddings it's no wonder so many of us are in a spin. Here's my Bombshell guide to choosing your perfect wedding guest dress and making sure you ‘get it right.

What Does White Tie Wedding Attire Mean?

Okay, so it doesn't get much more formal than this - ever. Absolutely opt for a full length ball gown or evening dress. It really is the perfect opportunity to go all out. White Tie invitations are often in the evening to occasions such as banquets or very formal weddings, so definitely a full-length dress. There's no better time to wear sequins than at a White Tie event. In the Bombshell Anniversary Sequin Gown, you are guaranteed to shine.

Does the idea full length send you in to a spin? Allow enough time to make any length alterations needed. Be sure to wear your chosen heel height when having a fitting.

When it comes to footwear, go for height yet prioritise comfort. You'll want to create a long line, but you will also need to be able to walk confidently and unhindered. I personally adore White Tie events. You can really channel your inner Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor or Dita Von Teese, to name but a few glamour pusses. The man attending will be in tails with a white waistcoat and a bow tie or in military.

How About Black Tie Wedding Attire?

Definitely the most seen dress code these days, often for an evening reception. Unless specified, ladies may choose to wear either a cocktail length dress or a ball gown, i.e. a floor-length dress. 

Did you know after 5pm, formal attire for men means a tuxedo? 

This category of wedding invitation is very broad and a wedding guests can choose their favourite Little Black Dress or really go for it with an evening gown. 

It's often a challenge to find great evening dresses with sleeves, but at Bombshell, we've definitely got you covered here!

If your invitation says Black tie optional or formal, it’s likely to be a bit more of a mix, but there's a clear expectation to dress up. Men can wear a suit or a tux.

Morning Suit Dress Code

Quintessentially English and a very formal day time dress code. For him, think Four Weddings and a Funeral, and for you, elegant block colours are perfect.

Often, this is for a church wedding, so arm coverage is required for wedding guests. Our Confident Bombshell 3/4 sleeve dress is perfect if you don't want to wear a jacket and skirt. Length wise, we love 'just past the knee', and most of our dresses are this length. We have recently added an elliptical midi dress which as been extremely popular too.

Semi Formal or Smart Casual Wedding Attire

What does this ever mean?! Well, for men, it could mean jeans and a jacket or a short-sleeve shirt or maybe a linen suit. For you, it means you probably wouldn't opt for an evening gown. Choosing a Bombshell Confident Dress is a good idea here. It's a great day-to-evening dress and definitely smart. With an array of plains and prints, there is a lot to choose from. Traditional pale pinks and blues or a more directional print will be a fail-safe option.