Weddings are like a joyful, picture-perfect day where everyone brings their best version of themselves—and what you wear says a lot about how you celebrate that magic. 

If the invitation calls for formal wedding outfits, you’ve got the chance to dress up and really look the part. Whether it’s a glamorous evening gathering or a stunning daytime affair, the right outfit hits that sweet spot of looking polished but not stuffy. 

Getting it right can sometimes feel like walking a fine line, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with everything from outfit ideas to what to steer clear of so you don’t accidentally steal the show for all the wrong reasons.

What Exactly Are Formal Wedding Outfits?

To put it simply, formal wedding outfits are the dressier cousins of your semi-formal or casual clothes. Think clean lines, rich fabrics, and details that say you’re taking this seriously without going overboard. 

• For women, it might mean an eye-catching gown, an elegant cocktail dress, or even a sleek pantsuit that feels as chic as it does effortless. 
• For men, formal wedding outfits for men are all about smart tailoring—imagine suits, tuxedos, or that sharp three-piece look that feels just as put-together as the day itself.

At the heart of it all, a great formal outfit makes you feel confident, like you’re part of something special while still letting the wedding shine.

Formal Wedding Guest Outfits for Women

Finding that just-right formal outfit for a wedding doesn’t have to mean digging through endless racks of dresses. Here are five options we absolutely love for their blend of comfort, style, and wow-factor.

Floor-Length Gowns 

Nothing screams timeless and elegant quite like a floor-length gown, especially if the celebration stretches into the evening hours. Think flowing fabrics like satin that move when you do or chiffon that catches just enough light to make you glow. 

Jewel tones—like emerald, deep sapphire, or a moody burgundy—never fail to look luxurious. Trust us, paired with some strappy heels and a sleek clutch, you’ll feel like you’re walking the red carpet.

Cocktail Dresses

 

Not every formal event demands a gown, and that’s where the cocktail dress comes in as the perfect in-between. Pick one with soft, romantic hues like champagne or blush, and let the details do the talking—think subtle embroidery, a hint of sparkle, or a bit of lace. 

It’s polished without looking like you tried too hard, and a pair of classic heels keeps the whole look sleek and understated.

Dressy Pantsuits

For anyone who isn’t into dresses, a dressy pantsuit might just be your new best friend. The key is to pick one that’s fitted to perfection—no sloppy silhouettes allowed here. 

Fabrics like crepe or silky blends give it that slightly more luxurious feel, and colors like midnight blue or deep forest green strike the right mix of bold and classy. Add pointed-toe heels and a clutch, and you’ve got a look that’s every bit as commanding as it is chic.

A-Line Midi Dresses

The A-line midi dress is your secret weapon for daytime weddings. It’s ladylike but never boring, with flattering lines and just enough detail—maybe some lace trim, a structured bodice, or a slightly flared skirt. 

You’re still playing in formal territory but without any of the fuss of a full-length gown. Add simple heels and a delicate handbag, and you’ll be comfortable without skimping on style.

Statement Jumpsuits

If you love a modern, head-turning look, a statement jumpsuit might be your ticket to wedding guest success. Think clean lines, solid colors like black or rich crimson, and wide-leg silhouettes that look equal parts comfortable and runway-ready. 

The trick? Keep your accessories sharp—metallic heels, bold earrings, and a slick clutch will make sure you look fresh and unforgettable.

Formal Wedding Guest Outfits for Men

Gentlemen, this is your time to shine. Forget boring rentals or ill-fitting suits—these outfit ideas are smart, stylish, and exactly what a formal occasion calls for.

Classic Suits

If you don’t want to overthink it, a classic suit in navy, charcoal, or black will always have your back. Pair it with a white dress shirt, a silk tie in a complementary color, and leather dress shoes that actually look polished (not scuffed up from last year’s party). 

For a little personality, tuck a patterned pocket square in your breast pocket—it’s a small move that makes a big difference.

Tuxedos

Some weddings call for serious style—cue the tuxedo. This isn’t just any suit; it’s a step up, with sharp lines and luxe details. 

Go classic with a black tux, a crisp white shirt, and a bow tie, and finish with glossy patent leather shoes. Trust us, there’s no way you’re blending into the background in this look.

Three-Piece Suits

Want to add a little extra oomph to your formalwear? A three-piece suit with a matching vest is the way to go. It’s still clean and formal but has that extra layer that says you know exactly what you’re doing. 

Stick to darker colors like charcoal or navy, and finish with a tie, pocket square, and leather shoes. It’s hard to beat this level of classic style.

Velvet Blazers

If you’re feeling bold (and the wedding allows for it), a velvet blazer brings luxury into the mix. Stick with dark, rich shades like deep green or burgundy to keep it classy. 

Pair the blazer with tailored trousers, a white dress shirt, and a pair of polished shoes. It’s dressy enough for a formal event but still has a little flair.

Double-Breasted Suits

For guys who like their outfits to have structure and presence, a double-breasted suit does exactly that. It’s sharp, bold, and just a little different from the standard suit. 

Keep it simple with solid colors, add a clean tie or bow tie, and finish with leather Oxfords for a look that’s seriously put-together.

Dos and Don'ts of Formal Wedding Guest Attire

Some rules are meant to be broken, but these aren’t those. Here’s what to do (and avoid) to look great without stepping on anyone’s toes:

Do:

• Stick to the dress code—no exceptions.
• Choose clothes that fit you well and feel expensive, even if they’re not.
• Use accessories to add a little personality without going overboard.

Don’t:

• Show up in white. Seriously—that’s the bride’s color.
• Wear anything too casual, like sneakers or jeans. Even if the couple seems laid-back, it’s still a wedding.
• Pick anything too flashy or revealing—it’s a celebration, not a fashion competition.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Formal Wedding Look?

Finding an outfit for a formal wedding doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Whether you’re picking out a jaw-dropping gown or a suit that fits like a glove, it’s all about celebrating the couple’s big day while feeling confident and comfortable.

At BALTINI, we’re here to make that choice easy. We’ve got all the luxury formalwear you could ever want—for both men and women—at prices that won’t leave your wallet hurting. With free shipping worldwide and our promise that everything is 100% authentic, shopping with us means you’re getting the real deal, every time.

So, what are you waiting for? Browse our collection, find your perfect look, and get ready to celebrate in style. We’ll make sure you look incredible.