Let’s be honest - wedding invitations are full of love, excitement, and the occasional dress code confusion. “Cocktail attire”? “Black tie optional”? “Beach formal”? If you’ve ever stared blankly at a wedding invite trying to decode what’s appropriate, you’re not alone.
At Volle’s Bridal & Boutique, we’re here to help you look and feel your best without second-guessing your outfit. Whether you’re attending a glam evening affair or a breezy garden celebration, we’re breaking down the most common dress codes and showing you exactly what to wear - ladies and gents included.
Cocktail Attire
For Her:
Cocktail attire calls for a polished dress that’s shorter than floor length - but still elevated. Think sleek silhouettes, interesting fabrics, and details that say “I’m here to celebrate.” The Bonnie gown by Sachin & Babi in Pewter is a perfect pick: a one-shoulder stunner with a bold bow and clean column fit that turns heads without trying too hard.
Bonnie |
For Him:
Opt for a smart suit with a tie. The Indigo Metro Suit is a confident, modern choice. Its trim fit and soft wool-blend fabric keep it sharp and comfortable, while the deep indigo hue brings just the right amount of formality.
Semi-Formal / Dressy Casual
For Her:
This is where you get to play with color, style, and prints. The Addison Gown in Glacial Blue Blossoms brings a fresh, feminine charm to the table with its tailored shirt-style bodice, soft pleats, and delicate embellishments. It’s a dress that feels both relaxed and refined - ideal for a slightly dressed-up daytime celebration.
Addison |
For Him:
A tailored suit without a tie is totally appropriate. Want to stand out? Try the Sage Metro Suit - fresh, fashion-forward, and incredibly comfortable thanks to its 4-way stretch. Pair it with a crisp button-down and loafers for that relaxed-yet-refined vibe.
Indigo |
Sage |
Garden or Beach Wedding
For Her:
Airy, elegant, and easy to move in - that’s the goal. The Addison Gown works beautifully for this too. With its breathable fabric, three-quarter sleeves, and light floral print, it blends seamlessly with outdoor settings while keeping you chic and polished.
Addison |
For Him:
Light-colored suits or linen pieces work great here. Think minimal, breathable, and beach-friendly. Stick to pastels, sage, or light gray, and skip the tie unless the invite specifies it. (That Sage Metro Suit we mentioned earlier? Also works beautifully for this!)
Black Tie Optional
For Her:
This is your chance to shine in a long, elevated gown without needing full-on red carpet glam. The Bonnie dress with its sleek silhouette and bold shoulder detail offers just the right amount of drama, while still feeling sophisticated and timeless.
Bonnie |
For Him:
You can wear a tux, but a dark suit and tie combo will still meet the mark. Stick to clean lines, polished shoes, and elevated accessories like pocket squares or cufflinks.
Black Tie
For Her:
It’s time to bring out the big fashion guns. Floor-length gowns, luxurious fabrics, and sophisticated details are all fair game. The tailored elegance of the Addison gown or the modern statement of Bonnie will have you looking the part for a formal evening celebration.
For Him:
A tuxedo is standard here - black jacket, black bow tie, black patent shoes. Trust us, the formalwear is part of the fun. Think classic James Bond, not business meeting.
No matter what the dress code, we’ve got the fashion-forward pieces and expert styling advice to make sure you’re dressed to impress. From standout suits to show-stopping gowns, Volle’s Bridal & Boutique is your one-stop destination for wedding guest style.
Ready to find your perfect look? Book your appointment with us today!