What to wear for a wedding evening reception
Weddings are joyous occasions that celebrate love, unity and, of course, style. The evening reception is a particularly vibrant occasion – all the pressure is off the couple, and everyone can relax, dance, eat and drink with a party vibe. It’s also an opportunity for well-dressed men to truly shine.
It’s possible that the wedding itself was a small, intimate affair, and you’ve only been invited to the evening event. Your attire should exude sophistication while remaining comfortable enough to fully enjoy the festivities. In this guide, you’ll learn how to dress impeccably for a wedding evening reception. If you’ve attended the whole event, however, you’ll be fine the traditional wedding suit that you’ve had on all day, even if the couple change into something more relaxing later on.
Understanding the dress code
First things first – is there a dress code? Weddings often feature dress codes, be it black tie, cocktail, semi-formal or such like. A black-tie affair means a classic tuxedo with all the trimmings. Cocktail or semi-formal events give you a bit more flexibility, but you’re usually best off going for a dark suit with a stylish cut.
It’s just as likely nowadays that there won’t be a dress code at all. This gives you maximum options, so follow the guide to master the details.
Core essentials
Here, we’ll look at those basics of wedding attire that will stand you in good stead, even if you choose not to accessorise.
The suit
Opt for a suit that resonates with both the occasion and the season. Wool suits in darker hues such as navy, charcoal or black are ideal for evening receptions and add a touch of formality. If the event is in the summer, especially if it’s in a marquee or a stately home with gardens, feel free to lighten the mood with a cream, light grey or blue suit. Ensure your suit is tailored to perfection, as a perfect fit sets off your entire look.
The shirt
Your shirt should complement your suit while adding a layer of sophistication. A beautifully pressed white shirt will always be a fail-safe option for most dress codes, and it’ll go with any suit, as long as you wear a complementary tie.
That said, subtle patterns or soft pastel hues can also be cool choices. The golden rule is that a plain shirt goes with a patterned suit, and a patterned shirt should be worn with a plain suit. So if you’re going for the tweedy look at the wedding, stick with a plain shirt, although a slight colour – or even black – can work wonders, especially if it’s a grey tweed.
Footwear
Your shoes can make or break your outfit. Classic loafers in black or dark brown are fine choices for evening weddings. Ensure they’re polished and in good condition to round off your ensemble. Don’t rule out boots, especially if you’re wearing straight trousers or tweed. They can give off a look that’s just on the formal side of rugged, as long as they’re polished and laced beautifully.
Accessorising smartly
Basics are basics – you’re setting the minimum standards of dress, so you risk looking like every other guy at the party. Now it’s time to add a few flourishes that emit a little personality and style.
Ties and bow ties
Select a tie or bow tie that harmonises with the overall colour palette of your outfit. Silk ties with subtle patterns add depth, whereas solid colours are always understated and sophisticated. Black tie events require a black bow tie, so make sure you know how to tie it properly. If it’s a regular necktie, experiment with more interesting knots than the basic four-in-hand.
Pocket squares
A pocket square adds a dash of personality without overwhelming your look. White linen offers classic sophistication, while silk options in complementary colours or patterns can inject some flair. Needless to say, your pocket square should match your tie, so it’s probably best to buy them together – any slight differences in hue would stand out a mile off. Try a few folding techniques to keep it stylish yet understated.
Watch
A slim, elegant watch can give your outfit a sense of opulence and (ironically) timelessness. Ditch the smart watch and avoid overly large or sport watches, as they detract from the formal aesthetic. Opt for a timepiece with a leather strap in brown or black to match your shoes and belt – do you have a hand-me-down from when watches were treasured items of jewellery? Now’s the time to strap it on. Who cares if it gains a minute every hour?
Cufflinks
Cufflinks make for beautiful finishing touches for your ensemble. Simple designs in silver or gold are versatile options, while those with subtle detailing provide a touch of uniqueness that people will notice when you’re hob-nobbing. Ensure they match other metal accents in your attire, such as your watch or belt buckle.
