Top Picks for a Semi-formal Wedding Dress Code

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Receiving a wedding invitation with the inscription ‘semi-formal’ makes many people happy. The reason is that the comfort level is generally much greater in semi-formal weddings when it comes to the dress code for guests. Semi-formal wedding dress attire looks as good as it feels. Every woman keeps a few semi-formal dresses in her closet. Whether it’s a dance party, a family celebration, or a wedding with a semi-formal theme, you have lots of choices dress wise for these events.

Comprehensive Guide to Dress Semiformal

Semi-formal wedding dress attire is roughly on par with cocktail attire. Short dresses, halter neck dresses, knee-length skirts, and even a black short dress will look flawless for a wedding occasion (not for summer). If it’s summer, look for a more colorful palette, preferably a pastel one. Even men enjoy donning semi-formal menswear because of its versatility in the office as well as at semi-formal weddings.

  • Women should go with a cocktail dress or a chic skirt with a matching top. Light fabric like cotton is preferred and floral print is also ok.

  • Men should keep to a suit and tie. Both light and dark shades are acceptable. Just keep in mind the season and the time of the day when choosing colors.

  • Time and season are key factors in the selection of a semi-formal attire. If it’s a daytime event, look for light fabrics and cool hues. It’s better to adopt a formal look if it’s an evening celebration.

  • Garden weddings or a wedding at a country club should be attended with a ‘daytime semi-formal’ dress code.

  • If it’s an outdoor wedding with a more traditional feel, the hosts should make it clear to the guests that they want them to come in a more comfortable attire. Slightly more formal than what they normally wear at brunches or church would be ideal.

  • For men, slacks and a sports coat or a linen or a seersucker suit would fit the bill and simultaneously be remarkablly comfortable.

Best Semiformal Wedding Dress Code Recommended for Women

Here are some of the best dresses for semi-formal weddings to give you inspiration and guidance.
1

Fit and Flare Cocktail Dress

This is a show-stopping jacquard pastel-hued cocktail dress. This well-structured dress has features like a jewel neck, keyhole back, and slim fit waistline. The floral print only adds to its elegance.

See more details from Nordstrom

2

Silk Gazar Knee Length Dress

Flatter your body in this glitzy and graceful dress. It has a V-neckline, floral ornate waistline, and a flared skirt. The fuchsia color along with the design is so chic and elegant!

See more details from Terijon

3

Tadashi Shoji Sequined Lace Dress

Designed by Tadashi Shoji, it’s the perfect dress for a semi-formal evening affair. The sequined lace dress and illusion bateau neckline is both adorable and the essence of elegance.

See more details from Nordstrom

4

Dot Mesh Black Cocktail Dress

This flawless-fit cocktail dress has a black skirt with an illusion-sleeve bodice. The V-back, black flared skirt, and dotted bodice all add to its classy look.

See more details from Nordstrom

5

Chic Fit and Flare Cocktail Dress

The V-neck, fitted bodice, and circle skirt are accented with a stunning sash that flaunts an elegant bow on the slim fit waist line.

See more details from Nordstrom

6

Lace Jacket Dress

This champagne lace semi-formal combo has a sleeveless bodice. A jacket with a rhinestone brooch closure makes it the perfect choice for an informal celebration.

See more details from David’s Bridal

7

Ivory Lace Midi Dress

An ethereal midi dress with elegant floral lace overlay redefines classy. The sleeveless dress has a fitted bodice with accented detailing.

See more details from Lulu’s

8

Light Grey Strapless Midi Dress

A more daring choice due to its sultry front slit, the open back and off the shoulder style adds to its bold yet classy style.

See more details from Lulu’s

9

Open Back Cocktail Dress

This elegant dress has a sweetheart neckline and a halter bodice covered with stunning Venice lace overlay. The appliqué of velvet flowers accentuates its European look.

See more details from David’s Bridal

10

Black Attire with Side Ruffles

This stunning dress has sheer lace cap sleeves and side ruching to elevate the jersey skirt. An open back gives it a glamorous touch.

See more details from David’s Bridal

11

Off-the-Shoulder Sequined Lace Dress

This short ivory dress has wavy sequined patterns, and the off-the-shoulder style is accented by a deep sweetheart neckline.

See more details from Nordstrom

12

Asymmetrical Ivory Knee Length Dress

This semi-formal wedding outfit has a pleated-detail bodice, a sweetheart neckline, and a shoulder strap with floral detailing. A flowy skirt and sash tie on the back are quite flattering.

See more details from David’s Bridal