There are a lot of decisions to make during the wedding planning process, and one of them is how formal you want your guests to dress. The bride’s gown, the wedding venue, and the overall theme often influence this choice, but it ultimately comes down to the couple’s personal style. As Toronto wedding photographers, we can say that any guest attire looks great in photos when it matches the mood and formality of the event. To help you decide, here is a breakdown of what you can expect guests to wear based on each dress code.
White Tie
White tie is the most formal of all wedding dress codes. It is rare these days and usually reserved for luxurious, grand weddings. Male guests should wear a tuxedo jacket with tails, a white pique vest, formal dress shoes, and a bow tie. Female guests are expected to wear full-length ball gowns, often in classic or neutral colors, paired with elegant accessories.
Black Tie
If you want a classic and elegant wedding, black tie is the perfect option. This dress code is still formal but a bit more common than white tie, especially for upscale weddings in Toronto. Men should wear a tuxedo, a cummerbund or vest, and a bow tie. Women can choose an evening gown or a sophisticated cocktail dress.
Formal “Black Tie Optional”
Many couples choose this slightly less strict option. Men can wear either a tuxedo or a dark formal suit with a tie. Women have more flexibility as well. They can opt for a long dress, a dressy cocktail dress, or even a formal suit. This dress code is a great way to encourage a polished look without requiring guests to purchase tuxedos or gowns if they do not already own them.
Beach Formal
Despite the name, beach formal works for any outdoor summer or spring wedding, not just those taking place on sand. This dress code is popular for destination weddings and garden ceremonies. Men can wear a light suit, linen separates, or khakis with a button-down shirt. Women can wear a formal sundress and may choose sandals or wedges instead of heels.
Semiformal “Dressy Casual”
This is the most common wedding dress code we see at weddings. It strikes a balance between formal and casual. Male guests usually wear a suit and tie in any color. Female guests can wear a cocktail dress or a dressy skirt or pants paired with a nice blouse.
Casual
A casual dress code can sometimes cause confusion, so it is a good idea to clarify expectations when choosing this option. For men, casual usually means dress pants, khakis, or dark jeans paired with a button-down shirt or polo. For women, a sundress, a nice top and skirt, or a simple cocktail dress works well. Typically, shorts, graphic tees, and sneakers are avoided unless the couple specifically says otherwise.
Final Thoughts
The key to beautiful wedding photos is not necessarily how formal the dress code is, but how consistent it is. When all guests are dressed according to the same standard, it creates a cohesive look that complements the venue and overall wedding style. A handful of guests in jeans among tuxedos can be distracting, just as overly formal attire can feel out of place at a casual garden wedding. Whatever dress code you choose, the most important thing is that it reflects the tone and spirit of your special day.
If you are looking for a Toronto wedding photographer who can capture every stylish detail, contact AGI Studio today. We would be honoured to photograph your big day.
