Choosing a wedding dress code is key to defining the vibe and style of your special day. It also helps your guests know what to expect (and perhaps gives them peace of mind), since there will be little guesswork as they prepare for your big celebration. Struggling a bit to envision how your dress code will fit in with the overall theme of the ceremony and reception? Look no further! The experts at WKF Weddings are excited to share our savvy style guide, offering insights on how to pair the perfect florals with your wedding dress code to create a stunning, cohesive look.
White-Tie or Full-Dress
A white-tie (also called full-dress) wedding is the height of elegance and grandeur. Ladies, think opulent, floor-length dresses that make you feel like a queen, accessorized with glittering jewelry. Gentlemen, it’s time to step up in tuxedos with tails complemented by vests, bowties, and white shirts — the more sophisticated, the better! The venue will be transformed with florals fit for a royal affair, featuring white hydrangeas, roses, or flowers seen at your fave royal wedding: hyacinth, sweet peas, orchids, freesia, gardenias, ivy, Veronica, lily of the valley, and the majestic myrtle.
Black-Tie
Black-tie weddings, while more common than white-tie affairs, maintain an air of refined sophistication. Women should dress to impress in elegant floor-length gowns or stylish pantsuits, suited to the venue’s vibe. Men, opt for a tuxedo without tails paired with a bowtie (though a sleek black tie will do the trick). This dress code’s modern edge invites floral designs that blend elegance with a fresh twist. Envision tall centerpieces overflowing with lush hydrangeas, classic roses, ultra-romantic peonies, or sleek calla lilies in gold vases, perfectly complementing the posh and contemporary atmosphere.
Formal or Black-Tie Optional
With a formal or black-tie optional dress code, your guests will enjoy the flexibility to dress in what makes them feel comfortable and stylish. Women can dazzle in elegant floor-length gowns or opt for a fabulous cocktail dress. Men can don a formal tuxedo or pair black dress pants with a sharp dinner jacket — note that a white jacket is a nice touch for a summer wedding. Floral arrangements should be breathtaking, especially during the ceremony. While classic favorites like peonies and roses never fail, don’t hesitate to incorporate unique stems like anemones, protea, and rich greenery to add texture and create a striking visual contrast.
Cocktail
Cocktail attire is a popular choice for many weddings, offering a chic yet comfortable dress code. Ladies, you’ll dazzle in tea-length, knee-length, or midi cocktail dresses, while gents will look their best in sharp suits and ties. Flowers should be timeless and beloved: consider ranunculus, roses, and peonies as your go-to blossoms. Complement them with plenty of lush greenery and a vibrant, seasonal color palette to ensure the atmosphere is fresh and lively. Think bright, cheerful shades for a summer wedding or warm, cozy colors for an autumn celebration to capture the festive spirit.
Semi-Formal or Dressy-Casual
Choosing a dressy-casual or semi-formal dress code sets the tone, and your wedding venue will further help guests pick the perfect attire. Darker hues are ideal for evening weddings, while lighter colors work beautifully for daytime ceremonies. Women might go for midi dresses, stylish skirts, or elegant pantsuits, while men can opt for dress shirts and smart slacks, with a tie or without. This approach makes sure everyone feels comfortable, self-assured, and amped for a stylish celebration. Your floral arrangements should reflect the vibe and venue, showcasing your personal style. This gives you the freedom to select a variety of blooms, from beloved classics to the most creative floral choices.
Festive
Innovative and lovely, a festive dress code encourages guests to embrace bold colors, visually-interesting patterns, and rich textures. Picture cocktail attire with a twist, featuring bright, playful accessories — from pocket squares and bowties to shoes and jewelry. Your flower arrangements should be just as spirited, with colorful, bold blooms with fun textures. Protea, anthuriums, protea, and dramatic palm leaves will transform your wedding into a real celebration. These lush arrangements exude excitement and fun, matching the festive atmosphere to a tee.
Casual
Casual wedding attire never includes flip-flops, jeans, or shorts — major faux pas! Instead, ladies should wear flowing, pretty sundresses with formal sandals, and gentlemen should go for nice slacks or khakis paired with collared shirts (optional: ties and jackets). Floral arrangements for a “casual” wedding usually embrace a boho or chic country style. Think wildflower arrangements accented with pampas grass, dainty baby’s breath, and other whimsical touches that create an organic, laid-back ambiance.
Join forces with the experts at WKF Weddings to seamlessly pair your wedding dress code of choice perfectly with breathtaking floral designs, bringing the wedding of your dreams to life!