It’s wedding season in Australia, and you’ve been invited to a special celebration. As you search for the perfect outfit, you may be wondering what to wear to an Australian wedding. Do you go for a more traditional look or something more modern? Should you opt for something formal or informal?
Worry no more! This comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect outfit for any Australian wedding so you can look your best and feel your best on the big day. From classic looks to more contemporary styles, you’re sure to find something that will make you look and feel your best.
What is the appropriate attire for an Australian wedding?
When you’re invited to an Australian wedding, you’ll typically find the dress code on the invitation. Wedding dress codes are used to indicate the appropriate attire for each guest. There are two main wedding dress codes in Australia: formal wear and informal wear. If the wedding dress code is formal, guests are expected to wear long, formal dresses or suits.
Alternatively, if the wedding dress code is informal, guests may wear either long or short dresses or suits. Other dress codes are less common, such as semiformal and casual, but you can always ask the hosts about the dress code if you are unsure. Formal weddings are typically black-tie, garden/outdoor weddings are typically casual or semiformal, and beach weddings are typically informal.
Formal vs. Informal Styles
There are different styles of formal and informal wedding gowns, which determine the level of formality. Formal gowns are typically more dressy and have more embellishments and gold or silver detailing. These gowns often have a more structured or fitted silhouette. Simplicity is key with informal wedding gowns, which are often made from lace or silk. These gowns often have a looser, more ethereal, or flowy silhouette you can also wear a trouser underneath the gown.
Popular wedding dress codes
There are a variety of wedding dress codes for different dress styles. Here are some of the most popular ones.
- Ballgown – A long, full gown with highly embellished bodice and a tulle skirt.
- Bridal dress – A long, formal dress worn by the bride on her wedding day.
- Cocktail dress – A long or short dress worn to cocktail parties or black-tie events.
- Column gown – A long gown with a fitted bodice and flowing skirt.
- Column dress – A long, column-shaped dress with a fitted bodice and flowing skirt.
- Column gown with train – A long, column-shaped gown with a fitted bodice and a full skirt.
- Column dress with train – A long, column-shaped dress with a fitted bodice and a full skirt.
- Evening gown – A long or short dress worn to evening events or black-tie events.
- Evening dress – A long or short dress worn to evening events or black-tie events.
- Evening suit – A long or short suit worn to evening events or black-tie events.
- Full-length gown – A long gown that extends below the ankles.
- Sheath gown – A long gown with a fitted bodice and a straight skirt.
- Sheath dress – A long dress with a fitted bodice and straight skirt.
- Tea-length gown – A short dress that ends above the ankle.
What to wear to a beach wedding
In Australia, a beach wedding is typically informal. You can wear a casual, summery dress, a one-piece swimsuit, or a dress that can easily transition from the beach to a reception. A knee-length dress in a lightweight fabric, such as chiffon or crepe, is a classic choice that will keep you comfortable on a hot summer day.
You can also wear a long, flowy maxi dress. If you want to incorporate the beach theme, you can wear a dress with a tropical print. You can add a touch of glamour to your look with sparkling accessories, such as a statement necklace or earrings. For cooler weather, you can wear a tulip-skirt sundress. You can also wear a maxi skirt, a long blazer with a lightweight scarf, or a jacket with a statement necklace.
What to wear to a garden/outdoor wedding
If your wedding is held outside, it’s typically casual or semiformal. You can wear a short, cocktail-length dress, a knee-length dress, or a long dress with an above-the-knee hemline. You can also wear a long tunic or maxi dress. You can accessorize with a statement necklace, a stylish bag, or fun shoes.
You can also wear a long cardigan or blazer with above-the-knee dress pants or a full-length dress. You can also wear a long coat with a bust-friendly top or a shawl collar coat. For cooler weather, you can wear a long coat, a sweater or cardigan, or a shawl. You can also wear a long maxi skirt or a long dress.
What to wear to a black-tie wedding
Black-tie weddings are typically formal and require guests to wear long formal dresses or suits. If you are attending a black-tie wedding, you’ll want to make sure you have a full-length gown (preferably with an above-the-knee hemline) that is both elegant and appropriate for the occasion.
You can wear many types of fabrics for a formal black-tie wedding, but satin, silk, and velvet are classic choices. You can also wear a classic column-shaped gown or a mermaid-shaped gown. You can accessorize with elegant shoes, a sparkly clutch, and a gold or silver bracelet.
What to wear to a semi-formal wedding
A semi-formal wedding is typically informal, but guests may be expected to wear long or cocktail-length dresses or suits. At a semi-formal wedding, you want to look stylish while still keeping the event’s relaxed vibe in mind. You can wear a short, knee-length, long, or a long above-the-knee dress.
You can also wear a long maxi dress or a long dress that touches the floor. You can accessorize with a stylish handbag, elegant heels, or a bracelet or watch. You can also wear a long blazer or a long cardigan. For cooler weather, you can wear a long coat, a sweater or cardigan, or a shawl. You can also wear a long maxi skirt or a long dress.
Popular accessories and footwear for an Australian wedding
You can choose from many different accessories for an Australian wedding. For example, you can wear a long strand of pearls, a choker, or a statement necklace. You can also wear earrings, rings, or a bracelet.
You can complete your look with a hat or a fascinator. You can wear a variety of footwear at a wedding. For example, you can wear heeled sandals, wedged sandals, pumps, or a stylish boot. You can also wear a short or knee-length boot.
Tips for shopping for the perfect outfit
When shopping for your outfit, keep a few things in mind. First, make sure the outfit reflects your personality. Second, make sure the outfit is something you feel comfortable and confident in. Finally, remember that the most important part of your outfit is the person wearing it.
You want to look as good as possible, but you also want to make sure you’re not overshadowing the bride. Before you shop, make a detailed list of what you want to wear, how much you’re willing to spend, and what colors, fabrics, and styles you prefer. This will help you save time and money while shopping.
Conclusion
A wedding is a once in a lifetime event, so it’s important to find the perfect outfit. A traditional, formal gown will make you stand out among informal bridesmaids in cocktail dresses. If you want to stand out, you can opt for a long gown in a bold color. Alternatively, if you want to fit in, you can opt for a shorter color that is less attention-grabbing. No matter what you choose, make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful.
