Guest Dress Code Ideas for Your Rehearsal Dinner
By Meghan Ely, OFD Consulting
Black tie, semi-formal, cocktail, smart casual — navigating dress codes can feel like learning another language. When planning a wedding and rehearsal dinner, it’s up to you to communicate expectations with your guests to avoid misunderstandings. Otherwise, your loved ones may arrive overdressed (or underdressed!) and feel uncomfortable during the celebration.
While wedding dress codes tend to fall within standard norms, the rehearsal dinner offers an opportunity to kick back and enjoy a relaxing evening before the hustle and bustle of the big day.
“The rehearsal dinner is usually a more informal occasion,” confirms Greg Carlyle of The Millennium Event Center. “Most keep it dress casual, depending on season and location.”
But Carlyle notes that “the location of the rehearsal dinner is going to be a big indicator for your guests as to what to wear.” So in some cases, you may consider a more formal dress code to align with your chosen venue.
For instance, “cocktail or semi-formal attire will be standard in rehearsal dinners in a high-end restaurant or at the couple's wedding venue,” says Sarah Jobe of Twickenham House and Hall. “With this dress code, guests should wear suits, ties, or mid to full-length dresses. More creativity is available, with pops of color and texture freely allowed.”
And if you’re looking for a cohesive introduction to your wedding weekend, Aly Raddatz of Elevated Events suggests looking to your big day for inspiration. “The dress code for a rehearsal dinner can often tie into the theme of the event,” she explains. “It can give a nod to the theme, or your guests’ attire can be a lively part of the occasion.”
Want to flex your creative muscles and step outside of traditional dress codes? Here are three fun ways to add a one-of-a-kind flair to your pre-wedding celebration.
Photo Credit: Amy Sims Photography
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Pick A Theme You Love
Do you and your partner have a taste for spaghetti Westerns? Or does classic rock-and-roll have a special place in your love story? A rehearsal dinner is the perfect way to capture bolder themes that don’t quite fit into your wedding day vision.
“You can theme the dress code in a different concept from the wedding day, in a way that expresses the two of you,” confirms Sarah Chianese of Mangia and Enjoy!. “For example, Prohibition Era theme, Mardi Gras theme, Vintage Glamour theme, or anything else that makes your heart sing.”
Think of the unique elements that helped your bond develop, whether it’s a shared hobby or a memorable vacation. Then, consider how your guests can dress (or accessorize) to match the theme. You’ll no doubt make some unforgettable memories!
Make It A Colorful Affair
If you prefer a simpler approach to a themed rehearsal dinner, you can set a dress code around specific colors, like your wedding palette.
“Want to add some interest to your rehearsal dinner photos?” poses Brandon Alley of Bunn DJ Company. “Ask your guests to wear something in one of your wedding colors.”
Or, if you want to differentiate from the big day, you can opt for your favorite hues.
“Whether you are going modern or quirky, color tones play a huge part in your overall feel of the party or dinner celebration,” explains Jen Sulak of Weirdo Weddings.
If you select colors for your rehearsal dinner dress code, make sure to communicate with your guests so they can prepare accordingly. “Whether you mail an invitation or send an email, be sure to work in a sample of the color,” Alley recommends.
Photo Credits: Jessica K Feiden Photography
Embrace Your Surroundings
For those planning a destination celebration (or if your hometown is a popular destination), take advantage of the locale and invite guests to find inspiration in the area.
“As destination planners, a lot of our couples choose a theme that captures the essence of the locale they've chosen to host their guests in,” shares Juls Sharpley of Juls Sharpley Events. “When we're in California, our clients sometimes choose coastal, or if we're more inland in wine country, they may again choose a western-inspired dress code.”
In this way, you can show appreciation for your destination without planning an overly-thematic wedding. You can have all the local fun at your rehearsal dinner!
To share the dress code, Sulak encourages couples to use their wedding websites to share details. “This way, everyone has access to up-to-date information, including a detailed dress code,” she says. “If you want, post a color palette and example to help them see your requests!”
As you nail down your rehearsal dinner dress code, be mindful of your guests’ preferred attire. Some people may feel uncomfortable conforming to certain rules, so avoid setting strict guidelines.
“It's important to be inclusive and accommodating to all guests, including those who may not identify with traditional gender roles,” reminds Mary Angelini of Key Moment Films. “Couples can offer guidance or suggestions or, if needed, provide resources for finding gender-neutral or non-traditional wedding attire.”
A dress code ensures your rehearsal dinner feels polished and appropriate, setting the tone for an enjoyable wedding weekend for all. Whatever you choose, have fun and savor the moments you get to share with your closest friends and family!
Photo Credits: Mandee Johnson Photography
Don't get stressed - get Let's Get Rehearsed’s FREE rehearsal dinner guide packed full of everything you need to plan a welcome party, from saving money to celebrating the night before the big day!
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Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and wedding marketing firm OFD Consulting. Ely is a sought-after speaker, adjunct professor in the field of public relations, and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.