What does these mean....

Ok So I am having to choose what type of guest attire to select but have no clue what all there mean.
formal semi-formal black tie
black tie optional
cocktail attire casual attire please

I think I got the formal...kinda like going to the prom right?

Re: What does these mean....

Black tie optional means your guests can wear a tuxedo and not feel out of place, but that they are not obligated to.

Cocktail attire implies that the women probably shouldn't wear long gowns, but I'm not sure about the men in that case - probably suits.

Casual attire sounds to me like a very informal wedding, maybe women in skirts, men w/o a jacket and tie?

Usually I only see info about black tie on invitations, such as Black tie, black tie optional, black tie preferred, etc.

Re: What does these mean....

anybody else know?? I am curious myself lol
what should I put??

Re: What does these mean....

If the Invitation says 'Black Tie'
It is generally accepted that 'Black Tie' requires formal attire. Take advantage of this opportunity to truly look and feel your very best in a tuxedo. Today, 'Black Tie' means formal attire, not specifically to wear a black tie.

If the Invitation says 'White Tie' or 'Full Dress'
You can step into the glittering special occasion looking dashing and proper in a traditional tailcoat. Wear a white wing collar shirt, a white pique vest, white tie, and black trousers accented by the formal satin stripe. Complete your outfit with patent shoes.

If the Invitation says 'Black Tie Preferred'
Indicates that the host prefers guests to wear formal evening attire to the special occasion. Black Tuxedo, White Dinner Jacket (mid-April through Labor Day) or a dark contemporary style tuxedo are acceptable (no Tailcoats). Non-formal Dress Suits are also acceptable, but not preferred by the host.

If the Invitation says 'Black Tie Optional'
Is not as strong a statement for formal attire as 'Black Tie' or 'Black Tie Preferred,' yet formal dress is wholly appropriate and acceptable. Styles may include Black Tuxedo, White Dinner Jacket (mid-April through Labor Day) or a dark contemporary style Tuxedo (no Tailcoats).

If the Invitation says 'Black Tie Invited'
Is a phrase appearing more frequently than 'preferred' or 'optional.' It is usually in the context of large gatherings of civic or business groups, such as a dinner sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. It states that gentlemen attending are welcome to dress in formal attire if they would like, but it is not required. Styles for these affairs are the same as for 'Black Tie Optional.'

If the Invitation says 'Semi-Formal'
In strict and very proper social circles, 'Semi-Formal' means 'Black Tie.' However, today, if a host wants his guests to wear Black Tuxedos, he will generally use the phrase 'Black Tie Event.' 'Semi-Formal' allows any style of Tuxedo or Dinner Jacket. This is where knowledge of your local community, common sense and good taste come into play. For example, it would be more appropriate to dress formally if the invitation were to a dinner party at the local country club than if it were to a dance celebrating a local college football victory. As a general rule, if a lady wears a floor-length gown, it is appropriate for her escort to wear formal attire. If you are ever unsure about how to dress, call the host or hostess for guidance in dressing for the special occasion.

Re: What does these mean....

Wedding guest style for her

Informal Daytime: Short dress or suit (business attire OK for morning weddings)
Informal Evening: Cocktail dress
Semi-Formal Daytime: Short dress or suit
Semi-formal Evening: Cocktail dress
Formal Daytime: Short dress or suit.
Hats and gloves optional.
Formal Evening or Black-Tie: Long or dressy short cocktail (beading, glam accessories, wrap)
Ultra-formal or White Tie: Long gown, extra glitz (furs, diamonds, etc.)

Do's and Don'ts for Her
Don't wear white because it competes with the bride. There are plenty of other colors available.
Don't wear black or sequins during the daytime.
Don't worry about wearing the same colors as the bridesmaids or mothers. You can't possibly coordinate with everyone in the wedding party.
Do wear something feminine and appropriate, out of respect for your hosts. Clubwear, overtly sexy clothing (strapless, see-through, etc) doesn't belong at a wedding. If you have to ask if it's appropriate, it probably isn't.
Don't wear opera-length gloves (to top of arm) with anything but sleeveless or strapless gowns.
Do take off gloves to eat or drink.
Do use good judgment if the invitation doesn't specify the formality of the event. A pastel suit or soft floral dress for daytime or a little black dress for evening (after 6 p.m.) will take you almost anywhere.

Wedding Style for him

Informal Daytime: Dress shirt and pants, preferably a sports jacket.
Informal Evening: Suit
Semi-Formal Daytime: Suit
Semi-Formal Evening: Dark suit
Formal Daytime: Dark suit and tie
Formal Evening: Tuxedo (if invitation states 'black tie') or dark suits if women wear short dresses.
Ultra-formal Evening or White Tie: White tie, cummerbund, vest and shirt.


Do's and Don'ts for Him

Don't try to get cute with a tuxedo. A black tux with white shirt and black bow tie is the best way to go. If 'Creative Black Tie' or 'Texas Formal' or some sort of other vague formal description is used, then going with a tux and black shirt, no tie, might be acceptable. Also, trendier cities like Los Angeles and New York might be more accepting of breaking with tradition.
Do wear a dark suit, with a tie if the wedding is after 6 PM, and doesn't say 'Black Tie.'
Don't wear a tuxedo during the day time, regardless of the formality of the event.
Do use good judgment if the invitation doesn't specify the formality of the event. A dark suit and conservative tie will take you just about anywhere.

Re: What does these mean....

It seems to me, it depends on the formality of your wedding...

If you, FH & bridal party are dressed to the nines, then cocktail attire is a must..

If your going for a more informal look, then your guests should too..

I'd also take into consideration, day, time and location...

If your getting married, at 1:30 on the beach, it's def casual wear..

If your getting married and having a reception in a hall, you would want a more dressy look, ie: cocktail attire, not super dressy, not super casual..

Cocktail attire is probably the safest thing to put. JMO

:)

Re: What does these mean....

Thank you I think you have covered all the bases!!