Black tie, black tie optional, festive attire, dressy casual, etc., once that invite arrives, you find that these phrase is your only clue on what to wear to a wedding. While this code-like language may not mean much to the average wedding guest, the useful guide will help you decipher what this dress code means for you. So, for all beautiful plus size ladies, how’s a woman to navigate the difference between black tie optional and dressy casual, formal and semiformal? Learn them with this easy handy guide, naturally.
Dressing for a wedding obviously is not only about dress codes, knowing various wedding guest etiquettes are also among the essential rules of what to wear to a wedding. Learn “Wedding Guest Attire: What to Wear to a Wedding – part 1, 2, 3” for more general advice, along with more and more ideas of Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses via :
– What to Wear to a Wedding : Shoes, Clutches and Jewelries
– What to Wear to a Wedding : Spring Summer 2014 Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses
– What to Wear to a Wedding : Fall Winter 2014 Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses
– 15 Plus Size Fall Winter Wedding Guest Dress – Outfit Ideas
Additionally, here in this post I will only write a super easy and simple description about each dress code in general. Please learn “Wedding Guest Dress Spring Summer 2015 from Various Labels” for a more detailed cheat sheet, in case you still need more information and references. Here’s a few outfits that would fit six of the most commonly requested dress codes, along with some advices for dressing for each one:
Page:
1. Black Tie Wedding Dress Code
2. Formal or Black Tie Optional Wedding Dress Code
3. Semi Formal or Dressy Casual Wedding Dress Code
4. Festive Attire Wedding Dress Code
5. Beach Formal Wedding Dress Code
6. Casual Wedding Dress Code
“Black Tie Wedding Dress Code”
Black Tie means Formal
It’s a formal event by most people’s standards that usually indicates an evening affair begins after 6 p.m. Think glamour and bring on the beads and sequins. Dramatic jewelry is welcome, and coiffed hair is a must.
Women should wear : An evening floor length gown in glam material, cut, or embellishment.
Men should wear : A tuxedo and a bow tie
“Formal or Black Tie Optional Wedding Dress Code”
Black Tie Optional means Slightly Formal
The event is slightly less formal than black tie. “Black Tie Optional” suggests less pressure for the men to wear a tuxedo, that men can wear tuxedos but not to insist on it. So generally, a tuxedo isn’t required, but the event is still formal enough for one to be appropriate.
Women should wear : A long dress, a cocktail dress, or a formal knee-length dress
Men should wear : A dark suit and tie
ASOS: Lovedrobe Wrap Over Embellished Maxi Dress ($160) / Chi Chi London Plus Metallic Lace Cap Sleeve Midi Prom Dress ($126) / Lovedrobe Wrap Front Embellished Midi Dress ($134) / Chi Chi London Plus Metallic Embroidered Bandeau Dress ($126)
IGIGI : Adelle Plus Size Dress in Garnet Lace ($258) / Ambrosia Plus Size Dress in Deep Rouge($178) / Blake Plus Size Gown in Bombay Teal ($198) / Mally Plus Size Maxi Dress in Rose Garden ($158)
Kiyonna : Rumor Ruched Dress ($118) / Foxfire Faux Wrap Dress ($108) / Stop and Stare Ruched Dress ($128) / Valentina Illusion Dress ($118)
Macy’s : Patra Beaded Tiered Evening Dress ($169) / SL Fashions Beaded-Neck Tiered Shift ($129) / R&M Richards Sleeveless Metallic Dress and Jacket ($129) / Betsy & Adam Cold-Shoulder Embellished Blouson Dress ($199)
Macy’s : Alex Three-Quarter-Sleeve Sequin Lace Sheath ($169) / Adrianna Papell Plus Size Banded-Waist Lace Sheath ($249) / Patra Kimono-Sleeve Beaded Dress ($229) / Adrianna Papell Short-Sleeve Beaded Sheath (349)
Nordstrom : Xscape Sequin Trim Chiffon Overlay Jersey Sheath Dress ($179) / Pisarro Nights Sequin Blouson Cocktail Dress ($218) / London Times Shimmer Shutter Pleat & Lace Dress ($98) / J Kara Embellished Handkerchief Hem Cocktail Dress ($248)
Nordstrom : Donna Morgan ‘Rhea’ One-Shoulder Chiffon Dress ($240) / Adrianna Papell Lace Overlay Sheath Dress ($188) / Marina Mixed Lace Sheath Dress ($159) / Pisarro Nights ‘Lace Tiers’ Embellished Cocktail Sheath Dress ($178)
“Semi Formal or Dressy Casual Wedding Dress Code”
Semi Formal means Somewhere between Formal and Casual
The event suggests for a dressed-up version of casual look. Meaning, you could think between a dress in casual fabrics like cotton or knits but with a formal cut, or formal fabrics like satin in a casual style.
Women should wear : A cocktail dress, a formal knee-length dress, or a smart, dressy separates (pants or skirt, and top)
Men should wear : a suit, a sport coat, and tie
Note: remember that semi-formal also means you need to figure out what to wear based on the time of the event. Wear darker, more formal and rich colors for an evening wedding, and opt for light colors and fabrics for a daytime event.
IGIGI : Dominique Plus Size Dress in Orchid Fantasy ($128) / Isla Plus Size Dress in Bronzed Jungle Fever ($138) / Soleil Plus Size Dress in Mulberry ($138) / Adelle Plus Size Dress in Indigo Dot ($168)
Kiyonna : Essential Wrap Dress ($108) / Tiers of Joy Lace Dress ($132) / Whimsy Wrap Dress ($98) / Vintage Dream Cocktail Dress ($148)
Macy’s : Anne Klein Three-Quarter-Sleeve Printed Sheath ($129) / Ralph Lauren Printed Flutter-Sleeve Dress ($100) / ING Textured A-Line Dress ($69) / Connected Printed Faux-Wrap Dress ($79)
Macy’s : NY Collection Sleeveless Flare Dress ($69) / INC International Concepts Floral-Print A-Line Dress ($130) / MSK Sequin Floral-Print Sheath and Jacket ($89) / Lucky Brand Sleeveless Printed Maxi Dress ($99)
Nordstrom : Gabby Skye Floral Print Fit & Flare Dress ($98) / Komarov Print Keyhole Neckline Dress ($310) / Taylor Dresses Floral V-Neck Fit & Flare Dress ($168) / Adrianna Papell Embellished Seam Detail Jacquard Sheath Dress ($180)
Tadashi Shoji : Neoprene and Lace Cap Sleeve Dress ($388) / Passementerie Seashell Embroidered Tulle Sheath ($428) / Embroidered Lace Blouson Waist Dress ($388) / Embroidered Tulle and Pleated Tulle Boatneck Dress ($448)
“Festive Attire Wedding Dress Code”
Festive Attire means Dressy and Trendy
This means you are given the go-ahead to have fun and play with your look. Think shine, color, bold jewelry, and sparkly details, as well as cute shoes, beaded clutch, and vibrant dress, and you’re all set for the wedding.
Women should wear : Different types of cocktail dress or party dress in bold, fun, and colorful designs.
Men should wear : A suit and tie in playful vibe (a velvet blazer, or a classic suit with a fun tie) or a nice cashmere sweater or silk shirt and slacks
Note: Although you are allowed to have fun with your look, remember to always show respect to the couple. Wear something appropriate. Think of a balanced look and never overdo the bride. You can look sexy and flirty, but you don’t want to look like you’re on your way to the night club. If you opt for a super bold and vibrant dress, make sure other guests also dress in exactly the same boldness as yours.
ASOS : ASOS CURVE Premium Floral Peplum Hem Dress ($93.50) / Truly You Floral Plunge Midi Dress ($134) / Little Mistress Plus Lace Shift Dress ($98) / ASOS CURVE Exclusive Bandeau Peplum Dress with Printed Bodice ($68.50)
ASOS : Chi Chi London Plus Falling Floral Plunge Neck Prom Dress ($111) / Chi Chi London Plus Lace Bandeau Prom Dress ($106) / Lipstick Boutique Plus Lace Bodice Skater Dress ($117) / ASOS CURVE Fit & Flare Dress With Inserts In Mono ($86)
Eloquii : Petal Neckline Peplum Dress ($149.90) / Gabrielle Dress ($99.90) / Ruffle Sleeve Jumpsuit ($129.90) / Sophia Dress ($99.90)
Fashion to Figure : Watercolor Draped Dress ($42.50) / Wildflower Floral Wrap Dress ($40.50) / Oasis Tropical Print Dress ($39.50) / Paradise Tropical Print Dress ($38.50)
IGIGI : Lindsey Plus Size Dress in Hibiscus Cove ($118) / Adelle Plus Size Dress in Cobalt Beatnik ($168) / Corina Plus Size Dress in Aqua Tropics ($118)
Lanebryant : 6th & Lane Cutout Sheath Dress ($109) / Control Tech Portrait Neck Dress ($149.95) / 6th & Lane Printed Cut Out Dress ($119) / Floral Fit & Flare Dress ($79.95)
Macy’s : SL Fashions Metallic Lace Ribbon-Belt Dress ($109) / SL Fashions Floral-Print Tiered Dress ($89) / SL Fashions Beaded Cutout-Front Tiered Shift ($109) / Modamix Printed Scuba Dress ($119)
Nordstrom : Adrianna Papell Rose Print Jacquard Fit & Flare Dress ($180) / Gabby Skye Two-Piece Sleeveless Scuba Knit Dress ($108) / Gabby Skye Floral Print Scuba Knit Fit & Flare Dress ($108) / Eliza J Stripe Fit & Flare Dress with Dot Mesh Overlay ($188)
Tadashi Shoji : Starfish Embroidered Tulle Sleeveless Shirtwaist Dress ($548) / Corded Lace Spacer Mesh Fit and Flare Dress ($428) / Ombre Lace Cap Sleeve Cocktail Dress ($408) / Embroidered Lace V-Neck A-Line Dress ($388)
“Beach Formal Wedding Dress Code”
Beach Wedding means Easy, Relaxed and Breezy
Depending on the formality of the wedding, you can opt for a formal beach maxi dress for a formal affair, or go more casual with short sundress or light tunic dress for the casual one. Choose vibrant and light colors instead of neutrals. Play up with dazzling, statement accessories
Women should wear : A comfortable beach maxi, a formal summer sundress, or a cute summer shift with a splash of bright details such as beads, stones, or embroideries.
Men should wear : An elegant linen, or crisp cotton shirt, a summer suit or sport blazer in a madras or seersucker or linen. Add a tropical printed tie for a more formal look, or wear sandals for the casual one.
Note: Keep in mind that beach wedding means it is an outdoor event, and anything can happen with the weather. Learn “Wedding Guest Attire: What to Wear to a Wedding (Part 3)” to know more about wedding guest tips for an outdoor venue.
Plus Size Formal Beach Wedding Guest Dress Ideas
ASOS : Lovedrobe Embellished V-Neck Maxi Dress ($160) / Little Mistress Plus Embellished Halter Neck Maxi Dress ($134) / Little Mistress Plus Embellished Halter Neck Maxi Dress ($119) / Little Mistress Plus Floral Placement Maxi Dress ($134)
Formal Beach Wedding Guest Dresses for Curvy Women
Avenue : Orange Starburst Maxi Dress ($60) / Pink Watercolor Bandage Tiered Maxi Dress ($69) / Tonal Leaf Maxi Dress ($60)
Plus Size Beach Wedding Guest Attire
Lanebryant : Strapless Printed Jumpsuit ($79.95) / Floral Maxi Dress with Asymmetric Hem ($89.95) / Cross Back Maxi Dress ($79.95) / Pop Print Pleated Maxi Dress ($89.95)
Plus Size Beach Wedding Guest Maxi Dresses
Macy’s : NY Collection Twist-Front Printed Maxi Dress ($69) / ING Sleeveless Surplice Maxi Dress ($69) / Jessica Simpson Marta Printed Maxi Dress ($89) / Trixxi Halter Embellished Gown ($129)
Plus Size Casual Beach Wedding Guest Dress Ideas
Macy’s : INC International Concepts Printed Keyhole Maxi Dress ($110) / Calvin Klein Printed Zipper-Trim Flare Dress ($98) / Stevie and Lindsay Surplice Printed Maxi Dress ($54) / Love Squared Sleeveless Printed Sheath Dress ($59)
Beach Wedding Guest Maxi Dresses for Curvy Women
Nordstrom : FELICITY & COCO Multi Stripe Crêpe de Chine Maxi Dress ($118) / Vince Camuto Leopard Print Sleeveless Maxi Dress ($140) / FELICITY & COCO Lace Back Maxi Dress ($118) / Eliza J Scarf Print Cutaway Shoulder Maxi Dress ($168)
2015 Plus Size Beach Wedding Guest Dress
Torrid : Hi-Lo Lace Tank Dress ($68.50) / Lace Maxi Tank Dress ($68.50) / Tie-Dye Chiffon Maxi Dress ($68.50) / Leopard Asymmetrical Chiffon Dress ($64.50)
“Casual Wedding Dress Code”
Casual Wedding means Relaxed but Polished
How casual is appropriate for the guests when dressing for a casual wedding basically based on where the event is held. The venue may help you better determine the level of formality. But if you have no single clue of the wedding you’re going to attend, it’s best to keep to the safe side and aim for Business Casual.
Women should wear : An easy shift dress, a sundress, a skirt with pretty top, a dress romper – but nothing too shorts, or a nice pair of tailored pants with a light cardigan
Men should wear : A dress pants with a polo or button-down shirt
Plus Size Casual Wedding Guest Dress Ideas
Fashion to Figure : Tied Up Knot Maxi Dress ($39.50) / Short Sleeve Stripe Belted Tunic ($38.50) / Isabella Flare Lace Dress ($42.50) / Denim and Lace Flare Dress ($40.50)
Plus Size Casual Wedding Guest Attire
IGIGI : Dayna Plus Size Top in Violet Haze ($68) / Ally Midi Dress in Raven Daisy ($128) / Loretta Plus Size Skirt in Fresh Bouquet ($78) / Brittany Plus Size Dress in Bold Azure ($128)
Plus Size Casual Look Wedding Guest Dress
Macy’s : Spense Sleeveless Faux-Wrap Dress ($89) / Stevie and Lindsay Colorblocked Printed Flare Dress ($49) / NY Collection Brushstroke-Print Flare Dress ($69) / NY Collection Sleeveless Ponte-Knit Colorblocked A-Line Dress ($69)
Casual Wedding Guest Dress for Curvy Women
Nordstrom : Eliza J Elbow Sleeve Shift Dress ($128) / Vince Camuto Contrast Yoke Ombré Print Sheath Dress ($154) / Tahari Embellished Keyhole Print Crêpe de Chine Shift Dress ($148)
Plus Size Garden Wedding Guest Dress
SWAK designs : Whitney Jersey Dress ($69.90) / Harlow Lace Dress ($79.90) / April Dress ($49.90) / Karlena Dress ($59.90)