Weddings are such special events for couples and their friends and families that it's no wonder guests put so much thought and consideration into what to wear.
If you're going to a wedding this year, check out these tips and etiquette guide for how to dress for a variety of wedding occasions. With these pointers, you're sure to show up in a style that fits the scene, and you'll look and feel great on your side of the aisle.
While new formalwear gets expensive quickly, here are four complete wedding looks we thrifted for under $30!
Beach Wedding
For a destination wedding on a beautiful beach, we recommend wearing a knee-length dress in a bright color, pretty pattern or neutral tone that will not drape through the sand. A pair of strappy dressy sandals, buffered heels and a cute pedicure are also musts. Layer your look with an overthrow, poncho, kimono or flowy scarf in case it gets chilly.
To avoid beauty faux pas brought on by the wind, temperature and sun, consider an updo hairstyle and a natural makeup plan.
100% linen dress: $5.99
Knit overthrow: $3.49 (50% off)
Fashion earrings: $2.99
Sandals: $3.99 (50% off)
Total look: $16.46
Outdoor Wedding "Casual"
Going to a wedding on a farm, in the woods, garden or lakeside? For most outdoor weddings, casual attire can be worn unless otherwise specified on the invite.
A good rule of thumb to go by is would you be comfortable wearing it in a business setting? Another thing to consider is the season and weather forecast. For spring and summer weddings, bright or pastel-colored attire is very fitting. For fall and winter weddings, deep hues are more appropriate.
Casual weddings are warm and welcoming in nature, and you're likely to get in no matter what you wear. However, still plan to wear a step up from what you'd typically throw on. So, ladies, swap in a pair of slacks or cute palazzo pants instead of jeans. Or maybe consider a maxi or high-waist dress with a jacket and pair of flats or cute leather booties.
For guys, a button-up shirt or sweater and khakis is the perfect ratio of style to comfort. Swap out your work boots for a pair of slip-ons or leather sandals to complete the look.
Lace dress: $3.49 (50% off)
Jean jacket: $9.99
Leather booties: $4.99
Cummerbund (new tags): $1.99
Total look: $20.46
Semi-Formal Wedding "Black Tie"
A semi-formal wedding invite is an opportunity to get dressed up. These are more formal affairs that call for longer dresses for women and suits for men.
Ladies, you might slip into a sleek cocktail dress or a maxi dress dolled up with a pair of serious heels. Not into dresses? Not a problem! Dressy separates with a big heel, like this thrifted outfit, also would be a beautiful option.
Now let's talk accessories. First, for the women wearing dresses, plan on picking up some nylons and a slip. Second, don't be afraid to shimmer a little at this event. Get out your sparkly pendant, diamond earrings, glittery scarf or metallic purse. Just remember that taste is everything, and less is more.
For the gallant gents, consider a dark suit that can be worn with or without a tie. And the winning detail -- make sure your socks match your shoes!
Floral dress: $5.99
H&M pants: $5.99
Pashmina scarf: $1.99
Necklace: $3.99
Fashion earrings: $2.99
Beige heels: $7.99
Total look: $28.94
Formal Wedding "White Tie"
Very few weddings will require guests to wear formal attire, but this is an occasion where tradition and extreme fashion are embraced.
For women, just think a step up from semi-formal. Your long dress might be a grand ballgown or one that makes a sweeping statement. You can't sparkle enough at a formal event, so turn up your accessories to a new level: dashing earrings, adorning necklaces, blinding rings and a crowd-stopping hand purse.
A shoulder cover is appropriate, too, in this scene. Consider wearing an elegant shrug, a scarf of fine fabric or a fur shoulder wrap if it's a winter wedding.
For gentlemen, the white-tie traditional look includes a rented tailcoat, a white starched button-up shirt with cufflinks, a white bowtie, and black patent leather shoes with black laces.
Purple lace dress (new tags on): $8.99
Pink scarf: $1.99
Jewelry belt: $9.99
Blue heels: $5.99
Fashion earrings: $2.99
Total look: $29.95
